[evlatests] Low Band threat halted

[Paul Harden]

A few years ago, an amateur radio band was created in the UK, Europe, 
and parts of Africa at 4M or 73 MHz and has gained in popularity as a 
UHF ham band.  There have been movements to expand this "ham band" world 
wide.  A proposal to create a similar band in the U.S. was submitted to 
the FCC a few months ago followed by a period of public comment.  Most 
comments favored the new 4M ham band at 70.0-70.5 MHz, old TV channel 4, 
with few objections.  There is interest in how to use the old vacated TV 
frequencies from 4-band to P-band for new public and commercial use.

Yesterday, Sept. 18, the FCC *rejected* the proposal.

See:
http://www.arrl.org/news/fcc-turns-down-petition-to-create-a-4-meter-band-in-the-us

This kills the Petition for Rule Making change for at least the next 
couple of years.  They cited possible interference issues with a few 
remaining services, though did not mention the protected 74 MHz 
astronomy band.

Regardless, I know some of you have followed this potential threat to 74 
MHz, and wanted to report it has been killed for the time being.

Paul
(amateur radio operator NA5N)