NY senator calls for text-to-911 service

NEW YORK (AP) — Sen. Charles Schumer is urging the Federal Communications Commission to allow New Yorkers to text 911 dispatchers during emergencies.

He says often in emergencies people cannot talk over the phone but can text.

He cited the massacre at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando as an example.

The Democrat spoke before the Gay Pride Parade in New York City on Sunday.

He says the text-to-911 service could provide invaluable help in situations where initiating a voice call may be too dangerous.

Schumer is asking the FCC and phone carriers to work with the city to get the service going.

He says 20 counties across the state already offer the service. He says New York City, Long Island and other parts of the metropolitan area should have it too.

[STORY BY: THE ASSOCIATED PRESS]