On July 15, 2022, the FCC issued a press release noting that, as of July 16, 2022, covered text providers must support text messaging to 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (Lifeline). The Commission has recognized that texting can be a preferred method of communications for at-risk populations, including individuals with disabilities.
July 16, 2022, is also the deadline for activation of voice calls to 988, the 3 digit number for calls to the Lifeline. In addition to 988, individuals can reach the Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-8255 (TALK) or through online chats. Service members, veterans, and their families may reach the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1, calling 1-800-273-8255 and pressing 1, texting 838255, or sending online chats through the Veterans Crisis Line’s website, https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/.
Press Release:
Word: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-385324A1.docx
PDF: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-385324A1.pdf
Text: https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-385324A1.txt
General information about 988 and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at www.fcc.gov/988. For further information, please contact Emily Caditz, Competition Policy Division, Wireline Competition Bureau, at (202) 418-2268 or Emily.Caditz@fcc.gov. Individuals who use videophones and are fluent in American Sign Language (ASL) may call the FCC’s ASL Consumer Support Line at (844) 432-2275 (videophone).