“Policies like this make a meaningful difference in preventing firearm suicide and should be adopted across the country. They are proof that elected officials can and should take action to address the firearm suicide crisis. But the good news is, lawmakers are not the only people who can work to prevent youth firearm suicide. Everyone — especially parents, grandparents, care providers, mentors, teachers and others in regular contact with youth — can talk about the risks of gun suicide. They can also practice and encourage safe firearm storage. Keeping guns locked, unloaded and separate from ammunition creates a meaningful barrier between suicidal thoughts and action. We all have a role to play in addressing this crisis.”

Read the full piece by Renée Hopkins on Youth Today.