Washington one of few states to fund new suicide hotline
(KATU) — In just six months a new universal suicide hotline goes live across the country, and so far, only a handful of states have passed legislation that will fund and staff it.
Washington is one of four states that have passed laws to raise funds through a telecom fee. Since September 2021, residents have been paying 24 cents a month. In January 2023, it will increase to 40 cents a month.
Lawmakers say the millions it raises will go toward implementing the 988 hotline, which is different than 911.
“When you call 988, you’re talking to a clinician, they do a suicide assessment, they triage what services you need,” said Washington Democratic Rep. Tina Orwall
https://krcgtv.com/news/nation-world/washington-one-of-few-states-to-fund-new-suicide-hotline