ARRL is asking its members to contact their US representatives in opposition to the sections of HR 607 that could affect the Amateur Radio Service allocation at 420-440 MHz. HR 607, the Broadband for First Responders Act of 2011, would address certain spectrum management issues, including the creation and maintenance of a nationwide Public Safety broadband network. It was introduced into the US House of Representatives February 10.

ARRL Regulatory Information Manager Dan Henderson, N1ND, clarified that the League opposes HR 607 in its present form. “We do not oppose the concept of dedicated spectrum for the development of a Public Safety infrastructure and wireless network. We object to the bill because of the inclusion of 420-440 MHz as part of the spectrum to be swapped and auctioned to commercial users.”

You can find a sample letter, “how to find your Representative” and the contact information for ARRL’s legislative consultant, Chwat & Co, at http://www.arrl.org/sample-letters.