Congressman Krishnamoorthi Demands Congress Protect LGBTQ+ Youth Crisis Hotline from Trump Cuts

WASHINGTON – This morning, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) joined with several of his Democratic colleagues in front of the U.S. Capitol in calling for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline, dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ youth in crisis, to be protected and fully funded. LGBTQ+ youth face suicide rates that are four times higher than their peers, and every 45 seconds, an LGBTQ++ young person attempts to take their own life. Since the service adopted 24/7 capabilities in March 2023, there have been more than 1.3 million calls, chats, and texts made to the 988 hotline from youth seeking a secure outlet during a moment of crisis. In 2024 alone, more than 600,000 young people reached out for help.

“Shutting down the 988 LGBTQ+ crisis line is not just shortsighted, it’s dangerous,” Congressman Krishnamoorthi said. “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.”

In June, Congressmen Krishnamoorthi, Seth Moulton (D-MA), Mike Lawler (R-NY), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) sent a bipartisan letter to Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. calling on him to reverse the decision to discontinue this critical service. Congressmen Krishnamoorthi and Moulton were among those at the Capitol calling on Congress to provide more funding for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Hotline to remind all LGBTQ+ Americans, particularly young people, that their lives are seen and valued.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s remarks from the press conference are available here.

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