Today, Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger issued the following statement in response to an announcement by FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel of a proposal to change how calls to the 9-8-8 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline are routed:
“Expanding our crisis response network has been one of my top priorities for Los Angeles County. 9-8-8 has certainly been one of the critical tools that helps ensure we have a care first response to individuals experiencing mental health crises.
In my role as Chair of the NACo Commission on Mental Health and Well-Being, I prioritized 9-8-8 support, and led advocacy for this at the White House and on Capitol Hill.
However, local government leaders truly needed federal intervention to ensure those calling 9-8-8 are able to connect with a responsive crisis system that is anchored where they live.
I appreciate Congressman Cardenas Senator Padilla, Secretary Becerra and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel for their leadership and dedication to continue evolving 9-8-8. As a result, lives are being saved.”