Its final - amateur service license fees are coming...

The FCC explained why the ARS is not an "emergency radio service", and I happen to agree with that. They also explained why the ARS is not a "non-commercial radio service", and while I see the basis of their argument, do not totally agree with that interpretation. But that is the decision of the FCC, and they are unlikely to change that. What is probably needed is a one sentence amendment to the law that inserts "The Amateur Radio service, with exception of vanity call sign applications" into the list of exemptions. According to the FCC, they are unable to make the exemption on their own, so it will take "an Act of Congress" to make that change.

I agree with your assessment that we will see the number of new applications drop (and renewals). Unless some change is made, we will see 2020, or early 2021 as the highest number of licenses ever existing in the ARS. That drop could be subtle, or dramatic. We will just have to wait and see what happens.

 

You used an 'or' operator (logical operator) in your statement that...

"I don't see how knowing (or not knowing) CW has ANYTHING to do with operating a radio, or knowing which mode(s) can be used on which band(s)."

I was responding to the part after the 'or.' Not knowing CW increases the chances of someone not knowing which bands and band segments where CW is allowed/not allowed. Which is something that you should know as an Amateur Radio Operator.

WQ4G

 

While I don't support the fee, the fly by night licenses should dwindle. Also we, and soon the FCC, require FRNs prior to testing and the process of applicants going through the FCC first will hopefully draw more committed folks too.

 

Im sorry I despise all grandfather conditions

I busted my arse working and learning what was needed to upgrade

other folks can do the same, all it takes is time and some effort

I share HF frequencies with hams that dont even know any code , tell me how that is fair to all those that put in the effort

 

I thought it only required a bit of "memorization" to upgrade. Thought I read that here on the Zed forum. Maybe my memory isn't too good.

Maybe the FCC is aware that the extra class is too easy now so they will add a fee too make it more difficult!

 

Since you despise being "grandfathered", I hope that you are not using any of the new frequency priviledges that were granted AFTER you obtained your license.

Everybody else that is licensed also "busted their arse" and took the time and effort, so you're no different than they are.

You chose to get your license when the code test was mandatory, you should have waited until it was no longer a requirement, then you'd have no reason for your elitist attitude. New hams don't have the option to take a code test even if they wanted to do so.

Life isn't fair, get over it.

 

I know which bands/modes I can operate on and never learned CW, all that's required is the ARRL exam manual and a third grade reading level, but that might be asking too much from SOME people...

 

I share the road with people who haven't even learned how to drive a stickshift. Tell me, how is that fair to those of us who have put in the effort?

 

I'm sorry, you must have mistaken me for someone who cares. Perhaps you can find someone using code.

 

$35...shipping on a boat anchor...

 

I share the road with people who apparently never learned how to DRIVE!!!!

 

$35x3= $105, I think the FCC should start testing again.

Or let HAMS receive a stipend for their volunteer efforts.

Maybe they want to kill the hobby to auction off the spectrum.

 

I know code.. The Advance class should have never been taken out. It was the hardest test to get. Never need extra get all the privileges. Its was like giving no code tech more hf privileges! That was fair right?

 

I know must people are jealous they can't get this license. They gave out privileges to tech's. I won't paying 35.00 to renew. I have something that most hams can't get or have it up!

 

NOT So. I do not care if you Do or
Don't more space for CW Operators.
Like I said What abt u..????
Stupid comment ... CW Requirement
WILL NEVER BE RE- INSTATED.
No MOTIVATION.

K8PG Paul CW FOREVER