GMRS repeater linking freedom

I am writing to you as a concerned citizen and a General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) operator to respectfully request your support in advocating for the reinstatement of GMRS linking, which was recently banned by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Over the past decade, GMRS has experienced substantial growth across the United States, with more GMRS operators now than amateur radio (ham) operators. This expansion underscores the critical role GMRS plays in providing reliable communication, particularly for emergency preparedness and community coordination.

The FCC’s recent decision to ban GMRS linking raises significant concerns. We believe this action may violate the Chevron ruling, which established that significant regulatory decisions should be made by Congress, not by federal agencies. The Chevron doctrine underscores that such crucial determinations are within the legislative domain, and the FCC’s unilateral decision to ban GMRS linking seems to exceed its regulatory authority.

GMRS linking networks have developed significantly in each state, providing an essential communication infrastructure. These networks enable GMRS operators to extend their coverage, facilitate inter-state communication, and ensure coordination during emergencies. The prohibition on linking not only disrupts these established networks but also hinders the ability of operators to respond effectively to crises and support their communities.

In addition to reinstating GMRS linking, we also request that Congress order the FCC to address the growing demand by finding and allocating additional channels for GMRS. The current frequency allocation does not adequately support the expanding number of operators, and additional channels would greatly enhance service effectiveness and availability.

It is important to emphasize that if no action is taken to address these issues, the viability of GMRS could be severely compromised. The inability to link repeaters and the lack of sufficient channels could lead to the gradual decline of GMRS usage, ultimately diminishing its value as a crucial communication tool. This would undermine the ability of countless individuals and communities to rely on GMRS for effective communication, particularly in emergency situations.

In summary, we urge Congress to:

Reaffirm the Legislative Role: Reinforce that significant regulatory changes, such as the ban on GMRS linking, fall within Congress’s purview, not that of federal agencies like the FCC.

Support the Reinstatement of GMRS Linking: Advocate for the restoration of GMRS linking to support enhanced emergency response, improved community coordination, and technological advancement.

Order the FCC to Find Additional Channels: Direct the FCC to identify and allocate additional GMRS channels to accommodate the growing number of operators and improve service quality.

Taking these actions will help ensure that GMRS remains a viable and effective communication tool for all users. Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. I am hopeful that you will advocate for a review of the current regulations and support the reintegration of GMRS linking along with the allocation of additional channels. Please feel free to contact me if you require further information or wish to discuss this issue in more detail.