SB QST @ ARL $ARLB012 ARLB012 Revised Memorandum of Understanding between ARRL and FCC Still a Work in Progress ZCZC AG12 QST de W1AW ARRL Bulletin 12 ARLB012 From ARRL Headquarters Newington CT April 6, 2017 To all radio amateurs SB QST ARL ARLB012 ARLB012 Revised Memorandum of Understanding between ARRL and FCC Still a Work in Progress The ARRL Executive Committee (EC) has directed that work begin on finalizing the language of a revised memorandum of understanding between ARRL and the FCC regarding the Amateur Auxiliary (Official Observer) program. The EC met on March 25 in Aurora, Colorado. The panel, which acts on behalf of the ARRL Board of Directors between its regular meetings, heard an update on the Official Observer Program Revitalization Study from ARRL Second Vice President and committee chair Brian Mileshosky, N5ZGT, who said his committee plans to present final recommendations later this year on revamping the Amateur Auxiliary, for ultimate consideration by the full Board. In his remarks, General Counsel Chris Imlay, W3KD, was complimentary of new FCC Chairman Ajit Pai and told the EC he thinks enforcement efforts may be more successful in the future, due to the new chairman's interest in the issue. Imlay also said the new chief of the Enforcement Bureau, Michael Carowitz, is reported to be "amateur friendly." He told the EC that he foresees a potential window of opportunity for improved spectrum enforcement work, as well as the opportunity to build a stronger working relationship with the FCC on all issues. NNNN /EX