In article , Radio Amateur KC2HMZ
writes:


That doesn't seem to be how the FCC (which is where the final decision
on code testing will come from) views it:

"We note, moreover, that the design of modern communications systems,
including personal communication services, satellite, fiber optic, and
high definition television systems, are based on digital communication
technologies. We also note that no communication system has been
designed in many years that depends on hand-keyed telegraphy or the
ability to receive messages in Morse code by ear. In contrast,
modern communication systems are designed to be automated systems.
Given the changes that have occurred in communications in the last
fifty years, we believe that reducing the emphasis on telegraphy
proficiency as a licensing requirement will allow the amateur service
to, as it has in the past, attract technically inclined persons,
particularly the youth of our country, and encourage them to learn and
to prepare themselves in the areas where the United States needs
expertise."

SOURCE -- The Federal Communications Commission
In the Matter of WT Docket No. 98-143 RM-9148 RM-9150 RM-9196
1998 Biennial Regulatory Review
Amendment of Part 97 of the Commission's Amateur Service Rules.
REPORT AND ORDER
Adopted: December 22, 1999 Released: December 30, 1999

You may now proceed to thank me for finally clearing this up.

73 DE John, KC2HMZ
Tonawanda, New York

John:

I've said it before, and I'll repeat it now: The FCC doesn't have the
best interests of the ARS in mind. The ARS is an administrative
liability for the FCC, and they would be more motivated to deregulate
it as much as possible than to bolster licensing requirements in any
meaningful way. Therefore, the FCC's words must be taken with
a grain of salt, and I'm on a self-imposed low-sodium diet.

73 de Larry, K3LT