State Public Policy
State Public Policy
Explore state-level policy resources focused on funding and implementing the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to strengthen state crisis response systems nationwide.
Get to Know the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
General Information
Learn about the reach, role, and effectiveness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in supporting people during moments of crisis.
Sustainable Funding
Explore how states are funding the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and strengthening sustainable behavioral health crisis response.
Public Awareness
Learn how states and communities can expand awareness and understanding of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and when to use it.
New Report on State Funding for 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Read Vibrant’s new report on state-level funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, featuring a series of state “postcards” outlining 2025 appropriations, funding sources, and revenues, with highlights on states that have enacted 988 telecom fees and recurring appropriations to support sustainable funding.
To view previous reports, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find what is happening in my state?
Subscribing to Vibrant’s Public Policy newsletter is a great way to start tracking updates on state legislation, funding, and other policy developments related to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline! During legislative session, the newsletter includes a month-by-month report of all legislation Vibrant’s public policy team is tracking.
You can also visit your state legislature’s website to search for introduced legislation, hearings, and other legislative activity. For a national view of state activity, NAMI’s 988 Crisis Response State Legislation Map tracks legislation and policy developments related to 988 and crisis response across the country.
How do I best use Vibrant's public policy resources?
Vibrant’s public policy resources are designed for crisis centers, mental health advocates, community partners, and members of the public to better understand and communicate about the nation’s evolving behavioral health crisis system. Resources include fact sheets, policy one-pagers, state funding and appropriations information, legislative tracking, and tools for engaging policymakers on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and crisis response services.
Use these materials to learn more about emerging policy issues, share reliable information with your community, and support conversations with policymakers and other stakeholders.
Are there 988 Lifeline print materials that I can order?
Yes. 988 Lifeline posters, wallet cards, stickers, and other print materials can be ordered for free through the SAMHSA store. Digital and print-ready materials are also available through SAMHSA’s 988 Partner Toolkit. All orders must be placed via the SAMHSA store – Vibrant does not take orders or ship print materials directly.
For bulk orders or questions about an existing order, contact [email protected].
How do I find and contact my elected officials?
Visit Vibrant’s Action Center and enter your address to find your state and federal legislators and access their contact information. You can also find elected officials through official congressional and state legislative websites.
To begin engaging with policymakers, consider sending an introductory email, making a phone call, requesting an in-person or virtual meeting, or sharing relevant policy information and personal experiences. You may also have opportunities to provide public testimony when legislation is being considered.
For additional guidance, visit the Action Center and download Vibrant’s Policy Engagement Toolkit & Templates, which includes practical tips and customizable materials for communicating with legislators and policymakers.
How can I raise awareness for the 988 Lifeline?
There are many ways individuals, organizations, and communities can help more people understand when and how to use the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Consider sharing 988 information on social media, displaying materials in schools and community spaces, incorporating 988 into local events and awareness campaigns, or writing an op-ed or letter to the editor to help educate your community about 988 and crisis services. Vibrant’s awareness resources also highlight opportunities such as public education campaigns, promoting 988 in transit and other public spaces, and sharing information with students and staff.
SAMHSA’s 988 Partner Toolkit offers ready-to-use social media graphics, fact sheets, videos, branding materials, and other resources to help spread the word. You can also participate in 988 Day on September 8, an annual Day of Action with downloadable materials and ideas for schools, workplaces, faith communities, local organizations, and individuals.
Learn How to Take Action
Vibrant’s Public Policy Action Center has all the resources you need to begin lifting your voice in the public sphere. The Action Center includes an advocacy toolkit, a tool to find your legislators, public policy information, and templates to help you get started.
