[W8MWA] H.R. 607 "Broadband for First Responders Act of 2011" threatens part of 70cm band

[Jacob Tennant]

H.R. 607 "Broadband for First Responders Act of 2011" threatens part of 70cm
band
The Society of Broadcast Engineers issued a legislative alert to its members
this week. A Bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on
February 10, states that within 10 years after the Act is adopted, the
entirety of the paired spectrum between 420-440 MHz and 450-470 MHz must be
auctioned by the FCC for commercial use. This includes the Broadcast
Auxilliary Services (BAS) allocation at 450-451 MHz and 455-456 MHz. There
is no proposed replacement spectrum for displaced BAS licensees. Of interest
to hams would be that it also includes the 430-440 Mhz portion of the 70cm
ham band often used for satelite and weak signal work.
The spectrum targeted includes the 450-451 and 455-456 mhz sections which
are used heavily by commercial radio broadcasters for remote pick-ups, as
well as by many other civilian and defense users.
The Bill was introduced by Representative Peter King, (R-NY) who serves as
Chair of the House Homeland Security Committee. The "Broadband for First
Responders Act of 2011," has ten cosponsors as of now, including members of
both political parties.