Bill > HB564

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for promoting the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline in Pennsylvania, requiring the Department of Human Services to implement a public education campaign within 180 days of the bill's effective date. The campaign aims to increase public awareness about mental health crisis support, encourage the use of 988 as an alternative to 911, and provide information about suicide prevention. The department must consult with various stakeholders, including drug and alcohol programs, crisis call centers, advocacy groups, mental health professionals, and individuals with lived experiences of mental health crises. The campaign must develop multilingual, mobile-friendly materials that effectively communicate with diverse populations, which will be made available on the department's website. Additionally, the bill mandates two detailed reports to legislative committees: an initial report within 180 days and an updated report one year later. These reports must include comprehensive information about 988 lifeline operations, call volumes, answer rates, services provided, and the impact of awareness initiatives. The campaign is subject to available funding and must comply with the Taxpayer-Funded Advertising Transparency Act. The ultimate goal is to improve mental health crisis response and support for Pennsylvanians by increasing understanding and utilization of the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=564