Sen. Tim Nangle bill to codify 988 crisis lifeline in Maine statute signed into law

AUGUSTA — On Friday, April 3, Gov. Janet T. Mills signed into law a bill from Sen. Tim Nangle, D-Windham, to formally recognize the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline in Maine statute. LD 1216, “An Act to Improve Behavioral Health Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention Services,” would establish 988 in state law as part of Maine’s crisis intervention framework.

“When someone is in crisis, they need to know that help is there and easy to reach,” said Sen. Nangle. “Codifying 988 in Maine law helps ensure that this lifeline remains a stable, reliable part of our response system. It’s a practical step that strengthens support for people across our state when they need it most.”

LD 1216 will formally define the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the section of law that governs the Department of Health and Human Services’ crisis intervention services. By placing 988 in statute, LD 1216 helps protect the long-term stability of the lifeline and creates a foundation for future legislation to strengthen coordination, awareness and the effectiveness of Maine’s crisis response system.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a simple, three-digit, nationwide number that connects individuals to compassionate, skilled support for anyone experiencing suicidal thoughts, mental health-related distress or substance use-related concerns. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, people who call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org are connected to a national network of more than 200 local crisis centers that provide judgment-free support, crisis de-escalation and connections to additional resources.

As non-emergency legislation, LD 1216 will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.

Sen. Nangle is serving his second term in the Maine Senate, representing Casco, Frye Island, Raymond, Windham and part of Westbrook. He serves as Senate chair of the Transportation Committee and sits on the Health and Human Services Committee.

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