The Ohio Senate Finance Committee meeting on June 6, 2025, focused on critical funding needs for the state's suicide prevention services, particularly the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline. North Central, a key provider of these services, emphasized the growing demand for assistance and the necessity for increased funding to meet this need.

During the meeting, representatives from North Central highlighted their nearly 40 years of experience in providing suicide prevention services. They expressed gratitude to Governor DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly for their recent investments aimed at strengthening the community behavioral health system. However, they stressed the urgent need for additional funding for the 988 lifeline, which has seen a dramatic increase in call volumes since its inception nearly three years ago.

In January 2023, North Central received 1,122 calls, which surged to 1,744 in January 2024, and reached 3,287 calls in April 2025. The organization anticipates answering over 40,000 calls in 2025 alone. Notably, when individuals call 988, they connect directly with trained service providers rather than dispatchers, allowing for immediate support that can often prevent the need for law enforcement or emergency medical services.

Despite the rising demand, the proposed budget for the 988 services was significantly reduced to $20 million for each fiscal year, which falls below current operational costs. North Central urged the Senate to restore funding to the governor's original proposal of $34 million for fiscal year 2026 and $41 million for fiscal year 2027. This funding is deemed essential to continue providing life-saving services and to address the increasing call volume effectively.

The meeting concluded without further questions, but the discussions underscored the critical importance of adequate funding for mental health services in Ohio, particularly as the state faces rising demands for crisis intervention.