S5082

The New York State Senate passed legislation establishing a Latina suicide prevention task force on Tuesday, with Sen. Fernandez citing alarming statistics showing that one out of seven teenage Latinas attempts suicide—a rate higher than any other teenage ethnic group nationwide. The bill, S5082, passed 61-0 on a roll call vote. Fernandez, the bill's sponsor, told her colleagues that suicide among Latina teens has reached epidemic levels in New York City, with nearly one-third of young Latinas reporting struggles with depression. She attributed the crisis to unique pressures facing young Latinas, including family responsibilities, cultural expectations to honor family sacrifice and legacy, and stigma surrounding mental health treatment. Fernandez emphasized that many young Latinas, particularly first-generation immigrants, shoulder adult responsibilities from a young age—translating, managing finances, and providing childcare—while simultaneously attending school and working. The task force will assemble experts from across the state to research the issue and direct prevention efforts to areas of greatest need. Fernandez noted the task force would benefit all young women of color facing similar struggles. The bill takes effect 60 days after becoming law.