R.I. law aims to prevent suicides at colleges

Providence (AP) — Rhode Island is the latest state to require public colleges to do more to prevent suicides.

Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo signed a measure into law this month that requires public colleges and universities to establish a plan for promptly addressing students’ mental health needs. The new law discourages relying solely on off-campus services.

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention says 11 states now have a law addressing suicide prevention in higher education.

The University of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College and Community College of Rhode Island don’t appear to have suicide prevention policies that meet the new requirement. They do offer counseling and mental health services and support the state’s efforts.

URI told lawmakers it was well-positioned to implement the provisions of the legislation and it has resources in place and a system to respond if there’s a concern with a student. CCRI said it’s currently working on a formal policy on suicide prevention.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said in June that suicide rates have been rising in nearly every state.

In Rhode Island, the rate rose about 34 percent from 1999 to 2016, according to the data.

The schools must present their plans, along with any new policies and training being added, to legislative leaders and the Rhode Island Council on Postsecondary Education by Jan. 1.