Implementation of the Final Acts of the 2015 World Radio Communication Conference, 67160-67189 [2023-19383]

Agencies

• FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMMISSION

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 188 (Friday, September 29, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 67160-67189]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-19383]


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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMMISSION

47 CFR Parts 2, 25, 74, 78, 90, 97, and 101

[ET Docket No. 23-120; FCC 23-26; FR ID 163738]


Implementation of the Final Acts of the 2015 World Radio 
Communication Conference

AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: In this document, the Federal Communications Commission 
(Commission) proposes implementation of certain allocation decisions 
from the Final Acts of the World Radiocommunication Conference 2015 
(WRC-15 Final Acts) concerning portions of the radio spectrum between 
5330.5 kHz and 29.5 GHz, other spectrum allocation changes, and related 
updates to the Commission's service rules.

DATES: Interested parties may file comments on or before October 30, 
2023; and reply comments on or before November 28, 2023. All filings 
must refer to ET Docket No. 23-120.

ADDRESSES: Comments may be submitted, identified by ET Docket No. 23-
120, by any of the following methods:
     Electronic Filers: Comments may be filed electronically 
using the internet by accessing the Commission's Electronic Comment 
Filing System (ECFS): https://apps.fcc.gov/ecfs/. See Electronic Filing 
of Documents to Rulemaking Proceedings, 63 FR 24121 (1998).
     Paper Filers: Parties who choose to file by paper must 
file an original and one copy of each filing.
     Filings can be sent by commercial overnight courier, or by 
first-class or overnight U.S. Postal Service mail. All filings must be 
addressed to the Commission's Secretary, Office of the Secretary, 
Federal Communications Commission.
     Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service 
Express Mail and Priority Mail) must be sent to 9050 Junction Drive, 
Annapolis Junction, MD 20701.

[[Page 67161]]

     U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority 
mail must be addressed to 45 L Street NE, Washington, DC 20554.
     Effective March 19, 2020, and until further notice, the 
Commission no longer accepts any hand or messenger delivered filings. 
This is a temporary measure taken to help protect the health and safety 
of individuals, and to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19. See FCC 
Announces Closure of FCC Headquarters Open Window and Change in Hand-
Delivery Policy, Public Notice, DA 20-304 (March 19, 2020). https://www.fcc.gov/document/fcc-closes-headquarters-open-window-and-changes-hand-delivery-policy.
    Alternative formats are available for people with disabilities 
(braille, large print, electronic files, audio format), by sending an 
email to [email protected] or calling the Consumer and Governmental 
Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-418-0432 (TTY).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For additional information on this 
proceeding, contact Patrick Forster of the Office of Engineering and 
Technology, Policy and Rules Division, Spectrum Policy Branch, at (202) 
418-7061 or [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a summary of the Commission's Notice 
of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in ET Docket No. 23-120; FCC 23-26, 
adopted on April 18, 2023, and released on April 21, 2023. The full 
text of this document is available for public inspection online at 
https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/FCC-23-26A1.pdf.
    Paperwork Reduction Act. This document does not contain proposed 
information collection(s) subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 
1995 (PRA), Public Law 104-13. In addition, therefore, it does not 
contain any new or modified information collection burden for small 
business concerns with fewer than 25 employees, pursuant to the Small 
Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002, Public Law 107-198, see 44 
U.S.C. 3506(c)(4).
    Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis. As required by the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, as amended (RFA), the Commission 
has prepared an Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) of the 
possible significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities of the proposals addressed in this NPRM. The full IRFA is 
found in Appendix C at https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/FCC-23-26A1.pdf. Written public comments are requested on the IRFA. These 
comments must be filed in accordance with the same filing deadlines for 
comments on the NPRM, and they should have a separate and distinct 
heading designating them as responses to the IRFA. The Commission's 
Consumer and Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, 
will send a copy of the NPRM, including the IRFA, to the Chief Counsel 
for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration, in accordance with 
the RFA.
    Ex Parte Rules--Permit but Disclose. Pursuant to Sec.  1.1200(a) of 
the Commission's rules, this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) shall 
be treated as a ''permit-but-disclose'' proceeding in accordance with 
the Commission's ex parte rules. Persons making ex parte presentations 
must file a copy of any written presentation or a memorandum 
summarizing any oral presentation within two business days after the 
presentation (unless a different deadline applicable to the Sunshine 
period applies). Persons making oral ex parte presentations are 
reminded that memoranda summarizing the presentation must (1) list all 
persons attending or otherwise participating in the meeting at which 
the ex parte presentation was made, and (2) summarize all data 
presented and arguments made during the presentation. If the 
presentation consisted in whole or in part of the presentation of data 
or arguments already reflected in the presenter's written comments, 
memoranda, or other filings in the proceeding, the presenter may 
provide citations to such data or arguments in his or her prior 
comments, memoranda, or other filings (specifying the relevant page 
and/or paragraph numbers where such data or arguments can be found) in 
lieu of summarizing them in the memorandum. Documents shown or given to 
Commission staff during ex parte meetings are deemed to be written ex 
parte presentations and must be filed consistent with rule 1.1206(b). 
In proceedings governed by rule 1.49(f) or for which the Commission has 
made available a method of electronic filing, written ex parte 
presentations and memoranda summarizing oral ex parte presentations, 
and all attachments thereto, must be filed through the electronic 
comment filing system available for that proceeding, and must be filed 
in their native format (e.g., .doc, .xml, .ppt, searchable .pdf). 
Participants in this proceeding should familiarize themselves with the 
Commission's ex parte rules.

