Bill Text: VA HB853 | 2012 | Regular Session | Chaptered

Virginia House Bill 853 (Prior Session Legislation)

Bill Title: Suicidal students; higher educational institutions shall develop policies addressing.

Spectrum: Bipartisan Bill

Status: (Passed) 2012-04-09 - Governor: Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0697) [HB853 Detail]

Download: Virginia-2012-HB853-Chaptered.html

CHAPTER 697 An Act to amend and reenact §23-9.2:8 of the Code of Virginia, relating to policies addressing suicidal students. [H 853] Approved April 9, 2012

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That § 23-9.2:8 of the Code of Virginia is amended and reenacted as follows:

§23-9.2:8. Policies addressing suicidal students.

The governing boards of each public institution of higher education shall develop and implement policies that advise students, faculty, and staff, including residence hall staff, of the proper procedures for identifying and addressing the needs of students exhibiting suicidal tendencies or behavior and provide for training, where appropriate. The policies shall ensure that no student is penalized or expelled solely for attempting to commit suicide, or seeking mental health treatment for suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Nothing in this section shall preclude any public institution of higher education from establishing policies and procedures for appropriately dealing with students who are a danger to themselves, or to others, and whose behavior is disruptive to the academic community.