By Bob Katzen

Would require that newly printed student ID cards for public school students in grades 6-12 and students in public colleges, include the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline phone numbers and text message numbers. The line directs all callers to trained call takers who are available to provide free, confidential emotional support for those in crisis.

The measure allows schools that have a supply of unissued student identification cards that do not comply with this new requirement, to issue the old student identification cards to students until the remaining supply is depleted.

In 2024, the House and Senate approved different versions of the bill, but the legislative session ended before the two sides could agree on a version.

“We must ensure that every student has the information and access they need to receive critical support and resources,” said House sponsor Rep. Jack Lewis (D-Framingham). “Reaching out for help can be difficult, and finding the right information isn’t always easy. That’s why this bill is so important. Nineteen other states have already passed similar legislation, and I’m hopeful that Massachusetts will be next in ensuring every student has access to the life-saving support of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline right on their student ID.”

“Suicide is a leading cause of death for people of all ages in the United States, and young people are particularly at risk,” said Senate sponsor Sen. Jo Comerford (D-Northampton). “According to a study published by the National Center for Health Statistics at the end of 2022, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Americans aged 15-24, representing a 56 percent increase from the previous decade. Massachusetts’ most recent Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that, in 2021, only 11.3 percent of students asked for help from a doctor, counselor or hotline before their suicide attempt. That’s well-below the (already low) 24.3 percent of students who asked for help in 2019.”