Synopsis

    In the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), the Commission 
proposes to: (1) implement certain WRC-15 allocation decisions not 
previously addressed; (2) make other allocation changes that are not 
related to WRC-15 implementation; and (3) revise parts 2, 25, 74, 78, 
90, 97, and 101 of the rules to reflect the proposed allocation 
changes. Proposals that are not related to WRC-15 implementation are: 
(1) restricting the use of the mobile-satellite service (Earth-to-
space) in the frequency bands designated for use by the Automatic 
Identification System (AIS 1-4) to non-Federal space station reception 
of AIS messages; (2) deleting the broadcasting service allocation from 
the 700 MHz band; (3) updating the rules to recognize that the 
transition period for the reallocation of the 18.3-19.3 GHz band from 
the fixed service to the fixed-satellite service (space-to-Earth) has 
concluded; and (4) removing eight inactive call signs from Sec.  
2.106(d)(62) (footnote NG62 or NG62).

A. Satellite Issues

1. Protection of Search and Rescue Satellites Receiving in the 406-
406.1 MHz Band

    The Commission proposes to adopt new Sec.  2.106(c)(265) (footnote 
US265 or US265) for the 403-410 MHz band to protect satellite-based 
search and rescue systems operating in the 406-406.1 MHz band from out-
of-band emissions originating from operations in adjacent bands, as 
provided in Resolution 205 (Rev.WRC-19). The Commission's rules 
authorize Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacon, Emergency Locator 
Transmitter, and Personal Locator Beacon transmissions to Federal 
Government satellites that carry Search and Rescue Satellite (SARSAT) 
receivers. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 
operates polar orbiting and geostationary satellites that carry 
payloads providing distress alert and location information to 
appropriate public safety rescue authorities for maritime, aviation, 
and land users in distress. 47 CFR 80.209(a)(7), 80.905(a)(3)(vi), 
(a)(4)(vi), 80.1077, 80.1129(c), 87.139(h), 87.147(e), 87.173(b), 
87.187(m), 87.195(a), 87.199, 95.2963, and 95.2971. Proposed US265 
would prohibit new frequency assignments within the 405.9-406.0 MHz and 
406.1-406.2 MHz bands under the mobile and fixed services allocations. 
Assignment (of a radio frequency or radio frequency channel) is defined 
as an authorization given by an administration for a radio station to 
use a radio frequency or radio frequency channel under specified 
conditions. 47 CFR 2.1(c). In general, the assignment of

