*Pages 1--1 from Microsoft Word - 33880* SEPARATE STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN MICHAEL K. POWELL Re: Revision of the Commission’s Rules to Ensure Compatibility with Enhanced 911 Emergency Calling Systems (CC Docket No. 94- 102); and Amendment of Parts 2 and 25 to Implement the Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite (MPCS) Memorandum of Understanding and Arrangements; Petition of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration to Amend Part 25 of the Commission’s Rules to Establish Emissions Limits for Mobile and Portable Earth Stations Operating in the 1610- 1660.5 MHz Band (IB Docket No. 99- 67). E911 is an essential component to the Commissions Homeland Security Agenda. By our action, the Commission demonstrates its continued commitment to ensuring that all Americans have access to life saving services provided through various telecommunications platforms. Our balanced approach takes into consideration reasonable consumer expectations regarding access to emergency call features, the need to deploy life saving services in times of crisis, and the needs of entities offering various services and devices to compete in a competitive marketplace. Specifically, in this Report and Order, we revise and broaden the scope of our existing enhanced 911 (E911) rules to clarify the obligation of mobile satellite services (MSS), telematics services, multi- line telephone systems, resold and pre- paid calling services, and disposable phones to provide E911capabilities. In the Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, we seek additional comment, concerning MSS carriers with integrated ancillary terrestrial component (ATC), and their ability to comply with our location accuracy standards. In addition, our continued participation with local and state public safety organizations and private industry, such as the FCC’s E911 Coordination Initiative, will further encourage the full deployment of prompt emergency response. Although the Commission expands the scope of its rules, it must continue to ensure that there are no unacceptable gaps in our Nation’s emergency call system. I am particularly concerned about E911 access for MLTS operators. I strongly encourage our state colleagues to take action to ensure E911 capabilities in these systems. The Commission will continue to closely monitor this situation to ensure the American people have the E911 access they expect and deserve. 1