House Bill 2757

This impactful bill centers around enhancing crisis services in Oregon, demonstrating the state’s commitment to effectively addressing critical situations. One of its key provisions involves expanding and financially supporting a well-coordinated crisis management system. This comprehensive system encompasses a vital suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline, identified as 9-8-8. To bolster this initiative, a dedicated fund named the 9-8-8 Trust Fund is set to be established.

To ensure the sustainability of these essential crisis services, the bill introduces a new approach known as the 9-8-8 tax. This tax will be applied to individuals utilizing telecommunications services, such as traditional phone calls and modern internet-based calls (Voice over Internet Protocol service). It’s worth noting that the tax specifically targets users of prepaid telecommunications serviceHowever, those who are receiving these services due to their specific needs as part of an assistance plan will be exempt from this tax burden.

Starting from January 1, 2024, until January 1, 2030, this tax will gradually be integrated into people’s bills and retail transactions. An additional positive aspect of the bill involves fostering collaboration between cities and counties to establish a mutually beneficial agreement regarding the provision of mobile crisis intervention.

988 | Celebrates One-Year Anniversary

As we come together to commemorate the one-year anniversary of the nationwide launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we find ourselves reflecting on the incredible journey that has brought us to this significant milestone. This commemoration isn’t just about acknowledging the passage of time; it’s about recognizing the dedication, compassion, and unwavering efforts of our Northwest Human Services (NWHS) Hotline team that has made a lasting impact on our community.

Over the past year, the 988 Lifeline has proven itself to be a beacon of hope for countless individuals in need. Our NWHS Hotline team has stood at the forefront of this initiative, offering a lifeline to those grappling with crisis and despair. It’s a testament to their commitment that, since July 16, 2022, we have collectively answered over 53,000 calls, providing an essential support system to those reaching out for help.

As Oregon’s exclusive regional 988 call center, NWHS has played a pivotal role in the success. The figures alone speak volumes about the impact we’ve made. In the span of a year, our Hotline team responded to nearly 30,000 total calls, a remarkable 20% of which originated from individuals dialing 988. Within these conversations lie stories of courage and resilience, as over 2,100 callers confided in our team about their thoughts of suicide. Equally remarkable is that 17 individuals who were in the midst of a suicide attempt reached out, and our Hotline staff’s swift intervention successfully diverted these attempts. These statistics underline the profound influence our team has had on creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for those seeking assistance.

In light of these remarkable achievements, I invite each and every one of you to join me in expressing gratitude to the Hotline staff members who have worked tirelessly to bring 988 to life. Their dedication is an embodiment of our organization’s values, showcasing the importance of extending a helping hand to those in need. A simple “Thank You” or a heartfelt note of appreciation can go a long way in acknowledging their exceptional efforts.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, let’s also reflect on the larger impact we’re making as a community. Every call answered and every conversation held through the 988 Lifeline resonates beyond the immediate moment – they embody the spirit of unity, empathy, and support that NWHS stands for. Each instance of reaching out is a testament to the strength of community, reminding us that we’re never truly alone in our struggles.