Political Quotes

“not long ago, all 911 calls were local calls made on wireline phones. Today, it is estimated that nearly 130 million wireless phones are in use, generating an average of 150,000 calls to 911 each day. However, few people realize that most wireless 911 calls do not go to the nearest public safety answering point, do not provide the caller's call-back number, nor do they provide the caller's location. In some areas, wireless callers get an automated voice instead of help when they dial 911. The House passed legislation earlier this year which I introduced with my colleague, the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Eshoo), that attempts to solve these problems by enhancing the coordination of E-911 implementation in each State, discouraging the raiding of E-911 funds, and giving local PSAPs additional funding to help them finally achieve and enhance 911 capability. It is my hope we can get this legislation to the President before the end of the year so local communities can begin upgrading their 911 systems and help first responders locate those in need as quickly as possible.”