Federal Communications Commission FCC 11-55
STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER ROBERT M. McDOWELL
Re: Reliability and Continuity of Communications Networks, Including Broadband 
Technologies, Notice of Inquiry, PS Docket No. 11-60, FCC 11-55
I support today’s inquiry into the reliability, resiliency and continuity of our 
nation’s communications networks and technologies during emergencies.  I am especially 
gratified that we are proposing terminating two open proceedings in favor of the 
comprehensive approach set forth in today’s NOI.  I thank Chairman Genachowski for 
creating a more efficient procedure for those interested in participating.
 
I have a particular interest in learning more about our legal authority in this area, 
especially as it pertains to more discrete matters such as back up power mandates, an 
issue the Commission has struggled with over the years.  In addition, I will look for 
information on whether and how public safety entities may use commercial off-the-shelf 
equipment and technologies.  I understand that the public safety community has 
historically opposed reliance upon commercial products due to concerns over lack of 
coverage, reliability and security.  A consensus may be emerging among them, however, 
that commercial technologies may provide significant benefits, at least for non-mission 
critical applications.  I hope to learn more about this important issue from both public 
safety and industry.  I have long emphasized the beneficial economies of scale associated 
with greater use of commercial services and technologies in the public safety sector.
Finally, I want to acknowledge our colleague in the Public Safety and Homeland 
Security Bureau, Gary Thayer.  I understand that Gary postponed his retirement to help 
launch this proceeding today.  Thank you, Gary, for your work in this proceeding, as well 
as for your twenty-four years of service here at the Commission.  I wish you the best and 
congratulate you!