The document discusses two major steps taken in 2016 to improve emergency communications: 1) FirstNet began soliciting proposals for a nationwide broadband network for first responders, and 2) three first responder groups set a 2020 deadline for Next Generation 911 adoption across the US. These systems will improve how first responders interact and share data. While they have complementary goals, each has developed separately due to different origins. The 2020 NG911 deadline and FirstNet's contracting process aim to fully implement improved emergency communication systems.