FCC moves toward requiring the text equivalent of 911 calls

WASHINGTON, March 4 (UPI) -- With more U.S. residents sending text messages instead of making phone calls, emergency agencies could be required to have text capability by year's end.

The Federal Communications Commission published a call for comment on the implementation of text-to-911 service Tuesday.

"Americans are increasingly relying on text as an alternative to voice for every day communications," the FCC said.

The agency said more than nine of 10 U.S. adults have a cellphone and more than four out of five use texting.