Minnesota just created a
program so that people can text 911 when they need emergency services. In all 49 other states — including my homestate of Illinois — this is not an even an option.
Sign the petition to ask Illinois to follow Minnesota and create a way for its residents to text 911.It's such a simple, yet powerful idea that it's shocking that it isn't already an option. The program in Minnesota was created to both help folks who are limited in hearing or speaking and for folks in situations where a phone call could endanger them further.
I want this same option for my state. Imagine a home intruder situation. Calling 911 would require you to speak and the intruder could find you and harm you. Texting can be silent. Texting would also be crucial in domestic violence situations. Often a victim is too scared to make noise in case the perpetrator hears and harms them further.
This is a life saving idea. Please sign to tell Illinois' Administrator of the Office of the Statewide 9-1-1 program to implement this lifesaving idea.
