The National Suicide Hotline Designation Act was passed unanimously in the Senate. The bill now goes to the House.
Currently, the hotline is accessible by the 10-digit number, 1-800-273-8255 (TALK).
If passed and signed by President Donald Trump, the legislation would allow an individual seeking help to dial 9-8-8 and be directed to the hotline.
The bill would allow states to collect fees aimed at ensuring local crisis centers will be able to support increased call volume and it would direct government health agencies to submit a report to Congress detailing strategies to improve support services.
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