32.1-73.7 - Department to be lead agency for youth suicide prevention. - Virginia Statutes

§ 32.1-73.7. Department to be lead agency for youth suicide prevention.

With such funds as may be appropriated for this purpose, the Department, inconsultation with the Department of Education, the Department of BehavioralHealth and Developmental Services, community services boards and behavioralhealth authorities, and local departments of health, shall have the leadresponsibility for the youth suicide prevention program within theCommonwealth. This responsibility includes coordination of the activities ofthe agencies of the Commonwealth pertaining to youth suicide prevention inorder to develop and carry out comprehensive youth suicide preventionstrategies addressing public awareness, the promotion of health development,early identification, intervention and treatment, and support to survivors.The strategies shall be targeted to the specific needs of children andadolescents. The Department shall cooperate with federal, state and localagencies, private and public agencies, survivor groups and other interestedpersons in order to prevent youth suicide within the Commonwealth.

The provisions of this section shall not limit the powers and duties of otherstate agencies.

(2001, cc. 275, 291; 2003, c. 885; 2005, cc. 336, 434; 2009, cc. 813, 840.)