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Bill

S 2826

988 LGBTQ+ Youth Access Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Tammy Baldwin and 1 co-sponsor

The 988 LGBTQ+ Youth Access Act of 2025 establishes a dedicated helpline and funds mental health services to support the well-being of LGBTQ+ youth facing unique challenges.

Introduced in Senate
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 2826

Summary of Bill S 2826: 988 LGBTQ+ Youth Access Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The 988 LGBTQ+ Youth Access Act of 2025 aims to enhance mental health support and crisis intervention services specifically for LGBTQ+ youth. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by this demographic, the bill seeks to establish a dedicated helpline and improve access to mental health resources, thereby promoting the well-being and safety of LGBTQ+ young people.

Key Provisions

  1. Establishment of a Dedicated Helpline:

    • The bill proposes the creation of a 988 helpline specifically for LGBTQ+ youth, providing immediate access to trained counselors who understand the unique issues faced by this community.

  2. Funding for Mental Health Services:

    • It allocates federal funding to support mental health programs and services tailored to LGBTQ+ youth, including crisis intervention, counseling, and support groups.

  3. Training for Counselors:

    • The bill mandates that counselors and mental health professionals receive specialized training in LGBTQ+ issues to ensure culturally competent care.

  4. Outreach and Awareness Campaigns:

    • It includes provisions for outreach initiatives aimed at raising awareness about the helpline and available resources, targeting schools, community centers, and online platforms frequented by LGBTQ+ youth.

  5. Data Collection and Reporting:

    • The bill requires the collection of data on the usage of the helpline and the effectiveness of the services provided, ensuring accountability and continuous improvement of the programs.

Who Would Be Affected

  • LGBTQ+ Youth: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are LGBTQ+ individuals aged 24 and younger, who often face higher rates of mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety.
  • Mental Health Professionals: Counselors and therapists will receive training and resources to better serve LGBTQ+ youth.
  • Community Organizations: Nonprofits and community groups focused on youth services may receive funding and support to enhance their programs.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: The bill was introduced in the Senate on September 17, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of the introduction date, the bill has been read twice and referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions for further consideration.

Conclusion

The 988 LGBTQ+ Youth Access Act of 2025 represents a significant step towards addressing the mental health needs of LGBTQ+ youth. By establishing a dedicated helpline and providing targeted resources, the bill aims to create a supportive environment that fosters mental well-being and resilience among young people in the LGBTQ+ community.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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