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Krishnamoorthi slams Trump plan to end LGBTQ+ crisis helpline
The helpline has received nearly 1.5 million calls, texts, and chats since its inception in 2023
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Jeffin T. Kaleekal - Mon, 21, Jul 2025
- 04:00 EDT
- 24
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi / X/@Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi
Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and other democratic representatives came together at the U.S. Capitol to push for continued funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline’s LGBTQ+ Youth Specialized Services
According to a statement published on Krishnamoorthi's page, the hotline, which has handled nearly 1.5 million calls, texts, and chats since its 24/7 launch in Mar. 2023. The helpline has served over 600,000 young people in 2024 alone. LGBTQ+ youth, facing suicide rates four times higher than their peers, with one attempting suicide every 45 seconds.
Hitting out against the potential budget-oriented decision, Congressman Krishnamoorthi said, “Shutting down the 988 LGBTQ+ crisis line is not just shortsighted, it’s dangerous.”
He added, “At a time when nearly 40 percent of LGBTQ+ youth seriously consider suicide, we should be expanding mental health support, not tearing it down. I’m proud to stand with my colleagues from both parties to fight for the restoration of this vital lifeline and ensure every young person can access help when they need it most.”
ALSO READ: Rep. Krishnamoorthi urges FDA crackdown on illegal e-cigarettes
The first Trump administration helped create the 988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline. Now they’re trying to gut the LGBTQ+ youth line that saves lives.
— Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (@CongressmanRaja) July 18, 2025
We can’t let that happen. Congress must save this vital service. pic.twitter.com/gF6bhQBaJW
Krishnamoorthi, alongside Reps. Seth Moulton, Mike Lawler, and Brian Fitzpatrick had previously sent a bipartisan letter in June to Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., opposing the Trump Administration’s decision to discontinue the lifeline.
On July 17, Krishnamoorthi sent a letter to sent to Subcommittee Chair Robert Aderholt and Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro was co-signed by 104 Democratic Members of Congress.
In the letter, Krishnamoorthi adds, "In the midst of a youth mental health crisis, we cannot afford to eliminate a critical, life-saving resource for LGBTQ+ youth, who face both higher risks and greater barriers to care. These young people deserve to speak with professionals who are trained and equipped to meet their unique needs."
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