WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) The LGBTQ+ section of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline shut down Thursday following a directive from the Trump administration, drawing bipartisan criticism from lawmakers and mental health advocates who warn the move endangers lives.
The specialized LGBTQ+ line, launched in 2022, offered targeted support for individuals in crisis and had fielded more than 1.2 million calls, texts, and chats since its debut.
“There’s more than a million of those moments where someone thought it would be better if they weren’t here, and they had someone to call,” said Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kan.
The Trump administration eliminated resources for diversity, equity and inclusion programs, including this crisis line.
“It’s been very successful,” said Rep. Paul Tonko, D-N.Y., “And President Trump has determined to put politics ahead of care, ahead of saving lives.”
According to The Trevor Project, about 40% of LGBTQ youth seriously considered suicide in the past year. Those with access to affirming mental health services like the 988 line were significantly less likely to attempt it.
Some Republicans, like Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., are urging the Department of Health and Human Services to restore the LGBTQ+ line.
“To me, this is about saving lives,” said Lawler. “It is about preventing suicide. And it’s something all of us as Americans should be unified on.”
Lawmakers say the shutdown not only strips away critical mental health support but also sends a harmful message to vulnerable communities.
“Whether you are part of the LGBTQ community, whether someone in your family is or you have friends that are, every single one of us should be concerned about that,” Davids said.
Lawmakers have sent a letter urging HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to immediately reverse the shutdown. As of now, the agency has not announced any changes.
