Oklahoma Senate
Senator Stanley Advances Critical Legislation to Maintain 988 Mental Health Lifeline
OKLAHOMA CITY— Senator Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, has secured Senate approval for Senate Bill 1369, legislation creating the 9-8-8 Lifeline Revolving Fund to ensure the continued operation of the state’s 988 crisis hotline following the loss of federal funding.
The 988 Lifeline provides immediate support and resources for anyone in crisis, serving as a direct connection to trained professionals who can help individuals experiencing mental health emergencies. On average, 7,000 to 8,000 calls from Oklahomans are received each month, and the hotline has been credited with helping to reduce suicide rates across the state.
“Each of the thousand calls fielded each month represents a life touched and likely saved by 988,” Stanley said. “The 988 Lifeline provides immediate, professional support to Oklahomans in crisis, and I am proud to have advanced this legislation to ensure mechanisms are in place to continue funding for this vital service.”
Stanley stated the 988 Lifeline also reduces the burden on emergency services, including 911 calls, emergency room visits, and inpatient care.
“My experience serving children, veterans, and families has shown me that mental health crises don’t wait, especially for those populations at higher risk,” Stanley added. “Often, people need immediate access to trained professionals rather than an emergency room visit, and this bill ensures that support is available no matter where they are. Senate Bill 1369 ensures the 988 Lifeline remains accessible 24/7 for every Oklahoman in need.”
The measure now moves to the House of Representatives, where it is authored by Rep. Kevin Norwood, R-Owasso.
For more information on the 988 Mental Health Lifeline, visit 988oklahoma.com.
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