Bell, Thanedar, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan 988 Day Resolution

Washington, D.C.-Yesterday, U.S. Representatives Wesley Bell (D-Mo.), Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.), and Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) introduced the bipartisan 988 day resolution to raise awareness of the lifesaving role of the suicide & crisis lifeline. A companion resolution has been introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and John Kennedy (R-La.). The House's 988 Day resolution is part of a broader legislative package highlighting the importance of suicide prevention.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was launched nationwide in July 2022 to provide an easy-to-remember number for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or substance use crises. The hotline has serviced the most vulnerable communities including veterans, LGBTQI+ youth, and non english speaking individuals. By dialing 988, people are connected to trained crisis counselors who provide free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Since its launch, millions of calls, texts, and chats have been answered, making 988 a cornerstone of America's mental health safety net.

"988 has already saved lives, but too many people still don't know it's there when they need it," said Congressman Wesley Bell. "In Missouri and across the country, families are carrying the weight of losing loved ones to suicide. Setting aside a day to lift up 988 is about making sure that in the darkest moments, people know they have somewhere to turn."

"In 1996, I lost my first wife to mental health struggles. That loss left my family devastated in ways words cannot capture," said Congressman Thanedar. "It's why I have made mental health a top priority during my time in Congress. This resolution honors the lifesaving work of 988 and calls for greater outreach so high-risk communities know support is always within reach."

"In the Hudson Valley, like so many communities across the country, families have been devastated by suicide, from young people in our schools to veterans who served our nation. This resolution isn't just symbolic; it's about acknowledging the pain too many families have endured, raising awareness, and strengthening access to mental health support so no one feels they have to suffer in silence. Our neighbors deserve to know they are not alone, and that help is always within reach," said Congressman Mike Lawler.

"Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for our nation's children and young adults, yet the stigma surrounding mental health keeps too many people from getting the help they need," said Senator Booker. "The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 free support across the United States for anyone struggling. I'm proud to stand alongside my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan resolution that recognizes suicide as a public health crisis, raises awareness about the 988 hotline, and recognizes our shared commitment to passing legislation to improve mental health and reduce suicide rates across America."

"In the middle of a historic mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has proven to be a lifesaver for Americans who need help. I'm proud to join Senator Booker in recognizing the seriousness of America's suicide epidemic and the important work being done to prevent these tragedies." said Senator John Kennedy.

The 988 resolution is supported by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide, American National Association of Social Workers, The Jed Foundation.

"Since its launch in 2022, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has connected millions of people and their loved ones with compassionate support during moments of suicidal crisis or mental health or emotional distress. We applaud Rep. Bell, Rep. Thanedar, Rep. Lawler, Sen. Booker, and Sen. Kennedy for introducing a resolution to designate September 8, 2025, as '988 Day'-an annual day of action to raise awareness of the 988 Lifeline and underscore the critical importance of mental health and suicide prevention," said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. "Research shows that most people who call 988 are more likely to feel less depressed, less suicidal, less overwhelmed, and more hopeful after speaking with a trained crisis counselor. Elevating awareness of 988 is essential to ensuring more individuals in crisis know where to turn for help."

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