Federal Law Enacted to Strengthen 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin’s (R-OK), 9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act has been signed into law through the SUPPORT for Patients and Communications Reauthorization Act of 2025.
Congress Approves New Protections for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Line
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin’s (R-OK) 9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act has been signed into law as part of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communications Reauthorization Act of 2025.
Mullin noted that the law represents an important step in strengthening cybersecurity protections for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. He emphasized that suicide remains a profound tragedy and that safeguarding the Lifeline is essential to ensuring people in crisis can access timely, reliable support. He also stressed that, while the bill has now been enacted, efforts to prevent suicide and expand public awareness must continue.
Mullin led the bipartisan measure with Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA). The law requires coordination between the Lifeline and the Chief Information Security Officer at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to prevent cyberattacks and address known vulnerabilities. It also mandates that the Lifeline’s network administrator report cybersecurity incidents or vulnerabilities to the federal government within 24 hours. Additionally, the legislation directs the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study assessing cybersecurity risks within the 988 system.
Anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can dial 9-8-8 for free, confidential help 24/7 or visit 988lifeline.org/chat to connect online.
Oklahoma is the first state to feature the national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on a state license plate. The public may order the plate now for $40, a fee which must be renewed annually. More than half of the fee, $25, will go to fund suicide prevention efforts coordinated by the Alliance of Mental Health Providers of Oklahoma in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health.