STATEMENT OF
COMMISSIONER JESSICA ROSENWORCEL
Re: Improving the Resiliency of Mobile Wireless Communications Networks, PS Docket No. 13-239; 
Reliability and Continuity of Communications Networks, Including Broadband Technologies, PS 
Docket No. 11-60.
Four years ago, Hurricane Sandy descended on the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.  By the time the 
storm had run its ruinous course, communities up and down the east coast were struggling with an 
unthinkable mix of flooding and fire.  Power outages were widespread.  Across the affected areas, one 
quarter of our wireless towers failed.  So when residents needed to reach out for safety and security—too 
often they were unable to do so.  
What happened to communications during this storm was simply unacceptable.  But fortunately
we can learn from the past in order to better prepare for the future.  Today’s adoption of the Wireless 
Network Resiliency Cooperative Framework does just that.  Under this framework, our nation’s largest 
wireless providers have pledged to take collective action to better coordinate when disaster rears by 
facilitating roaming and fostering mutual aid.  They also will improve their outreach to local communities
and emergency personnel.  In addition, providers will work with the Commission to post up-to-date 
information about wireless site outages on a county-by-county basis.  This approach improves safety 
now—before the next storm strikes.  
Kudos to the public safety officials and wireless providers who came together to adopt this 
framework.  Thanks also goes to Representative Pallone for jumpstarting this discussion about improving 
the resiliency of our nation’s wireless networks with the introduction last year of the SANDy Act.