HR 878: The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; commend

House Resolution 878

By: Representatives Wade of the 9th, Silcox of the 53rd, Clifton of the 131st, Willis of the 55th, Chastain of the 7th, and others

A RESOLUTION

Commending the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, behavioral health conditions, including mental and substance use disorders, are critical public health issues, and 988 was established to improve access to crisis services in response to the country's growing suicide and mental health-related crisis care needs; and

WHEREAS, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a direct, national three-digit number that connects individuals with suicide prevention and mental health crisis resources, which are distinct from the public safety purposes of 911; and

WHEREAS, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides crucial support for people in distress, reducing the burden on emergency rooms and law enforcement; and

WHEREAS, 988 calls, texts, and chats in the State of Georgia are answered by the Georgia Crisis and Access Line (GCAL) 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year; and

WHEREAS, this vital service has the potential to save lives and foster healthier communities by reducing stigma, promoting help-seeking behavior, and ensuring that people in crisis receive timely and appropriate care; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable mental health resource be appropriately honored during this special time.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for its outstanding service on behalf of citizens in need and express best wishes for continued success. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the public and the press.