Applaud CA's Effort to Restore a Lifeline for LGBTQ+ Youth

California lawmakers are stepping up to protect vulnerable young people — and they deserve applause.

After the Trump administration eliminated the specialized LGBTQ+ youth option within the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, California is advancing legislation to restore a direct pathway for LGBTQ+ young people in crisis to reach trained counselors who understand their experiences.

This effort recognizes a simple truth: every young person deserves access to support when they need it most. Before it was eliminated, the specialized service connected more than 1.5 million people with trained crisis counselors and provided critical support to LGBTQ+ youth facing disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges and suicide risk.

Mental health care saves lives. Crisis services save lives. And ensuring that young people can speak with counselors trained to understand their unique experiences can make all the difference in a moment of need.

By fighting to restore this vital resource, California leaders are sending a powerful message to LGBTQ+ youth: you matter, you are valued, and help will be there when you need it.

Add your name to applaud the lawmakers working to protect LGBTQ+ youth, expand access to mental health support, and save lives.