[SCCC] New FCC Ruling - Part 97 Docket #200-4U

[Art - W6KY]

 Dateline, Washington, DC

 The FCC today took what they described as an important new step to
 reduce QRM on amateur frequencies by setting standards for voice
 speeds. The docket #200-4U will become official in the Part 97 amateur
 regulations effective August 1st.

 Citing frequent complaints about "long, boring conversations" on the
 ham bands, especially 75 meters, the Commission moved to impose a new
 standard on voice operations requiring all conversations to be at a
 speed of "at least 200 spoken words-per-minute".

 The Commission in its ruling was especially critical of what they
 called "long winded, often endless conversations by old men talking
 about their prostate problems and other needs to get up and go to the
 bathroom several times during the night".

 FCC staffers say they have personally heard conversations about
 nothing that went for hours and tied up frequencies that could be used
 by faster talkers.
 Official Observer stations have received instructions to listen to
 suspect conversations and count the number of words-per-minute spoken.
 Those QSOs which fail to meet the minimum speed requirements will be
 noted and the operators involved will receive Official Observer
 Advisory Notices encouraging them to follow the rules or risk
 receiving notice of apparent violation citations from the FCC.

 Some hams in southern states complained the new regulation will impose
 a burden on them because they naturally talk more slowly than those up
 north.
 They are suggesting that frequencies be set aside for slow speed
 discussions concerning favorite countrymusic artists (particularly Don
 Williams), NASCAR, huntin' and feeshin' (particularly bass and brim).
 FCC says it may consider that in future rulemaking.

 In a separate press release, the American Radio Relay League said they
 are also concerned about two-meter operation where little is discussed
 except "full quieting and items to be picked up on the way home". The
 League said that sort of thing is boring and is usually spoken very
 slowly as well, far below the 200 words-per-minute minimum. The League
 suggested conversations on how to help raise more money for League
 activities would be especially welcomed and will be encouraged. Future
 issues of QST will contain special pull-out sections containing
 recommended topics for on-air discussion to brighten up QSOs.