Folks,

     I think we should petition the FCC for the correct license structure. Let's just cut to the core of the matter.

     I call this solution the OptOut License.

     It is really quite simple.

     Everyone in America (this is not limited to citizens as we don't want to be politically incorrect, and we must recognize desert survival, fence-climbing, Rio Grande wading and Border Patrol evasion as important alternative skills) who achieves the age of 18 would automatically be granted an Amateur radio license.

     Unless a person claims economic non-hardship (using a form not yet available) he or she will automatically receive Radio Stamps to help purchase essential items. Microphones, Pactor III-capable modems and League Publications are currently the only items on the list but it may be expanded pending a bi-partisan committee report, but only if the report is not adopted in whole.

     If a person wishes to *not* receive an Amateur radio license, they can do so by OptOut.

     OptOut must be done using the US Mail, and the correct form which is not available. Copies and self-printed facsimiles will not be accepted. The form will require the applicant to spell their name and check the box marked "OptOut." 70% is considered passing for the spelling portion of the form. If you don't get your name at least 70% correct, you must wait 30 days before re-applying. You may pay your OptOut fee using Radio Stamps, if approved by a unanimous vote of the FCC Commissioners.

     NOTE: You must renew your OptOut every seven years. Failure to do so may result in permanent suspension of your OptOut privilege.

     EXEMPTION: There are two classes of people for whom the age 18 limitation may be waived: those who live in the inner city, and those who do not.

     In the cities, it is recognized that look-outs for street sellers and other entrepreneurs are often underage, and they should not be denied access to radio spectrum solely because they are young.

     Outside the cities, young people sometimes drive tractors (rural) or ride lawn-mowers (suburban) and they, too, should be able to communicate.

     Thus, the reverse side of the OptOut form is the "No Youth Left Behind" form. Again, the person (or their legal guardian, parent, relative, employer, acquaintance, panhandler or any other person) will spell the applicant's name. They should then either check the "Inner City Exception" box if they are in the Inner City, or not check it if they are not in the Inner City or are not sure. On this form, the 70% accuracy rule will be waived. ***

     Let's get behind this now so we can all enjoy our wonderful avocation and not be distracted by regulatory minutiae!

72/73,

Lyle KK7P