Newly proposed legislation could create national mental health hotline for parents, youths

Newly proposed legislation could lead to the creation of a toll-free national hotline for parents and young people to provide help with mental health, parenting, substance abuse and other challenges.

The legislation, introduced this week by U.S. Rep. Norma Torres, comes as questions loom over the High Desert regarding support for those dealing with mental health crises. Earlier this month, a 15-year-old Apple Valley boy with autism was fatally shot by San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies.

The National Parents and Youth Helpline Act would direct the Department of Health and Human Services to create a 24-hour hotline for parents and children dealing with issues related to mental health, substance abuse, child welfare, parenting and more, according to a statement issued by Torres’ office.