[[Page 67162]]

frequencies and frequency bands must be in accordance with the 
Allocation Table. 47 CFR 2.102(a). The radio frequency devices 
authorized pursuant to 47 CFR part 15 are not based on allocated radio 
services. Note 1 to paragraph (e) of Sec.  2.105. The term ``short-
range radiocommunication devices'' is intended to cover radio 
transmitters that have low capability of causing interference to other 
radio equipment. In general, such devices are permitted to operate on a 
non-interference, no-protection-from-interference basis. Simple 
licensing requirements may be applied, e.g. general licenses or general 
frequency assignments or even license exemption. See Recommendation 
ITU-R SM.1538-1, Annex 1, p. 2 at 2 (Definition of short-range 
radiocommunication devices). Medical Device Radio Communications 
(MedRadio) devices, similar to part 15 devices, are short-range 
devices.
    For radiosonde applicants that seek to operate in the 403-410 MHz 
band, proposed US265 would require that the frequency drift 
characteristics of radiosondes be taken into account when selecting 
operating frequencies above 405 MHz to avoid transmitting in the 406-
406.1 MHz band and that all practical steps be taken to avoid the 
operating frequency drifting close to 406 MHz. The 403-406 MHz band is 
a Federal/non-Federal shared band that is allocated to the 
meteorological aids service (radiosonde) on a primary basis. The 
Commission licenses radiosondes under its part 5 experimental radio 
service; however, there are currently no active licenses for non-
Federal radiosonde use of the 403-406 MHz band. 47 CFR part 5. Proposed 
US265 seeks to address concerns that aggregate levels of 
electromagnetic interference, including interference from transmissions 
in adjacent frequency bands, may present a risk of satellite emergency 
transmissions being undetected, or delayed in reception, or lead to 
reduced accuracy of the calculated locations. The Commission seeks 
comment on this proposal.
    Currently, non-Federal use of the fixed and mobile services in the 
adjacent 403-406 MHz and 406.1-410 MHz bands is permitted pursuant to 
47 CFR 2.106(c)(13), (55), (64) (footnotes US13, US55, and US64, or 
US13, US55, and US64). Footnote US64 states, inter alia, that the 401-
406 MHz band is allocated to the mobile, except aeronautical mobile, 
service on a secondary basis, and that non-Federal use is limited to 
medical device radiocommunication service (MedRadio) operations. 
MedRadio is an ultra-low power radio service that is associated with 
medical implant devices and medical body-worn devices. MedRadio 
stations are licensed-by-rule and operate in accordance with part 95, 
subpart I of the rules, so the Commission does not issue individual 
station licenses for MedRadio devices. Hence, the Commission 
tentatively concluded that continued operations of MedRadio devices are 
consistent with proposed US265. The Commission seeks comment on this 
tentative conclusion.
    Section 2.106(c)(13) (footnote US13 or US13) and Sec.  90.265 of 
the Commission's rules make 48 channels available for transmitting 
hydrological and meteorological data (Hydro channels), including 
channels with center frequencies 406.125 MHz and 406.175 MHz. The 
Commission proposes to revise Sec. Sec.  2.106 and 90.265 to state 
that, after the effective date of final rules in this proceeding, no 
assignments for the frequencies 406.1250 MHz and 406.1750 MHz will be 
made, and that existing stations may continue to operate indefinitely 
on these frequencies as they are currently licensed. As of April 18, 
2023, 63 licenses in the Commission's Universal Licensing System 
authorized operation in the 406.125-406.175 MHz band. This NPRM does 
not modify those licenses. By no longer issuing licenses for the 
frequencies 406.1250 MHz and 406.1750 MHz, the Commission would ensure 
consistency with proposed new footnote US265 and protect satellite-
based search and rescue systems operating in the adjacent 406-406.1 MHz 
band from out-of-band emissions originating on those frequencies. The 
Commission seeks comment on these proposals.
    Section 2.106(c)(55) (footnote US55 or US55) provides that the 
Commission may authorize public safety use of 40 Federal 
Interoperability Channels that are designated in section 4.3.16 of the 
NTIA Manual. However, because section 4.3.16 of the NTIA Manual does 
not include frequencies within the 406.1-406.2 MHz sub-band, it is not 
necessary to amend the language of this footnote. Finally, the 
Commission proposes to update Sec.  2.106(c)(117) (footnote US117 or 
US117) to properly reflect that non-Federal use of the 406.1-410 MHz 
band is limited to the radio astronomy service and as provided by 
footnotes US13 and US55, as shown in the proposed rules. This proposed 
revision of US117 was overlooked when the Commission originally adopted 
US55. The Commission seeks comment on these proposals, including any 
estimates of the costs and benefits of implementation.
2. Space Research Service (Space-to-Space) in the 410-420 MHz Band
    The Commission proposes to allocate the 410-420 MHz band to the 
space research service (space-to-space) on a secondary basis for non-
Federal use, and add Sec.  2.106(b)(268) (footnote 5.268) to the non-
Federal Table of Allocations in the 410-420 MHz band, which would limit 
use of this added space research service allocation to communication 
links with an orbiting, manned space vehicle and require compliance 
with a power flux-density limit at the Earth's surface to protect 
existing and future licensees. Footnote 5.268 limits the power flux-
density (PFD) at the surface of the Earth to maximum specified values 
(-153 to -148 dBW/m\2\ in a 4 kilohertz bandwidth) depending on the 
angle of arrival and prohibits stations in the space research service 
from claiming protection from, or constraining the use and development 
of, stations of the fixed and mobile services. 47 CFR 2.106(b)(268). 
The 410-420 MHz band is currently allocated to the fixed, mobile, and 
space research (space-to-space) services on a primary basis for Federal 
use; the 413-419 MHz segment is allocated to the mobile, except 
aeronautical mobile, service on a secondary basis, with non-Federal use 
limited to part 95 MedRadio operations. 47 CFR 2.106(a). The National 
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) operates systems in support 
of extra-vehicular activity communications for the manned space program 
and other space related efforts in this band. The systems are used for 
communications between crew members and for relaying telemetry data to 
the main spacecraft. Non-Federal use is limited to MedRadio operations, 
hydrological/meteorological data, and public safety. The Commission 
expects that the additional non-Federal use would be similar to the 
current Federal uses and would occur because of increasing space 
exploration by private companies. The Commission requests comment on 
these proposals, including information on the costs and benefits.
3. Global Flight Tracking for Civil Aviation (1087.7-1092.3 MHz)
    The Commission proposes to allocate the 1087.7-1092.3 MHz band to 
the aeronautical mobile-satellite (route) service (Earth-to-space) on a 
primary basis, limited to space station reception of automatic 
dependent surveillance-broadcast (ADS-B) emissions from aircraft. If 
adopted, the Commission would implement this proposed allocation by 
referencing Sec.  2.106(b)(328)(ii) (footnote 5.328AA) in

