NENA congratulates new FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler and new Commissioner Michael O’Rielly on their unanimous confirmations by the United States Senate. "During his long career, Mr. Wheeler has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing 9-1-1 and public safety issues, including the development of both standards to better locate wireless 9-1-1 callers, as well as services and technologies that better serve individuals with disabilities during emergencies," said NENA CEO, Brian Fontes. "His knowledge, experience, vision, energy, and leadership will undoubtedly make Mr. Wheeler an extremely effective Chairman."

Fontes continued, "Mr. O’Rielly’s extensive expertise in telecommunications, dedication to public service, and commitment to innovation will serve him well in his new role as FCC Commissioner. NENA looks forward to working with him, Mr. Wheeler, and a fully staffed Commission in support of actions on a broad range of 9-1-1 concerns, including the deployments of text-to-9-1-1 services and Next Generation 9-1-1 capabilities, that are vital to ensuring that all Americans have access to a 9-1-1 system prepared to meet the evolving needs of citizens and first responders alike."