House OKs Probst bill to increase awareness of 988 hotline
Rep. Tarah Probst October 23, 2024 | 1:07 PM
HARRISBURG, Oct. 23 – The state House of Representatives today passed legislation that would promote increased awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, according to prime sponsor Rep. Tarah Probst.
“Many people experiencing a mental health crisis may not be aware of the critical resource available to them by dialing 988 or may not feel comfortable accessing it. We should do everything we can to make sure people know that help is available 24 hours a day,” said Probst, D-Monroe Pike.
“Law enforcement officers often respond to 911 calls from people experiencing a mental health crisis. Greater awareness of 988 would redirect crisis calls away from 911 and toward appropriate mental health resources and help.”
House Bill 2533 would create a public education campaign within the PA Department of Human Services to increase public understanding and engagement with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Probst said the public education campaign would include advertising in multiple languages to meet the diverse community needs of Pennsylvania residents. In addition, the campaign would provide information about the warning signs of suicide and preventative measures.
The department would need to file an annual report outlining its efforts to increase awareness.
If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis, please call 988. The hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.