Vibrant Emotional Health Applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for Passing the 9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act
Media Contact: Divendra Jaffar, [email protected]
New York, NY – March 6, 2024 – Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant), the administrator of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988 Lifeline), applauds the U.S. House of Representatives for taking a significant step in safeguarding the nation’s mental health infrastructure by passing H.R. 498, known as the “9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act.” Led by sponsors Representatives Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), this bipartisan bill aims to fortify the security and integrity of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline against potential cyber threats, ensuring uninterrupted access to vital services for those in need.
In December 2022, a vendor for the 988 Lifeline experienced a significant outage and cyber attack that impacted the ability of individuals in crisis to access vital support services. H.R. 498 amends the statute authorizing the program to establish a reporting structure for any cybersecurity vulnerabilities or incidents and requires a study of cybersecurity risks within 988 Lifeline.
Grant Riewe, Chief Technology Officer at Vibrant Emotional Health, expressed gratitude to the U.S. House of Representatives for their action. He states, “The passage of the 9-8-8 Lifeline Cybersecurity Responsibility Act is crucial in ensuring the continued availability and security of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. By fortifying cybersecurity measures, this legislation helps uphold our commitment to providing essential mental health services to those in need, especially during times of vulnerability.”
“The bipartisan support for H.R. 498 reflects a collective recognition of the importance of mental health support and crisis intervention. It demonstrates a unified effort to mitigate potential risks and ensure that individuals in crisis receive the assistance they deserve without disruption. We thank Representatives Obernolte and Cardenas for their leadership, The House Energy & Commerce Committee, and the entire House for considering this important bill. Vibrant calls on the Senate to pass this legislation as soon as it comes to their chamber,” said Laura Evans, Assistant Vice President for Public Policy & Government Affairs within Vibrant Emotional Health.
To learn more about Vibrant Emotional Health, visit www.vibrant.org. Stay up to date with Vibrant’s latest public policy updates at votervoice.net/Vibrant/.
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About Vibrant Emotional Health
Vibrant Emotional Health is a non-profit organization that helps individuals and families achieve emotional well-being. For over 50 years, our groundbreaking solutions have delivered high-quality services and support when, where, and how people need it. We offer confidential emotional support through our state-of-the-art contact center and crisis hotline services that use leading-edge telephone, text, and web-based technologies, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, Disaster Distress Helpline, Veterans Crisis Line, and NFL Life Line. Through our community wellness programs, individuals and families obtain the support and skills they need to thrive. Our advocacy and education initiatives promote mental well-being as a social responsibility. We help nearly 5 million people live healthier and more vibrant lives yearly. We’re advancing access, dignity, and respect for all and revolutionizing the system for good. Visit vibrant.org. Follow Vibrant on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
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