Oklahoma 988 Trust Fund bill advances in House committee

Oklahoma 988 Trust Fund moves toward full budget review

A bill creating the Oklahoma 988 Trust Fund has advanced out of a House committee, positioning the measure for further review by the full Appropriations and Budget Committee.

The proposal would establish a dedicated funding source administered by the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to support suicide prevention and behavioral health crisis services statewide.

The federal 988 crisis line, launched nationwide in 2022 under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, provides immediate mental health support through call, text, and chat services.

Lawmakers say Oklahoma 988 Trust Fund ensures stability

Supporters say the Oklahoma 988 Trust Fund would help stabilize staffing, expand mobile crisis units, and strengthen the state’s behavioral health response system.

Representative Kevin Norwood said the measure aims to ensure long-term funding as demand for crisis services continues to grow.

Data published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) shows nationwide increases in 988 utilization since its implementation.

Funding proposal heads to full Appropriations Committee

If approved, the trust fund would formalize Oklahoma’s financial structure for crisis response services, helping prevent funding disruptions in future budget cycles.

Advocates argue the Oklahoma 988 Trust Fund would create accountability while protecting essential suicide prevention infrastructure.

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