#RecordOfSuccess: House Clears #SubCommTech Bill to Protect Amateur Radio Operators

Statement

The House of Representatives today added to the Energy and Commerce Committee's bipartisan #RecordOfSuccess by unanimously passing H.R. 1301, the Amateur Radio Parity Act of 2015, sponsored by committee member Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL). The bill, which originated out of the Communications and Technology Subcommittee, chaired by Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) would instruct the FCC to adopt rules that protect the rights of amateur radio operators to use radio equipment in deed-restricted communities.

"During times of emergency service, such as following a hurricane or tornado, amateur radio operators are able to use their skills and equipment to create a network of communications for first responders when other wired or wireless networks are taken down. A vital and lifesaving function," said Rep. Kinzinger. "This legislation would change current regulations hampering the ability of amateur radio operators to effectively communicate in certain areas, while respecting and maintaining the rights of local communities in which many of these operators reside."

"Amateur radio plays an important role in emergency response, often being able to establish communication in disaster areas when traditional communication networks fail," concluded full committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI). "This bill is further testament of this committee's ongoing bipartisan record of success."

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