[DARC] Fw: Delaware Cell Phone Law

[newberry at juno.com]

To All Delaware residents:
 
As you know, the Delaware House narrowly defeated (20 to 19) an
amendment that would have exempted Amateur Radio operators (using Ham
equipment) from the restrictions of the hands-free communications
device legislation.  This was a tough blow but we're not down yet!

Late last week, Rep. Ruth Briggs King prepared an amendment that would
exempt all two-way radio devices...this includes amateur radios.  This
would allow us to retain our mobile privileges.

In an effort to insure success, I strongly encourage you to e-mail,
call, or fax your representatives asking for their support to this
amendment.  We came very close on her initial attempt to resolve this
major issue and we can have success this time,  but we need to make our
voices heard.

One way we plan to do this is to travel to Dover on Tuesday afternoon
and be present in Legislative Hall when this bill is discussed by the
Representatives.  This approach is at the recommendation of
Representative Briggs King.  When Rep. Briggs King visited us at Field
Day, she said the session was scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM on Tuesday.
(This can change, depending on other legislation.) To gain access to
the session, you must show identification and pass through a metal
detector.  We may only speak if requested by a Representative.  Having
a large number of Hams in the gallery/audience, will send a strong
message in and of itself.  If given the opportunity, we will be ready
to speak.

Please let me know if you will be able to participate in this important
event.  If the Representatives see a big "crowd" of Amateur Radio
operators, they will be more likely to vote in our favor. 

Something else we have to do is send e-mails to our Representatives,
strongly encouraging them to support this legislation.
 
Again you can find your Delaware Senator or Representatives phone
number and email address at:
http://legis.delaware.gov/
 

Here is an example of a note to send to your representative.

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Dear Representative _______________________:

As an FCC licensed Amateur Radio Operator, I sincerely request your
support to HB 494. This legislation will allow Amateur Radio Operators
to use our mobile two-way radios as we have done safely for over
seventy years.  

If Amateurs are forbidden or restricted in the use of our mobile
equipment, as currently described in HB 229, we will be severely
limited in our ability and readiness when called upon to provide
essential emergency communications . We utilize our mobile radios on a
daily basis thereby allowing us to be prepared for emergencies at any
time.  
 
 
Amateur Radio Operators are individually licensed by the Federal
Communications Commission after passing comprehensive written
examinations. Many Delaware Amateurs have completed emergency-related
courses provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.  We take
our communications responsibilities very seriously, investing both our
time as well as financial resources in purchasing equipment, training,
exercising, and supporting our local communities. 
 
 
I respectfully request and urge you to support this legislation.  By so
doing, you will enable Amateur Radio operators to continue our tradition
of support to our communities and the citizens of Delaware.
 
--------------------------------------------------------------------
ARRL Delaware Section
Section Manager: Frank T Filipkowski Jr, AD3M
ad3m at arrl.org
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