NENA is commending Federal Communications Commissioner Robert M. McDowell for his record of commitment to improving 9-1-1 services. McDowell on Wednesday announced that he will step down from his post within a few weeks.

McDowell was first appointed to the FCC by President George W. Bush and unanimously confirmed by the Senate in 2006. He was reappointed in 2009 by President Obama and reconfirmed unanimously by the Senate.

"Commissioner McDowell is a good friend of NENA and a longtime supporter of 9-1-1 and public safety," said NENA CEO Brian Fontes. "At every turn, he has been a strong ally in addressing current challenges and accelerating the development of Next Generation 9-1-1 networks. We wish him well in his future endeavors and look forward to continuing our close working relationship with his successor and all commissioners."