FCCFinal Rule
Implementation of the National Suicide Hotline Act
HealthcareTechnology
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Summary
This regulation requires phone companies and wireless carriers to make it easier for people to reach the National Suicide Hotline by allowing them to dial 988, a simple three-digit number similar to 911. The rule ensures that mental health crisis support is accessible to everyone who needs help, potentially saving lives by removing barriers to getting immediate assistance.
Key Points
- 1Phone companies must set up the 988 number as a nationwide suicide and crisis hotline that works on both landlines and cell phones
- 2The hotline connects callers to trained counselors who can provide immediate support and help during mental health emergencies
- 3Phone and wireless companies are responsible for routing 988 calls to the appropriate local crisis centers across the country
- 4The regulation applies to all telecommunications providers, ensuring consistent access regardless of which company provides your phone service
- 5People in crisis can now get help through a simple, easy-to-remember number without needing to know specific local numbers
Impact Assessment
If you are a consumer, this means you can dial 988 on any phone to reach suicide prevention services immediately, just like calling 911.
Impact Level
Significant
Geographic Scope
National
Compliance Cost
Moderate
Who is Affected
Technology CompaniesHealthcare ProvidersConsumers
Key Dates
Published
September 16, 2025
Regulatory Connections
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Procedural Rules; Correction
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Unlicensed Use of the 6 GHz Band: Expanding Flexible Use in Mid-Band Spectrum between 3.7 and 24 GHz
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General Provisions
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This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.
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