Kinsey 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline bill approved in Human Services Committee

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    June 7, 2023 | 1:17 PM

HARRISBURG, June 7 – Today, legislation (H.B. 1305) introduced by state Rep. Stephen Kinsey, D-Phila., was voted out of the PA House Human Services Committee.

This bill would establish sustainable funding for Pennsylvania’s 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in line with Gov. Josh Shapiro’s budget proposal. The lifeline was launched in July of 2022 and allows anyone in the U.S. to call, chat or text 988 to receive supports and resources during a suicide, mental health, or substance use crisis. 

Kinsey, who serves as chairman of the PA House Human Services Committee and a long-time mental health advocate, stressed the importance of ensuring the lifeline is sustainably funded.

“The creation of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was important to allow folks in the midst of a mental health crisis an outlet to get the help they need,” Kinsey said. “Now, it’s important that we properly fund this crucial lifeline so it can be a sustainable and reliable source of help.

“As we see a growing need of mental health situations, this lifeline can be the difference of life and death for many Pennsylvanians who are dealing with the mental health crisis,” he continued. “As H.B. 1305 has passed out of the Human Services Committee and heads to the House Floor, I urge all my colleagues to vote in favor of keeping 988 reliable for all Pennsylvanians who need it.”

The proposed legislation would be similar to how communities fund 911 by creating a monthly fee on all wireless devices to ensure these emergency services will not experience any funding gaps.

House Bill 1305 will now head to the full House for future consideration.