The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a landmark bill signed into law by President Joe Biden on June 25, 2022, sought to make communities safer by reducing gun violence and strengthening mental health support. Provisions within the legislation include expanded background checks, support for gun violence prevention programs, stricter penalties for “straw purchases,” clarified definitions of gun sellers, and closing the “partner loophole” for gun purchases.
The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act also increased funding for mental health programs, including school-based mental health programs and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. $150 million in funding was made available to support the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which offers emotional support to individuals in a mental health emergency or other distress. This funding was provided to states to strengthen their crisis continuum by building capacity within 988 Lifeline crisis centers, creating specific supports for historically marginalized communities, and identifying mobile crisis teams that can be deployed rapidly throughout the state to address mental health during an emergency.
As the law's first anniversary approaches, Vibrant reflects on the progress that has occurred to prevent gun violence, bolster mental health resources and programs, and expand community violence intervention. Vibrant remains committed to the work remaining to ensure everyone can achieve emotional well-being and live free from the threat of gun violence.