[FLham] Temporary Ham Upgrade

[Pete Kemp]

Can the FCC use common sense in an emergency?

It appears so.  A Louisiana Technician Class amateur operator has received 
a temporary bump to Extra class privileges, for the sole purpose of 
handling of Katrina traffic.  After the hurricane passed most VHF and UHF 
repeaters were down, with most of the initial emergency work was being 
handled on HF.  The request was approved with an exchanged of e-mails.  It 
is evident from the FCC's action that the government is well aware of the 
vital part amateur radio is playing in the Katrina disaster.

This does NOT mean all Technician class operators should flood the FCC with 
e-mails. requesting similar station authorizations.   Obviously this op was 
in the disaster area with a direct need.  Be mindful of what I refer to as 
the "rubber rule." In an EMERGENCY, any frequency, any where, any time, any 
place, any power you may transmit.  Remember that if you invoke such an 
action, you had better be prepared to justify your action, if requested.

It should also be noted that during this Katrina incident, and its 
aftermath,  communications issues have again come to the front burner.   In 
meeting the need, government stations, such as MARS, SHARES, military and 
others have come into the amateur frequencies to conduct their operations.