ODV, Earlier today FCC Chairwoman Rosenworcel wrote that repeal of the HF symbol rate is scheduled for the Commission meeting on November 15. In addition, I expect that the Commission will propose eliminating the symbol rate for VHF and UHF frequencies and instead relying on the signal bandwidth limits already in the rules. We have strongly supported their adopting a Notice proposing these additional changes during the past several months after consultation with the EC. Since the VHF/UHF symbol rate was not addressed earlier, public comment must be solicited before final FCC action. This won’t be announced more broadly until late tomorrow, but it is not a secret and can be disclosed immediately in general terms. However, I am asking the ARRL staff not to issue a written release until Thursday, after I have seen the details of exactly what the FCC is doing and can confirm not only the HF repeal, but also what I hope and expect is a “Further Notice” proposing broader elimination of the symbol rate applicable to VHF and UHF frequencies. You may remember that earlier this year Congresswoman Lesko introduced H.R. 3241 to statutorily repeal the HF symbol rate and then proceeded to grill Chairwoman Rosenworcel on this subject at an oversight hearing. While the Chairwoman at first suggested that the record needed refreshing, I was able to convince the staff, and the Chairwoman through the staff, that no further delay is justified. She has now approved a draft decision for consideration by the full Commission on November 15, and the other Commissioners seem fully supportive. We can thank Rep. Lesko for getting needed attention to this matter at the FCC. This was done in cooperation with your ARRL Legislative Committee as an add-on to ARRL’s advocacy on antenna legislation. 73, Dave K3ZJ David R. Siddall Managing Partner DS Law, PLLC 1629 K St. NW, Ste 300 Washington, DC 20006 direct: +1 202 559 4690 Unauthorized Disclosure Prohibited. This e-mail is intended solely for the intended recipient(s) and may contain information that is proprietary, confidential or privileged. If you are not the intended recipient, it is prohibited to disclose, copy, distribute, or use the contents of this email and its attachments. If you received this e-mail in error, please notify the sender by reply e-mail and destroy all electronic and physical copies of the e-mail message and its attachments. Unintended transmission shall not constitute waiver of attorney-client or any other privilege. Thank you.
