The 9-8-8 Implementation Act of 2023 aims to improve access to mental health and suicide crisis services. It establishes new programs and funding to support crisis call centers and the 9-8-8 hotline, which provides callers with mental health resources. The bill also requires insurance plans to cover crisis response services.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
The 9-8-8 Implementation Act of 2023 aims to improve access to mental health and suicide crisis services. It establishes new programs and funding to support crisis call centers and the 9-8-8 hotline, which provides callers with mental health resources. The bill also requires insurance plans to cover crisis response services.
Last updated: 12/30/2025
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><strong>9-8-8 Implementation Act of 2023</strong></p><p>This bill modifies programs and activities that support access to behavioral health services, with a focus on crisis services and the 9-8-8 telecommunication system that provides callers with mental health or suicide crisis support and resources.</p><p>For example, the bill establishes a national suicide prevention media campaign and grant programs to support crisis call centers and the behavioral health workforce. It also requires the Department of Health and Human Services to convene a panel to develop recommendations for 9-1-1 dispatchers on how respond to callers experiencing behavioral health crises, including with respect to utilizing the 9-8-8 system.</p><p>The bill also expands coverage under Medicare, Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), private insurance, and insurance programs for members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and federal employees to include crisis response services.</p>
Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Establishes a national suicide prevention media campaign and grant programs to support crisis call centers and the behavioral health workforce
Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to develop recommendations for 9-1-1 dispatchers on responding to callers experiencing behavioral health crises
Expands coverage under Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, private insurance, and insurance for members of the Armed Forces, veterans, and federal employees to include crisis response services
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
This bill would directly impact individuals experiencing mental health or suicidal crises, as well as their families and communities. It would improve access to crisis resources and ensure insurance coverage for these critical services, making it easier for people to get the help they need. This could lead to better outcomes and fewer tragedies related to mental health emergencies.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Health
Related Subjects
Advisory bodies
Child health
Community life and organization
Congressional oversight
Drug, alcohol, tobacco use
Emergency communications systems
Emergency medical services and trauma care
Employment and training programs
First responders and emergency personnel
Government employee pay, benefits, personnel management
+9 more
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
4851, 119th Congress (2025). "PROVE Act". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-4851
