Kennedy, Booker introduce bipartisan resolution to raise awareness of 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

WASHINGTON - Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) joined Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) in introducing a resolution to raise awareness of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and observe 988 Day on September 8, 2025.

Suicide was the second-leading cause of death in the U.S. for people aged 10 to 34 in 2023, responsible for about one death every 11 minutes.

The 988 Lifeline connects individuals in need of help to a national network of more than 200 state- and locally funded crisis centers available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Since its launch, the 988 Lifeline has routed nearly 18 million contacts and, according to a 2025 study, 98% of callers reported that the lifeline was helpful.

"In the middle of a historic mental health crisis, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has proven to be a lifesaver for Americans who need help. I'm proud to join Senator Booker in recognizing the seriousness of America's suicide epidemic and the important work being done to prevent these tragedies," said Kennedy.

"Suicide is one of the leading causes of death for our nation's children and young adults, yet the stigma surrounding mental health keeps too many people from getting the help they need. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 free support across the United States for anyone struggling. I'm proud to stand alongside my colleagues to introduce this bipartisan resolution that recognizes suicide as a public health crisis, raises awareness about the 988 hotline, and recognizes our shared commitment to passing legislation to improve mental health and reduce suicide rates across America," said Booker.

Reps. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.), Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) and Shri Thanedar (D-Mich.) introduced the companion resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives. The companion resolution is part of a larger package highlighting the importance of suicide prevention.

"In the Hudson Valley, like so many communities across the country, families have been devastated by suicide, from young people in our schools to veterans who served our nation. This resolution isn't just symbolic; it's about acknowledging the pain too many families have endured, raising awareness, and strengthening access to mental health support so no one feels they have to suffer in silence. Our neighbors deserve to know they are not alone, and that help is always within reach," said Lawler.

"988 has already saved lives, but too many people still don't know it's there when they need it. In Missouri and across the country, families are carrying the weight of losing loved ones to suicide. Setting aside a day to lift up 988 is about making sure that in the darkest moments, people know they have somewhere to turn," said Bell.

"In 1996, I lost my first wife to mental health struggles. That loss left my family devastated in ways words cannot capture. It's why I have made mental health a top priority during my time in Congress. This resolution honors the lifesaving work of 988 and calls for greater outreach so high-risk communities know support is always within reach," said Thanedar.

Full text of the resolution is available here.