Enhances outreach to first responders for the 9-8-8 national suicide hotline.

The Answering the Call Act of 2026 amends the Public Health Service Act to improve outreach to first responders for the 9-8-8 national suicide hotline. The Secretary of Health and Human Services will conduct outreach activities to address barriers such as stigma, lack of tailored services, and privacy concerns. The bill also establishes a pilot program for collaboration between the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the United States Fire Administration, and first responder organizations.

Enhances outreach to first responders for the 9-8-8 national suicide hotline.

The Answering the Call Act of 2026 amends the Public Health Service Act to improve outreach to first responders for the 9-8-8 national suicide hotline. The Secretary of Health and Human Services will conduct outreach activities to address barriers such as stigma, lack of tailored services, and privacy concerns. The bill also establishes a pilot program for collaboration between the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the United States Fire Administration, and first responder organizations.