Changes to FCC Part 97 concerning Amateur Communications

The ARES E-Letter
October 18, 2006
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FCC News: Part 97 rules have been changed from limiting amateur communications in support of relief actions to disaster situations when normal communications were overloaded, damaged, or disrupted, to allowing amateurs at all times and on all frequencies authorized to the control operator to meet essential communications need and facilitate relief actions. This relaxation of the rules should eliminate questions and confusion that have historically put up hurdles to using Amateur Radio in emergencies.

In its Report and Order, the FCC also acknowledged one of the key purposes of Amateur Radio is to provide emergency communications to the public. It is always good to see that affirmation by the FCC from time to time.