A bipartisan bill unveiled on May 4 by U.S. Reps. Erin Houchin (R-IN) and David Valadao (R-CA) would expand awareness and access to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for students and young adults.
Rep. Houchin sponsored the Campus Lifeline Act of 2026, H.R. 8657, alongside three original cosponsors, including Rep. Valadao and U.S. Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA), to enhance programs for youth suicide prevention and intervention.
“We have a responsibility to make sure young people know where to turn in a moment of crisis,” Rep. Houchin said. “During Youth Mental Health Awareness Week, I’m proud to introduce the Campus Lifeline Act to expand access to the 988 Lifeline and strengthen support on campuses. This bill promotes early intervention, student engagement, and life-saving mental health resources. It’s our goal to make sure every young person knows help is available.”
If enacted, H.R. 8657 would clarify that the 988 Lifeline could be printed on driver’s licenses and student identification cards in an effort to help ensure young people have immediate access to critical resources.
“Young adults are facing a growing mental health crisis, but too many still don’t know where to turn for help,” Rep. Valadao said. “While California law requires the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline be printed on student ID cards, access to this life-saving resource shouldn’t depend on your zip code.”
The bill also would strengthen campus mental health efforts by allowing Garrett Lee Smith grants to support student-led early intervention and outreach, according to a bill summary provided by the lawmakers.
“By expanding existing Garrett Lee Smith Memorial Grants and ensuring 988 is added to new IDs nationwide, we can raise awareness for mental health care, connect more people to support, and help prevent tragedies before they happen,” added Rep. Valadao.
The measure, which is supported by Active Minds, has been referred to the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee for consideration.
“By leveraging the reach of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, we can connect more teens and young adults with the support they need, ensure they know help is available, and reach more young people before a crisis becomes a tragedy,” said Rep. Trahan.