Advocates and legislators across Maryland, in a testament to their shared commitment to mental health, celebrated a significant victory on May 16 as Governor Wes Moore signed groundbreaking legislation establishing a permanent funding source for the state’s crisis contact centers in the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline network (988 Lifeline). The measure, SB974/HB933, garnered overwhelming bipartisan support in both the Senate and House of Delegates, reflecting the collective effort to improve mental health services in the state.

The newly signed legislation introduces a 25-cent monthly telecom fee, applicable to both cell phones and landlines. This fee, modeled after the funding mechanism for 911, is expected to generate more than $25 million annually. These funds will improve the efficacy of Maryland’s 988 Lifeline and enable its expansion. Crisis contact centers will be able to serve more people needing emergency emotional support, hire additional staff, invest in advanced technology, and prepare for the increasing demand for mental health services.

Since its transition to a three-digit number nearly two years ago, Maryland's 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has seen a dramatic increase in usage. Calls have surged by over 50%, and text messages have skyrocketed by over 1000%, underscoring the growing reliance on this vital resource. 

The enactment of this legislation provides for budget predictability, allowing for strategic planning and system enhancements. Improvements such as expanding text message capacity and integrating 988 systems are now within reach. Eight other states, including Virginia and Delaware, have already implemented similar telecom fees, and Maryland joins a broader movement to secure sustainable mental health support.

Read about the importance of sustainable funding for the 988 Lifeline here.