In November 2024, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposed a rule to implement georouting for text messaging to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (988 Lifeline). This proposed mandate aims to extend the geographic-based routing system currently in place for voice calls to text messages, ensuring that individuals who reach out for help via text can connect with localized support. Georouting for text messaging will be based on cell tower information rather than a person’s precise location, maintaining privacy while improving access to localized crisis support.

Over the past year, Vibrant Emotional Health (Vibrant), along with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and other stakeholders, have worked to test and refine georouting solutions. Our efforts resulted in a successful proof of concept for voice calls, and now, Vibrant is committed to ensuring that georouting for text messaging mirrors that success. Vibrant believes that implementing a uniform standard across all carriers is crucial to ensuring that every individual seeking support via text can access localized help.

The 988 Lifeline has seen a significant rise in demand since transitioning to a three-digit number more than two years ago. With more people reaching out for help, especially youth and other high-risk groups who disproportionately rely on text messages as their primary means of communication, rolling out georouting for text messaging is crucial. Georouting for text messaging will not only improve access to crisis support but also foster greater equity by connecting individuals to counselors who are familiar with their local communities, resources, and challenges.

Vibrant’s comments on the FCC’s proposed rule are part of a broader effort to ensure that georouting for text messaging is implemented in a way that maximizes the Lifeline’s effectiveness and accessibility. Vibrant looks forward to working alongside the FCC, SAMHSA, and other stakeholders to continue improving the 988 Lifeline and make sure that every person who reaches out for help gets the timely, localized support they need.

For more details click here to view Vibrant’s comments to the FCC.