[[Page 67163]]

the 960-1164 MHz band within the U.S. Table. The 960-1164 MHz band is 
currently allocated to the aeronautical mobile (route) and aeronautical 
radionavigation services on a primary basis for Federal and non-Federal 
use. Aircraft currently transmit ADS-B signals to report their position 
to ground-based receivers in a 4.6-megahertz wide band centered on 1090 
MHz under the existing aeronautical mobile (route) service allocation. 
This proposed allocation would extend reception of ADS-B signals beyond 
terrestrial line-of-sight to facilitate reporting the position of 
aircraft located anywhere in the world. The Commission tentatively 
concluded that providing for satellite reception of ADS-B signals would 
ensure the efficient management of air traffic in oceanic, polar, and 
remote airspace. Further, the Commission tentatively concluded that 
this proposed allocation would support the Federal Aviation 
Administration's rules regarding aircraft location information. The 
Commission also proposes to add new paragraph (a)(13) to Sec.  25.202 
of the Commission's rules to permit the licensing of space stations 
that can receive ADS-B emissions from aircraft. The Commission seeks 
comment on these proposals.
    Further, as recommended by the National Telecommunications and 
Information Administration (NTIA), the Commission proposes to add new 
paragraph (78) to Sec.  2.106(c) (footnote US78 or US78) to the 960-
1164 MHz band to recognize Federal use by military Identification 
Friend or Foe (IFF) systems on center frequencies 1030/1090 MHz. The 
Commission proposes this use would be subject to the condition that 
harmful interference would not be caused to the aeronautical 
radionavigation service or the aeronautical mobile (R) service. 
Finally, the Commission proposes to revise Sec.  2.106(c)(224) 
(footnote US224 or US224) to require that Federal systems utilizing 
spread spectrum techniques for terrestrial communication, navigation, 
and identification in the 960-1215 MHz band be authorized on the 
condition that harmful interference not be caused to the aeronautical 
mobile (R) and aeronautical radionavigation services in the 960-1164 
MHz band, military IFF systems on center frequencies 1030/1090 MHz, 
aeronautical mobile-satellite (R) service (Earth-to-space) in the 
1087.7-1092.3 MHz band, and the aeronautical radionavigation and 
radionavigation-satellite (space-to-Earth) (space-to-space) services in 
the 1164-1215 MHz band. The Commission requests comment on these 
proposals, including whether any modifications to the part 87 rules for 
aviation services would be necessary to implement these proposals.
4. Satellite Uplinks in the 7190-7250 MHz Band
    As recommended by NTIA, the Commission seeks comment on whether to 
provide additional spectrum on a secondary basis for non-Federal Earth-
to-space operations in the Earth exploration-satellite service in the 
7190-7250 MHz band and space research service in the 7190-7235 MHz 
band. In the U.S. Table, the 7190-7250 MHz band is allocated to the 
Earth exploration-satellite (Earth-to-space) and fixed services, both 
on a primary basis and exclusively for Federal use. The 7190-7235 MHz 
portion of the band is also allocated on a primary basis to the space 
research service (Earth-to-space) exclusively for Federal use.
    Consistent with NTIA's recommendation, should the Commission make 
these Federal uplink bands available for non-Federal use on a secondary 
basis for Earth-to-space operations in the Earth exploration-satellite 
and space research services, respectively, by adding the provisions of 
proposed Sec. Sec.  2.106(c)(460) and (460)(i) (footnote US460 or 
US460; footnote US460A or US460A) to the 7190-7235 MHz band and 
