Westerman Statement on Amateur Radio Parity Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WASHINGTON – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement Monday (September 12) upon passage of H.R. 1301, the Amateur Radio Parity Act:

“For too long, FCC rules have stifled the thousands of amateur radio operators broadcasting in Arkansas and around the nation," Westerman said. "The passage of H.R. 1301 removes unnecessary regulations on ham radio enthusiasts who provide valuable services to their local communities in times of crisis. This is a victory for Arkansas amateur radio operators.”

According to the office of Congressman Luke Messer, FCC rules currently in place allow for certain land-use restrictions by homeowners associations and other local community associations. These rules can limit the ability of the more than 730,000 amateur radio operators to pursue their hobby on their private property even while complying with federal licensing requirements. H.R. 1301 would prohibit such restrictions on private land-use.