STATEMENT OF CHAIRMAN KEVIN J. MARTIN Re: Notice of Inquiry Regarding 911 Call-Forwarding Requirements and Carriers’ Blocking Options for Non-Initialized Phones, PS Docket No. 08-51. We all know that people are relying on cell phones for more and more of their calls, including calls to 911. The advances in wireless technology allow people to call for help more quickly and from more remote places than ever before. When used appropriately, wireless devices are a valuable tool that can speed help to those who are in need. Any tool, however, when used inappropriately, can damage the usefulness of the tool for others. Fraudulent 911 calls can waste valuable public safety resources. I am pleased, therefore, that we are taking steps today by granting the request of the public safety community to investigate ways to curb fraudulent 911 calls from non-service initialized handsets. I look forward to developing additional data on this issue, and examining recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of our 911 system by ensuring that resources are directed to legitimate calls for help, and that fraudulent uses of the 911 system are eliminated. I thank the Petitioners for bringing this concern to us, and am pleased that the Commission is acting on this request quickly.