[FCARC] HR 607 Update

[Craig Szczublewski]

I am forwarding this from an email received from Jim Weaver, K8JE,
Director, Great Lakes Division:


HR 607 is titled the Broadband for First Responders bill.
Unfortunately, one of the bill's clauses would take the amateur 420-440
MHz frequencies in achieving its otherwise excellent objective.

Upon being introduced into the House, the bill was referred to the
House Energy and Commerce Committee.  To date, the subcommittee has
taken no action. In addition, in a meeting with a group of amateur
constituents the bill's sponsor, Rep. Peter King of New York, has
stated he no longer favors taking the amateur frequencies.  Finally,
alternative bills having the same objective as HR 607, but that do not
involve amateur frequencies, have been introduced into the House as
well as the US Senate.

Considering the above facts, one can easily speculate that the present
threat to 420-440 MHz may be over.  Using only the letter generating
utility developed by Rick Haltermon, KD4PYR, amateurs are known to have
generated over 13,000 letters in opposition to the potential frequency
grab.  What a great response to the call for action!

As tempting as it is to speculate on victory, it is more important that
amateurs keep an eye on HR 607 and other bills that could impact our
frequencies.  This is precisely what is being done by legislation
watchers at ARRL.

For now, it is appropriate to sheathe our pens, but to keep them primed
and handy to use if the need arises.


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Craig Szczublewski - kd8kbu