Experiencing a crisis? Call 911, 988, 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or text “Jason” to 741741.

Professional Development Series: Louisiana

HB 719, also known as The Jason Flatt Act, was introduced by Representative Thomas G. Carmody, Jr. at the beginning of the 2008 legislative session.

The Jason Flatt Act of Louisiana
HB 719
Act 219
Effective June 16, 2008

Governor Bobby Jindal signed HB 719 into law on June 16, 2008. Upon his signature, Louisiana became the second state to pass the Jason Flatt Act. This legislation requires mandatory youth suicide awareness and prevention training for school personnel.

Major components of the legislation are:

  1. Requires in-service training in suicide prevention for all public school teachers, school counselors and principals, and as determined by the board, other school administrators for whom training is deemed beneficial.
  2. Two hours of in-service training in suicide prevention is required annually beginning with the 2008-2009 school year.
  3. The State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education will develop, adopt guidelines and identify suitable suicide prevention materials for the training..
  4. Self-review of suitable materials is permitted.

Each of The Jason Foundation Staff Development Modules has been developed to meet a two-hour continuing education requirement for suicide awareness and prevention program. Before completing any suicide awareness training program, please check with your State Board of Education, State Teacher Certification Board or school superintendent to determine that the program meets the requirements for your State.

You will be eligible to receive your certificate once all chapters of a module have been viewed and you have successfully completed the quiz that follows.

National Community Affiliates
Acadia Health
HCA
Lifepoint Behavioral Health
Signature Healthcare Services
National Awareness Affiliates
AFCA
Attorneys General
NOCAD