Congresswoman Pettersen Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Boost 988 Crisis Helpline Awareness
Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) has introduced bipartisan legislation, the Public Transit Mental Health Awareness Act, aimed at increasing public awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Co-sponsored by Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), the bill proposes placing information about the helpline in public transit vehicles, stations, and facilities. This initiative seeks to reach millions of Americans daily, providing them with access to a vital mental health resource. The legislation is supported by several organizations, including the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the American Psychiatric Association, and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) reported an 11% decrease in Colorado's youth suicide rate following the 988 helpline's launch in 2022, highlighting its effectiveness. Congresswoman Pettersen shared her personal motivation, having lost her brother to suicide over 15 years ago, emphasizing the need to connect ind... 
