The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is a crucial mental health resource, offering services 24/7, every day of the year. Since its launch in July 2022, the Lifeline has received more than 10.8 million calls, texts, and chat messages. Now, that support can go a step further.
On Oct. 17, 2024, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved rules that will require all wireless carriers in the United States to implement georouting solutions for calls to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. This development will match wireless callers to crisis counselors based on the location they call from, while still protecting the caller’s privacy.
Individuals in need of critical mental health services will receive specialized support from a crisis counselor who understands the unique community and cultural issues in their area. Typically, 988 calls would be matched to a crisis counselor based on area code instead of location. With the georouting implementation, crisis counselors will be able to connect callers to their local public health and safety resources.
Starting on Oct. 17, 2024, the FCC gave nationwide wireless providers 30 days to implement the georouting, and 24 months for non-nationwide providers.
In addition, the FCC approved a proposal for covered text providers to provide georouting data for individuals who use the Lifeline’s text messaging services. For covered text providers, the FCC’s proposal suggests an implementation deadline of 6 months from when a specialized rule for texts to the Lifeline is finalized.
In September 2024, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced two major U.S. wireless carriers (Verizon and T-Mobile) have already begun georouting 988 calls. NBCC encourages the remaining wireless carriers to begin the implementation process as soon as possible to support mental health needs.
If you or a loved one needs immediate mental health support, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Crisis counselors provide services in English, Spanish, and American Sign Language. Learn more about the Lifeline at https://988lifeline.org/.
