SCS SB 961 -- AMATEUR RADIO ANTENNA REGULATIONS

SPONSOR:  Champion (Luetkemeyer)

COMMITTEE ACTION:  Voted "do pass" by the Committee on
Communications, Energy and Technology by a vote of 20 to 0.

This substitute prohibits political subdivisions from enacting or
enforcing any ordinance that does not comply with the limited
preemption of the Federal Communications Commission Amateur Radio
Preemption Order.  Any ordinance relating to the placement,
screening, or height of an amateur radio antenna based on health,
safety, or aesthetic considerations must reasonably accommodate
amateur communications and be of minimal practicable regulation.
Political subdivisions can adopt ordinances prohibiting amateur
radio communications equipment from interfering with the
reception of broadcast radio or television signals and take
actions to protect or preserve historic districts.

FISCAL NOTE:  No impact on state funds in FY 2005, FY 2006, and
FY 2007.

PROPONENTS:  Supporters say that amateur radio operators are a
part of the Homeland Security network, and they take that
responsibility very seriously.  The bill ensures that they will
be able to use their equipment while not affecting television and
radio broadcasts.

Testifying for the bill was Senator Champion.

OPPONENTS:  There was no opposition voiced to the committee.

Alice Hurley, Legislative Analyst

Missouri House of Representatives
92nd General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated September 23, 2004 at 11:16 am