119th (2025–2027)
H.R. 9814
The 988 Lifeline Location Improvement Act of 2026 directs the Federal Communications Commission to investigate challenges with sharing caller location information when people call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and requires the Government Accountability Office to study how to improve geolocation capabilities. The bill affects telecommunications companies, 911 emergency services, crisis centers, and the 988 hotline itself, which provides mental health support to people in crisis. The FCC must complete its inquiry within 270 days of the bill's enactment and consider issues including legal authority, privacy protection, technical feasibility, costs, and challenges for deaf and hard-of-hearing callers using video services. The GAO must submit its report within 180 days and will consult with a broad range of stakeholders including phone companies, government agencies, emergency responders, and mental health organizations. The bill does not establish new funding amounts but directs these agencies to evaluate what costs and funding may be needed to implement location-sharing technology for crisis calls.