KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) More than 1,600 people have signed an online petition urging New Hampshire lawmakers to create “Nevaeh’s Law,” proposed legislation aimed at holding individuals accountable when bullying contributes to a child’s suicide.

The Change.org petition, which had gathered 1,642 signatures within days of its launch, was started by the mother of a 13-year-old Keene Middle School student who died in 2024 after what her family described as relentless bullying.

Supporters of the proposal are calling for stronger legal consequences when bullying is found to have contributed to a suicide, along with enhanced reporting requirements, counseling services, and prevention efforts in schools.

According to the petition, Nevaeh’s Law would seek to address what advocates describe as gaps in current laws and school policies by creating greater accountability and ensuring schools respond more effectively to reports of bullying.

The effort comes nearly two years after Nevaeh’s death sparked an outpouring of grief across the Monadnock Region and renewed conversations about bullying, mental health, and student safety.

In September 2024, hundreds of community members gathered in Central Square for a vigil honoring the young student. Attendees carried signs reading “Be Kind, Save Lives,” signed a community banner, and called for stronger action to address bullying in schools.

At the time, speakers emphasized the emotional toll bullying can have on children and urged parents, educators, and community members to work together to create safer environments for students.

The petition’s supporters say Nevaeh’s Law would help prevent similar tragedies by strengthening protections for students and ensuring schools have clear procedures for addressing bullying before situations escalate.

The campaign also reflects a broader national conversation about bullying, cyberbullying, youth mental health, and whether existing laws provide sufficient protections for children and families.

As of this week, the petition continues to gain signatures from supporters across New Hampshire and beyond.

The petition can be found on Change.org under the title “Create Nevaeh’s Law to Address Bullycide.”

Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

The petition can be found at https://change.org/p/create-nevaeh-s-law-to-address-bullycide.