9-8-8 Suicide Hotline Signed into Federal Law

On Monday, October 19, 2020, the President of the United States signed S. 2661, the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act, which was introduced by U.S. Senators Cory Gardner (R-CO), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jerry Moran (R-KS), and Jack Reed (D-RI). This bipartisan legislation designates 9-8-8 as the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline, and companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by U.S. Representatives Chris Stewart (R-UT) and Seth Moulton (D-MA).

“CBHC appreciates the relentless effort it took to pass The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act. A dedicated three-digit-number for suicide prevention has been a goal of advocates for years, but it is more important than ever now considering the increased demand for behavioral health services that providers are seeing in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, where more and more people are experiencing isolation, depression, anxiety, and increased substance use. We extend our sincere thanks to Senator Cory Gardner for leading the charge to pass this historic legislation and we look forward to continued work together to ensure access to high quality behavioral health services and supports,” said Frank Cornelia, Deputy Director of the Colorado Behavioral Healthcare Council.

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