footnote US460A to the 7235-7250 MHz band? Footnote US460 would provide 
a secondary non-Federal allocation in the 7190-7235 MHz band for the 
space research service (Earth-to-space) and would prohibit emissions 
from such systems intended for deep space. Footnote US460A would 
allocate the 7190-7250 MHz band to the Earth exploration-satellite 
service (Earth-to-space) on a secondary basis for non-Federal use, 
limited to tracking, telemetry, and command (TT&C) for the operation of 
spacecraft. The restrictions in footnotes US460 and US460A are based on 
international Sec. Sec.  2.106(b)(460), (460)(i) (footnotes 5.460 and 
5.460A, or 5.460 and 5.460A). In both cases, should the Commission 
explicitly require that authorizations be subject to a case-by-case 
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) analysis and approval? Qualcomm 
urged the Commission to seek comment on whether such allocations would 
``remain in line with the Commission's present spectrum priorities,'' 
noting that the Chairwoman has identified the 7-15 GHz spectrum range, 
and some stakeholders, other administrations, and regional 
organizations are considering the 7190-7250 MHz band for the next 
generation wireless technology. The Commission requests comment on 
these recommendations.
5. Earth Exploration-Satellite Service (Active) in the 9.2-9.3 GHz and 
9.9-10.4 GHz Bands
    The Commission seeks comment on allocating the 9.2-9.3 GHz and 9.9-
10.4 GHz bands to the Earth exploration-satellite service (active) on a 
primary basis for Federal use and on a secondary basis for non-Federal 
use, subject to Sec. Sec.  2.106(b)(474)(i), (b)(474)(ii), 
(b)(474)(iii), and proposes Sec.  2.106(c)(474) (footnotes 5.474A, 
5.474B, 5.474C, and US474D, or 5.474A, 5.474B, 5.474C, and US474D, 
respectively). Footnote US474D is based on the text in Sec.  
2.106(b)(474)(iv) (international footnote 5.474D or 5.474D), except 
that the radiolocation service is not included in the 9.2-9.3 GHz band 
because this allocation has secondary status in both the Federal and 
non-Federal Tables, and the radionavigation service is not included in 
the 9.9-10 GHz band because that allocation only applies in the 
countries listed in Sec.  2.106(b)(478) (footnote 5.478 or 5.478). This 
would implement WRC-15's expansion of the current worldwide Earth 
exploration-satellite service (active) allocation in the 9.3-9.9 GHz 
band by allocating 600 megahertz of additional spectrum in the adjacent 
bands to this service, which would support the growing demand for 
greater radar image resolution to satisfy global environmental 
monitoring requirements. Spaceborne radars operating in this band 
support a large number of scientific and geoinformation applications, 
such as disaster relief and humanitarian aid, land use, and large area 
coastal surveillance. The Commission requests comment on these 
potential allocations.
    In the U.S. Table, the 9.2-9.3 GHz band is allocated to the 
maritime radionavigation service on a primary basis and to the 
radiolocation service on a secondary basis for Federal and non-Federal 
use, subject to Sec. Sec.  2.106(b)(472), (b)(474), (c)(110), and 
(e)(59) (footnotes 5.472, 5.474, US110, and G59, or 5.472, 5.474, 
US110, and G59, respectively. The 9.9-10.5 GHz band is allocated to the 
radiolocation service on a primary basis for Federal use and on a 
secondary basis for non-Federal use. The 9.975-10.025 GHz band is also 
allocated to the meteorological-satellite service on a secondary basis 
for use by weather radars. 47 CFR 2.106(b)(479). The 10-10.5 GHz and 
10.45-10.5 GHz bands are allocated to the amateur and amateur-satellite 
services on a secondary basis, respectively. Five footnotes apply to 
the 10-10.5 GHz band: 47 CFR

