Federal bill targets youth suicide prevention through school-based grants

What does this do?

HR 8989 directs the Department of Health and Human Services to create and fund demonstration programs testing evidence-based suicide prevention strategies for children and teenagers. Grants would go to states, school districts, nonprofits, tribal organizations, and colleges. The government would track outcomes including suicide attempts, school attendance, grades, and student well-being, and report results to Congress annually.

Who does it affect?

The bill most directly affects school-age children and teenagers nationwide, along with the schools, community organizations, and health systems that serve them. School staff, mental health professionals, and youth mental health researchers would also be involved.

Why does it matter?

Programs would be required to coordinate with local education and public health agencies, and funding would be prioritized for approaches with the strongest scientific evidence. Some funding would also be directed toward newer, innovative approaches that are being formally evaluated.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• Grants to states, districts, nonprofits
• Funding authorized 2027–2032
• Tribal orgs and colleges eligible