House Joint Resolution 7022, sponsored by Hemmer, urges the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, along with other relevant state agencies, to implement the SAMHSA 988 Partner Toolkit and promote the use of the 988 hotline. Activated on July 16, 2022, the 988 hotline serves as a Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, providing 24/7 access to trained mental health personnel for individuals experiencing mental health or substance abuse crises. The resolution highlights the need for increased public awareness of this vital resource, as many Tennesseans remain unaware of its availability.

The resolution emphasizes the importance of mental healthcare access in Tennessee, noting that the state has six call centers serving all 95 counties, with plans for a seventh center in West Tennessee. By encouraging the use of the 988 hotline and the distribution of the SAMHSA toolkit, the resolution aims to enhance public knowledge and utilization of mental health resources. A certified copy of the resolution will be sent to various state officials and agencies to ensure widespread awareness and support for the initiative.