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Advocacy Priorities

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CALL TO ACTION - YOUR SUPPORT IS NEEDED TODAY

February 24, 2025

Crisis Connections has three advocacy priorities for the current Washington State Legislative Session. In just a few minutes’ time, you and your network can engage your elected officials in creating a healthier community.
Please take action today and invite your network to join you!

1. Maintain current funding for the Washington 211 Program

Since 2006, calling 2-1-1 has provided a "No Wrong Door" point of access to over 5 million people who need help finding local and state human, social and health services. A decline in 211 services would have severe consequences, impacting vulnerable Washington communities who need housing, rent & utility bill assistance, food, transportation, and access to many other basic needs. It is critical to maintain 211 at the current level of funding at $2.5 million per year; $5 million from the General Fund for the 2025-2027 biennium. Nearly 300,000 calls annually could go unanswered if the state’s investment in 211 is not renewed. Without sufficient funding, 211 will no longer be available in many parts of the state by mid-2025.

CALL TO ACTION: Email your legislators asking them to voice support to the budget writers.

2. Increase the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline cell phone tax

Since the implementation of the 988 tax on cell phones, Washington state has made significant progress in establishing and implementing the 988 Suicide and Crisis lifeline, creating greater access to crisis services for individuals and their families in need. An improved crisis response system reduces reliance on emergency room services and the use of law enforcement response to behavioral health crises and helps to stabilize individuals in the community whenever possible. Washington state must continue its momentum and progress toward creating a robust crisis system across the state to save lives and reduce the burden on first responders.

CALL TO ACTION: Voice “pro” for SB5762 by clicking here.

3. Clergy As Mandated Reporters

Washington is one of only 2 states in the US that does not have clergy or “any person” enumerated as mandatory reporters. SB5375 & HB1211 require that members of the clergy provide a report to law enforcement or the department of children, youth, and families when they have reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered abuse or neglect. Every adult who works or lives with a child in Washington is required to notify authorities if they think a child is being abused except members of the clergy.

CALL TO ACTION: SB5375 is in jeopardy. Voice “pro” for SB 5375 by clicking here.

Thank you for acting today to improve the safety and wellbeing of Washingtonians!

Crisis Connections Mission: To foster resilience and wellbeing for all by connecting people to accessible and compassionate support.