FCC Considering Re-licensing Requirements for Amateur Class Licensees

The US  Federal Communication Commission has given notice for public comment on the proposal to establish re-licensing requirements for Amateur Class license holders of the Advanced and Extra Class license.  The public input period will be 6 months in duration ending September 8th 2021.

FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said "It has come to our attention that the skill set required to operate Amateur Radio has changed substantially and old guys with 30 words per minute on CW just don't cut it anymore."  Further background was provided showing that older operators struggle with Digital Modes, Software Defined Radio and many more of the newer aspects of communication and aren't nice to newer Hams.  "We need these class of operators to be a shining beacon for this hobby, leading the way in technological change and embracing it and providing leadership", said Pai.

When pressed as to what would happen to license holders that do not pass the re-licensing test Mr Pai said, "We do not want them to be removed from Amateur Radio, we understand how important this hobby is to license holders,  however a significant lowering of privileges is being considered, proposals have suggested being downgraded to General Class."

Scott VA7SL reporting 

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