WASHINGTON (Reuters) – The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted unanimously on Thursday to require wireless carriers to allow texting to the new “988” U.S. National Suicide Prevention hotline that will begin use by July 2022.
FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks said research indicates “young people prefer communicating by text and are more likely to forgo psychological support when talking in person or over the phone.” The “988” three-digit code will direct calls to the existing suicide prevention helpline (800) 273-8255, which will also remain in service.
(Reporting by David Shepardson)