[[Page 67164]]

2.106(b)(479), (c)(108), (c)(128), (d)(50), and (e)(32) (footnotes 
5.479, US108, US128, NG50, and G32, or 5.479, US108, US128, NG50, and 
G32, respectively). The 2023 World Radiocommunication Conference will 
consider whether to identify the 10-10.5 GHz for International Mobile 
Telecommunications (IMT) in ITU Region 2.
    The four footnotes on which the Commission seeks comment on adding 
to the 9.2-9.3 GHz and 9.9-10.4 GHz bands would limit their use to 
systems in the Earth exploration-satellite service (active) requiring a 
necessary bandwidth greater than 600 megahertz that cannot be fully 
accommodated within the 9.3-9.9 GHz band (5.474A (Sec.  
2.106(b)(474)(i))); protect the radio astronomy service in the 10.6-
10.7 GHz band from unwanted emissions (5.474B (Sec.  
2.106(b)(474)(ii))); protect the space research service (space-to-
Earth) in the 8.4-8.5 GHz band from unwanted emissions (5.474C (Sec.  
2.106(b)(474)(iii))); and require that the Earth exploration-satellite 
service (active) not cause harmful interference to, or claim protection 
from, the maritime radionavigation service in the 9.2-9.3 GHz band and 
the radiolocation service in the 9.9-10.4 GHz band (proposed US474D 
(Sec.  2.106(c)(474)). Qualcomm urged the Commission to seek comment on 
whether the proposed allocations would ``remain in line with the 
Commission's present spectrum priorities,'' noting that the Chairwoman 
has identified the 7-15 GHz spectrum range, and some stakeholders, 
other administrations, and regional organizations are considering the 
9.2-9.3 GHz and 9.9-10.4 GHz bands for the next generation wireless 
technology.
    The Commission also proposes to revise Sec.  2.106(c)(128) 
(footnote US128 or US128) to support the Department of Defense's 
development of pulsed emission systems in the 10-10.5 GHz band. 
Currently, US128 prohibits pulsed emissions in the 10-10.5 GHz band, 
except for weather radars on board meteorological satellites in the 10-
10.025 GHz sub-band. Under footnote US128, the amateur, the amateur-
satellite, and the non-Federal radiolocation services, which shall not 
cause harmful interference to the Federal radiolocation service, are 
the only non-Federal services permitted in the 10-10.5 GHz band, and 
the non-Federal radiolocation service is limited to survey operations 
as specified in Sec.  2.106(c)(108) (footnote US108 or US108). NTIA 
states that the Department of Defense requires flexibility for 
development of pulsed systems in this band to meet future system needs. 
The Commission seeks comment on all of the proposals in this section. 
In addition, it requests comment on whether the 9.2-9.8 GHz and 9.9-
10.4 GHz bands should be allocated to the Earth exploration-satellite 
service (active) on a primary basis for non-Federal use, so the status 
of those non-Federal allocations would mirror the status of the Federal 
Earth exploration-satellite service (active) allocations in those 
bands.
6. Revision of the 18.142-19.3 GHz, 28.5-29.1 GHz, and 29.25-29.5 GHz 
Bands
    In this section, the Commission makes proposals and seeks comments 
on allocation and service rule changes that would clarify the status of 
grandfathered fixed stations in the 18.3-19.3 GHz band and permit a 
heavier use of the fixed-satellite service (FSS) in the 18.142-18.3 
GHz, 28.5-29.1 GHz, and 29.25-29.5 GHz bands.
    First, the Commission proposes to amend Sec.  2.106(c)(139) 
(footnote US139 or US139) by stating that, in the 18.3-19.3 GHz band, 
earth station licensees in the fixed-satellite service (space-to-Earth) 
may require that licensees of grandfathered stations in the fixed 
service cease operations, consistent with the provisions in Sec.  
101.95 of the Commission's rules. The Commission makes this proposal 
because, in the 18.3-19.3 GHz band, there is no fixed service 
allocation and there are no longer any primary grandfathered fixed 
