[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 81 (Tuesday, May 11, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E504]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN SUPPORT OF H.R. 2862, THE CAMPAIGN TO PREVENT SUICIDE ACT, AND H.R. 
     2981, THE SUICIDE PREVENTION LIFELINE IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2021

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, May 11, 2021

  Ms. JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of two 
pieces of legislation, H.R. 2862, the Campaign to Prevent Suicide Act, 
and H.R. 2981, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline Improvement Act of 
2021--both of which make critical investments to support suicide 
prevention efforts nationwide.
  Rising suicide rates across the country, and especially in my home 
state of Texas, represent a growing concern in our communities. 
According to the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health, Texas suicide rates 
have risen nearly 26 percent since 2000--and are the second leading 
cause of death for Texans aged 15 to 34. The cost of inaction on this 
issue is too high, and that is why I am encouraged that we are voting 
on these pieces of legislation today.
  H.R. 2862, the Campaign to Prevent Suicide Act, will direct the 
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to carry out a national 
suicide prevention campaign. This campaign would include advocacy for 
an effort that I led last Congress, which would redesignate the 
National Suicide Prevention Hotline as a three-digit 9-8-8 number. This 
effort, which would shorten the previous 1-800 number, is an essential 
step towards simplifying access to critical resources for our 
constituents in their times of need.
  H.R. 2981, the Suicide Prevention Lifeline Improvement Act of 2021, 
would further require HHS to develop a plan to ensure high-quality 
service through the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. Beyond a 
strategic plan, the bill would authorize additional funding for a 
network of local crisis centers that provide free support and 
assistance to those struggling with suicidal thoughts.
  Madam Speaker, the passage of these two bills would have immediate 
and tremendous benefits--and could ultimately save lives. That is why I 
will support these bills, and why I urge their immediate consideration 
and passage in the Senate.

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