Federal Budget Proposal Threatens LGBTQ+ Crisis Hotline Funding

A proposed federal budget draft seeks to eliminate funding for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services, which has provided crisis support to over a million individuals since 2022, raising concerns among advocates in states like Colorado and Texas about the potential loss of critical mental health support for marginalized youth. Local experts emphasize that the 988 lifeline is essential, especially in rural areas where other resources may be unavailable, and warn that nonprofits could be overwhelmed if forced to fill the gap. National advocates, such as those from NAMI and Equality Texas, underscore the bipartisan importance of mental health funding and urge Congress to preserve these life-saving programs, cautioning that cuts could worsen mental health outcomes and strain other support systems. The proposed funding cut is not yet final and requires Congressional approval, giving the public and organizations time to advocate for the retention of these services.