--------- Forwarded message ---------- From: W6YN Don Milbury w6yn@juno.com
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--------- Forwarded message ---------- From: TOM BLACKWELL radio@airmail.net
I had both a phone call and an EMail from Jim Haynie today about a new bill in the Texas Legislature that would "regulate wireless communication facilities."
Be aware that the ARRL is involved to protect the interests of amateurs on proposals like this.
After all that was said to establish the Texas PRB-1 Law in 1999, I am surprised to see this proposal. It seems there are no limits to the misunderstandings by some members of the public about amateur radio, and about technology generally.
I seriously doubt that a bill like this will be designated for a committee hearing. In fact, it has not been assigned to a committee, yet. There is no companion bill in the Senate. In Texas, it is said there is only one way to pass a Bill, but 1000 ways to kill one. I have experience doing both. Technology regulation has been an interest of mine for some time - - I handled the statements in the platform of my political party on investment in technology, on the internet, and on FCC policy (see the URL in my tag line, below).
I spoke with the bill sponsor's office today. They tell me that their office has been approached by citizens who were concerned about towers in their neighborhoods. They say they expect to amend the bill. In the interest of studying the misconceptions that have led to this, I have offered to discuss this with these concerned citizens if they will contact me. I also discussed with their office the work that was done on the Texas PRB-1 Bill by Rep. Patricia Gray (D-Galveston) in 1999, which, I thought, settled the issue.
Those wanting to comment to the sponsor, Rep. Robby Cook, should send EMail to his Legislative Aide, Amy Loos at amy.loos@house.state.tx.us Tell her that you want to see amateur radio excluded, and that if the bill proceeds to a hearing and the concerns with it are not worked out, that you expect to be personally present to testify in opposition. Request to be notified of the date and time of the hearing. It is my experience that this is the kind of message that gets the most attention at this stage of the game.
Amateurs enjoy respect at the Texas Legislature because of the work on the PRB-1 Bill, measures involving license plates, and other issues. This is an opportunity for us maintain the respect that we have been given. Amateur radio is in this position because of the personal investment in equipment by individuals, which is used without charge, remuneration or profit, for public service. Amateurs have provided meaningful contributions for public safety. We can not do this if there are unreasonable restrictions on antennas, as would be proposed by those who do not understand the technology. It also seems some citizens are not acquainted with the 'spirit of ham radio' to provide these services in ways that are open and free on the public airwaves.
Click here for a copy of the Bill: http://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlo/77r/billtext/HB01148I.HTM
-- Regards, TOM BLACKWELL, PO Box 25403, Dallas, Texas 75225 radio@airmail.net ICQ: 3690882 http://web2.airmail.net/radio Platform Committee: http://www.democrats.org N5GAR ARRL SGL-NTx
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