KØHB wrote:
"Bill Sohl" wrote

...... what is your specific proposal?

I propose that new license applications be available
in two classes, namely "Class B" and "Class A".

The "Class B" learners permit would have an entry-level test
(basic regulations, safety, operating procedures, basic DC
and AC electronics). This class would have full frequency and
mode privileges, power limited to 50W output.

You'll probably see that raised to 100-150 W on HF because there are so
many ~100 W rigs in existence.

The permit
would be issued for a period of 10 years, and be non-renewable.

But "re-takeable" - if someone took the Class B test again, they'd get
another 10 years as Class B - right?

The "Class A" license test would be of a difficulty level
similar to the current Extra class test, and would have
full privileges at power levels up to 1500W, equivalent to
current Extra Class license holders. This license
would be issued "for life" without requirement for
renewal.

Current licenses could be renewed indefinitely, and would
retain their current operating privileges.

Current Novice, Technician, General, and Advanced class
licensees could upgrade to "Class A" at any time.

Some questions, Hans (minor details, really):

1) What test would be required for upgrade to Class A for current
licenses?
Would the testing be the same for all current license classes - IOW,
would a current Novice face the same test to get Class A as a current
Advanced?

2) Would there be any experience requirement for Class B hams that
wanted to upgrade to Class A? IOW, could an unlicensed person go
for Class A "right out of the box"?

3) If the licenses are issued "for life", how would FCC know when an
amateur expired unless next-of-kin sent official notification? (Yes,
having
nonexpiring licenses means the apparent number of hams would cause
apparent growth, but OTOH it would also make the numbers less and less
a reflection of reality)

4) What would happen to the vanity callsign program under your plan?
Obviously a Class A could get a callsign from any block, but what would
be available to Class B?

---

One interesting side-effect of your plan is that a brand-new Class B
will be allowed on
frequencies that an old-timer Advanced (or any other non-Extra) is not
allowed on. Imagine the fracas that would cause!

bwaahaahaa!

Of course, the counterargument is that "it's an incentive for existing
hams to upgrade to Class A!"

73 de Jim, N2EY