Representatives Bell, Thanedar, and Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Legislation Commemorating 988 Day

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline(link is external)assists people experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or substance use crises

The bipartisan 988 Day resolution raises awareness of the lifesaving role of the suicide & crisis lifeline

A companion bill will be introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senator Cory Booker

Washington, D.C. - Today, Representatives Wesley Bell (D-MO-01), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), and Mike Lawler (R-NY-17) introduced a bipartisan resolution commemorating September 8 as a day to raise awareness of the lifesaving role of the suicide & crisis lifeline(link is external).

A companion resolution will be introduced in the Senate by Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). The House's 988 Day resolution is part of a broader legislative package highlighting the importance of suicide prevention.

"The number 988 is a cornerstone of our nation's mental health safety net, but too many people still don't know it's there to help them on one of the hardest days of their life," said Congressman Bell. "During an ongoing nationwide mental health epidemic that is especially impacting our nation's young people, recognizing 988 Day means making sure that in the hardest of moments, no one in Missouri or anywhere else feels they have to face the darkness alone. Help is always within reach."

"In 1996, I lost my first wife due to her battle with mental health struggles," said Representative Shri Thanedar. "It was a heartbreaking loss for my entire family, and this incident drives my advocacy to create a healthcare system where everyone has access to high-quality mental health care. 988 is an incredible resource that saves lives every day, and I am proud to co-lead this resolution that highlights their crucial work. Americans should know that there is no shame in seeking help, suicide is preventable, and you can call 988 at any time."

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 served 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.

"The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has become an essential resource for millions of Americans and is helping people through some of the darkest moments of their lives," said Senator Booker. "I'm proud to lead this bipartisan Senate resolution to raise awareness of this lifesaving service and make sure more people know that help is available when they need it. We must continue investing in mental health care and crisis services so that no one has to face a moment of crisis alone."

"988 Day is an opportunity to recognize the vital role the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline plays in connecting people to trained counselors, local resources, and compassionate, judgment-free support, while reminding everyone that they are never alone and that help is available," said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP)."The Lifeline's remarkable growth since the nationwide launch of 988 in 2022, from 4.8 million contacts in 2023 to 7.8 million contacts in 2025, underscores the essential role 988 now plays in our nation's mental health and suicide prevention system. AFSP commends Representatives Bell, Thanedar, Lawler, and Senator Booker for their leadership in introducing this resolution honoring 988 Day and raising awareness of this lifesaving resource."

The 988 Day resolution text can be found HERE.