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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | December 29, 2020 11:11 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Brian Kirkland |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Youth Violence as a Public Health Epidemic |
| The physical and mental scars associated with violence, especially violence experienced or perpetrated by youths, can affect a person’s well-being for years. Although it has decreased in recent years, youth violence continues to impact our most vulnerable populations, influencing their future choices, experiences, and contributions to society. Each year, youth homicides and nonfatal physical assault-related injuries result in more than $20 billion in combined medical and lost productivity costs. My legislation would identify youth violence as a persistent problem in our communities and would also seek to encourage the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) to establish a statewide trauma-informed educational system. Although it is clear that Pennsylvania has made some measurable strides in addressing the issues of youth violence and the lack of an existing statewide trauma-informed educational framework, we must continue to be vigilant and look out for the well-being of our communities by passing legislation that aims to end this terrible epidemic and create a bright future for all. Thank you for joining me in recognizing the continuing effects of youth violence on our Commonwealth. |
Introduced as HR131