Answering the Call Act

Summary#

The Answering the Call Act of 2026 changes the Public Health Service Act to boost outreach about the 9-8-8 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline for first responders. It requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services to run outreach programs with first responder organizations, fund public awareness work tied to training and labor groups, collect and de-identify data on first responder use of 9-8-8, and create training for hotline counselors on first responder needs. The bill also defines "first responder" and "first responder organization."

The law would create a pilot program led by SAMHSA in partnership with the U.S. Fire Administration and first responder groups to tailor outreach to first responders. The Secretary must report to Congress on the pilot's results within three years.

What it means for you#

• First responders (police, firefighters, EMTs, and public safety telecommunicators) may see more outreach and materials about 9-8-8 tied into training and workplace wellness programs.
• Hotline staff may receive new, specialized training on trauma-informed and behavioral-health approaches for first responders.
• Data on how first responders use 9-8-8 may be collected in an aggregated, de-identified way to track trends rather than personal details.
• A pilot program will test coordination between federal agencies and first responder groups, with results sent to Congress in three years.

Expenses#

No publicly available information on total costs, appropriations, or specific funding amounts. The bill authorizes grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements and creates a pilot program, but it does not state how much money will be provided or where funds will come from.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.