AFSP Advocates Push for Suicide Prevention Funding in Capitol Hill Fly-In
Event summary
- 17 AFSP Volunteer Advocates from 14 states will lobby Congress for suicide prevention funding and legislation from September 16-18.
- Key funding priorities include $549.6M for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and $38M for CDC's Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program.
- Legislative priorities include the Barriers to Suicide Act (H.R. 3505) and the Saving Our Veterans Lives Act (H.R.1987/S. 926).
- AFSP and The Jed Foundation plan to merge, creating the nation's largest nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention.
The big picture
The AFSP's Capitol Hill Fly-In underscores the growing emphasis on federal funding and legislative action for suicide prevention. With rising suicide rates in several states, the push for increased investment in programs like the 988 Lifeline and CDC's Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program reflects a broader trend toward prioritizing mental health initiatives. The planned merger with The Jed Foundation further amplifies the organization's capacity to address this critical public health issue.
What we're watching
- Funding Allocation
- Whether Congress will approve the requested funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and CDC's Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Program.
- Legislative Progress
- The pace at which key bills like the Barriers to Suicide Act and Saving Our Veterans Lives Act advance through Congress.
- Merger Integration
- How the AFSP and The Jed Foundation merger will impact the scale and reach of suicide prevention efforts.