The 988 Lifeline Support and Sustainability Establishment Amendment Act of 2025 aims to create a sustainable funding source for the District of Columbia's 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the broader behavioral health crisis response system. The bill proposes the establishment of a 988 Lifeline and Crisis Services Fund within the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), which will be financed through a modest monthly telecommunications fee imposed on various telecommunication services, including landline, wireless, prepaid, and VoIP services. This fee structure is similar to the existing E911 fee and is expected to generate approximately $12.5 million annually to support essential crisis response services, such as call centers and mobile crisis teams.

The legislation outlines specific provisions for the collection and remittance of the 988 fee, including detailed definitions and the establishment of rules for its implementation. It mandates that all revenues collected be used solely for crisis response operations and infrastructure, ensuring that the funds are not diverted for other purposes. Additionally, the Mayor is required to submit an annual report to the Council detailing expenditures and recommending any necessary adjustments to the fee to maintain long-term sustainability. This bill represents a significant step toward enhancing the District's behavioral health crisis response capabilities, ensuring timely and effective care for individuals in crisis.