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5/26/2026
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Senate OKs bill ensuring permanence for 988 helpline, BH Link
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STATE HOUSE – The Senate today approved legislation sponsored by Senate Health and Human Services Committee Chairwoman Melissa Murray to codify the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and BH Link programs in state law, and require the state to ensure that both programs are fully funded each year.
The legislation, which now goes to the House, is part of the Senate’s 17-bill package of healthcare legislation centered on supporting Rhode Islanders in crisis, protecting patients and providers and strengthening the state’s health workforce.
The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline was established under the federal National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2022. It offers 24/7 call, text and chat access to trained crisis counselors who can help people experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use, mental health crises or any other type of emotional distress.
BH Link operates the 988 line as well as a walk-in center for those in crisis needing in-person support. Over 90% of 988 calls are resolved through phone support alone, drastically reducing the need for emergency department visits.
The bill (2026-S 3058A) creates a chapter of state law codifying both programs and requiring their full funding to ensure their continued operation.
“Every day, people across Rhode Island wake up carrying invisible pain — anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, loneliness, hopelessness… veterans, teenagers, parents trying to hold everything together while silently falling apart. Too many are wondering if anyone would notice if they disappeared. That is why the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and the acute mental health outreach provided by BH Link are so critical,” said Chairwoman Murray (D-Dist. 24, Woonsocket, North Smithfield). “Codifying 988 and the BH Link into Rhode Island state law means ensuring that no matter how the political winds change, no matter what budget battles come and go, this critical safety net remains strong, permanent and accessible for every single Rhode Islander who needs it. Because somewhere tonight, and tomorrow night, and next month, and next year, someone will make the hardest call of their life. And whether they live may depend on whether we prioritize these life-saving programs today. This bill codifies saving lives into law, and makes sure that when people reach out for help, someone is always there to answer.”
For more information, contact:
Meredyth R. Whitty, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401) 222-1923
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