President Trump Signs Law Designating 9-8-8 as Universal Number for National Suicide Hotline

On Saturday, President Trump signed a bipartisan bill into law that will make ‘9-8-8’ the universal telephone number to reach the national suicide prevention hotline, beginning in 2022. Currently, the hotline is accessible by the 10-digit number, 1-800-273-8255 (TALK).

S.2661, The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020, which passed the House of Representatives last month after approval from the Senate and the Federal Communications Commission, will allow those seeking help to dial the three-digit number and be directed to the hotline.

The bill authorizes states to collect fees aimed at ensuring that local crisis centers will be able to support increased volume, and it also directs government health agencies to submit a report to Congress detailing strategies to improve support services for LGBTQ youth, minorities, and individuals in rural counties, who are at higher risk for suicide.

Suicidal ideation is up among young people since last year, with as many as one in four people ages 18 through 24 having seriously considered suicide in the 30 days preceding a survey released in August by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC also reported that 11% of adults surveyed had seriously considered suicide in the past 30 days before they completed the survey. Among those identifying as Black or Hispanic, the numbers were worse: 19% of Hispanics reported suicidal ideation and 15% of Black Americans reported suicidal thoughts.

If you would like to become involved in ACA’s advocacy efforts and create a pathway for greater access to mental health services for those in need, please contact the ACA Government Affairs and Public Policy department at advocacy@counseling.org.