Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs signed House Bill 2665, which gives prosecutors authority to charge adults who use targeted online messages to advise or encourage a minor to die by suicide, knowing the minor intends to do so.
The bill, introduced by Rep. Pam Carter, R-Scottsdale, is named Cade’s Law in honor of 16-year-old Cade Keller, according to a press release.
“Teen suicide is a crisis, and we cannot ignore it,” said Carter, who represents Legislative District 4, in the release “Cade Keller was only 16. He loved welding and had plans to attend Mesa Community College. Then his life was cut short. Cade posted online that he planned to take his life. People saw it. No one called 911. No one got an adult. Cade died. That is the nightmare every parent fears, and it is happening to too many families. Cade’s Law makes this a crime. If you knowingly use direct messages to advise or encourage a minor to die by suicide, you will be prosecuted. If you see warning signs, do not wait. Make the call. Get help. Step in.”
