Expand the impact of the 988 Lifeline – Advocate for Impact

Expand the impact of the 988 Lifeline – Advocate…

July marks one year since the launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the nationwide number established to help people in a mental health, substance use, or suicide crisis. In just one year, nearly 5 million people have reached out to 988 for support.

988 is already making an impact in our communities and saving lives, but there’s more work to be done to ensure everyone can get the help they need in a crisis. Congressmen Tony Cárdenas (D-CA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) have reintroduced bipartisan legislation to ensure that our communities have the resources necessary to fully implement 988. Please take 30 seconds to urge your member of Congress to support this vital legislation today!

NAMI’s Advocacy Center

Find your Legislator HERE

The 988 Implementation Act (H.R. 4851) would:

Fund local 988 call centers to ensure 24/7 access for anyone who needs help
Support expansion of mobile crisis teams to help communities provide an in-person mental health crisis response instead of relying on law enforcement to respond
Expand awareness of 988 through awareness campaigns
Provide funding to build crisis centers, making sure people have a safe place to go in a crisis
Fund services for underserved populations to make sure people receive equitable, quality care that is inclusive
Ensure people have access to crisis care by requiring that all health insurance plans cover crisis services and support crisis workforce development.

The 988 Implementation Act is critical legislation that will help us fully realize the potential of 988 to be the life-saving resource that people in crisis need.

But we need your voice to make it a reality. Reach out to your member of Congress today and ask that they cosponsor this vital piece of legislation.

Want some tips on how to communicate with your elected official? Find them HERE.