Pennsylvania House Passes Bill to Fund Suicide, Lifeline in Crisis

Pennsylvania (WTAJ) – A bill establishing funding for suicide and critical lifelines passed the House on Wednesday.

law, HB1305passed the Pennsylvania House of Representatives on Wednesday, June 14. The bill was introduced on June 1 by Rep. Stephen Kinsey (D-Philadelphia). Kinsley said it is up to each state to ensure that crisis response services receive adequate funding to protect and support them. those who need it.

Kinsey said the bill would establish sustainable funding for Pennsylvania’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, in line with Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal. This lifeline will launch in his July 2022, allowing anyone in the United States to call, chat, or text 988 to send his message for support and resources during suicide, mental health, and substance use crises. can now receive

“With the ongoing mental health crisis affecting Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth, 988 such vital resources are sustainably funded and credible to help those struggling with mental health. It’s important to make sure that ,” Kinsey said. “Today we have taken steps to strengthen and solidify this lifeline that can help so many. I urge you to sign and enact it.”

The proposed bill would be similar to how communities fund 911 by setting a monthly fee for all wireless devices to ensure communities don’t run out of money for emergency services. .

read Click here for Kinsey’s memo to lawmakers.