Something similar happens when U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas get such calls, often from college kids on spring break. They, too, have had to implement measures to prevent frivolous use and abuse of their services.

"Yeah, hi, um, I've run out of money and need a place to stay and help getting home."

"Cetainly, Sir, we'd be happy to help. We'll need the names and contact details of three members of your immediate family and your permission to contact them. If they are unable to help, then we would be happy to provide you with a no-cost loan to cover your return expenses. We'll be replacing your passport with a one-time passport good only for return to the USA. You won't be able to leave the USA again until the loan is paid and, in the event you choose not to pay, well, we're the Government, so we'll just dock your pay. So, could I get those names and numbers, please?"

"Um, well, I guess I'll just call my Mom."

"That's fine, Sir, feel free to call back if you still need our help."

I see absolutely no reason why there shouldn't be standards as to what is and is not an emergency and, if you make a nuisance or unjustified call on a PLB, you get billed for the cost. If a genuine emergency, I have no problem with all of us sharing the burden (you wouldn't want to get a bill from the fire department added to your woes if the house burned down). But if frivoluous, by all means, bill them or at the very least make it a ticketable offense with a hefty fine.