"Madison Holleran Proper Reporting Act"; requires institutions of higher education to post information on student suicides and attempted suicides on website.
Impact
The passing of A2636 would significantly alter the accountability measures for higher education institutions regarding mental health issues. As per the '2017 New Jersey Youth Suicide Report,' suicide ranks as the third leading cause of death among youth aged 10-24 in New Jersey. Therefore, the legislation aims to encourage schools to take mental health seriously and recognize the alarming trends in student suicides. This act could not only assist in identifying and mitigating risk factors but also enhance support systems for students through increased awareness.
Summary
Assembly Bill A2636, titled the 'Madison Holleran Proper Reporting Act,' is designed to require institutions of higher education in New Jersey to disclose information regarding student suicides and attempted suicides. The bill mandates that starting from the 2019-2020 academic year, these institutions must annually publish the total number of enrolled students who committed or attempted suicide, thereby promoting transparency and awareness around a critical mental health issue affecting the youth. The bill is named after Madison Holleran, a young athlete who tragically took her own life while attending the University of Pennsylvania, which serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health initiatives in educational environments.
Contention
Debate surrounding A2636 may arise regarding privacy concerns and the implications of publicly disclosing sensitive information about students. While advocates argue the bill is essential for mental health awareness, some may view such reporting as intrusive or potentially harmful to the reputations of universities. Opponents could raise questions about how the data will be used and whether it could discourage students from seeking help. Nevertheless, supporters believe that transparency may ultimately foster a healthier campus environment, where mental health is openly discussed and prioritized.
Carry Over
"Madison Holleran Proper Reporting Act"; requires institutions of higher education to post information on student suicides and attempted suicides on website.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.