State Reps. Beth Griffin and Jon Hoadley today introduced a bipartisan legislative plan that will address suicide at the local level while aiming to prevent such tragedies in the future.

A proposal from Hoadley (D-Kalamazoo) creates the Suicide Fatality Review Act, allowing Michigan counties to establish a review task force. The wide-ranging, appointed panels will include medical examiners, members of local law enforcement, mental health experts, those who have been directly impacted by suicide and other parties.

There were 1,364 reported suicide deaths in Michigan in 2018, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. It was the second-leading cause of death in the state for individuals aged 15-34. On average, one person died of suicide in Michigan every seven hours.

“This legislation is another tool in the toolbox to reduce suicide,” Hoadley said. “By allowing local health professionals, public safety officers and experts related to suicide to convene quickly after a suicide, local experts may be able to spot trends and patterns – getting ahead of future tragedy.”

Griffin’s bill exempts the local panels from Open Meetings Act laws.

“Due to the sensitive information being discussed in these meetings, it’s appropriate to keep them private,” said Griffin (R-Mattawan). “There will likely be conversations had with individuals who have lost loved ones and they will be sharing those emotions or experiences with experts who are tasked with curbing this epidemic in our state. That work must be done confidentially to ensure positive strides are made and people in our communities can get the help they need.

This is something that touches many people – whether it be our friends, family members, co-workers or neighbors. It’s imperative we work to provide assistance locally and build a better plan of attack.”

House Bills 4414-15 have been referred to the House Health Policy Committee for consideration.