The point of the NPR story was that people are activating the
emergency beacons in non-emergent situations. A 911 hang up or 911
call to complain about a parking ticket are much easier and MUCH
cheaper to address than a beacon in the back country. An example given
by a rescue type was the guy who failed to plan properly and had to
spend an extra night in his tent. He cried "Wolf!" because he was
going to be late for some sort of engagement. He was not in danger at
all. These devices, while a great asset, need to be used responsibly.
At least SPOT gives some options, not just MAYDAY or nothing.

My 2c

Mike