stations. Specifically, Sec.  101.85 states that fixed service 
operations in the 18.3-18.58 GHz and 18.58-19.3 GHz bands that remain 
co-primary under the provisions of Sec. Sec.  74.502(c), 74.602(g), 
78.18(a)(4), and 101.147(r) will continue to be co-primary with the 
fixed-satellite service (FSS) until dates that have long since passed, 
i.e., these transition periods have concluded. In addition, Sec.  
101.95(a), which concerns the sunset provisions for the 18.3-19.3 GHz 
band, includes the following: Once the relocation rules sunset, an FSS 
licensee may require the incumbent to cease operations, provided that 
the FSS licensee intends to turn on a system within interference range 
of the incumbent, as determined by TIA Bulletin 10-F or any standard 
successor. FSS licensee notification to the affected FS (fixed service) 
licensee must be in writing and must provide the incumbent with no less 
than six months to vacate the spectrum. After the six-month notice 
period has expired, the FS licensee must turn its license back into the 
Commission, unless the parties have entered into an agreement that 
allows the FS licensee to continue to operate on a mutually agreed upon 
basis. 47 CFR 101.85(b)(1) and (2), 101.95(a). Consequently, the 
Commission also proposes to revise Sec. Sec.  74.502(c), 74.602(g), 
78.18(a)(4), and 101.147(r) of the rules in order to update the 
introductory text and the frequencies that are available to applicants 
of aural broadcast auxiliary stations, television broadcast auxiliary 
stations, cable television relay service, and fixed microwave services, 
respectively. These proposals are consistent with the Commission's 
previous decision concerning the re-channelization of the 17.7-18.3 GHz 
and 19.3-19.7 GHz bands for fixed microwave services under part 101 of 
the rules. While most of the proposed changes remove channels that are 
no longer allocated to the fixed service, in one instance the 
Commission proposes to add replacement channels, i.e., the Commission 
proposes to replace the 12 frequency pairs in Sec.  74.502(c)(1)(i) of 
the rules with the 5 megahertz channels from Sec.  101.147(r)(5) in the 
proposed rules. The Commission also proposes to update Sec. Sec.  
101.95(a) and 101.147(a) to remove expired text and to remove six 
sections concerning expired policies governing fixed service relocation 
from the 18.3-19.3 GHz band, i.e., Sec. Sec.  101.83 through 101.91 and 
101.97. The Commission requests comment on these proposals.
    Second, the Commission proposes to revise Sec.  2.106(d)(62) 
(footnote NG62 or NG62) to permit the fixed stations authorized 
pursuant to the 10 listed call signs to continue to operate 
indefinitely on a secondary basis. The Commission adopted footnote NG62 
when it deleted the primary fixed and mobile service allocations from 
the 28.5-29.1 GHz and 29.25-29.5 GHz bands. Footnote NG62 states that, 
in the 28.5-29.1 GHz and 29.25-29.5 GHz bands, stations in the fixed-
satellite service shall not cause harmful interference to, or claim 
protection from, stations in the fixed service operating under 18 
listed call signs; however, only 10 of these call signs are currently 
active. The Commission noted that WRC-19 and the Commission's rules 
permit earth stations in motion (ESIMs) to operate in these frequency 
bands. The proposed secondary status of these fixed stations would 
recognize that ESIMs, which may operate anywhere without coordination 
with the fixed stations, may cause intermittent interference to these 
fixed stations. The Commission requests comment on these proposals.
    Third, the Commission requests comment on whether it should raise 
the non-Federal secondary fixed-satellite service (space-to-Earth) 
allocation in the

[[Page 67165]]

18.142-18.3 GHz band (158 megahertz) to primary status, i.e., co-equal 
with the non-Federal primary fixed service allocation in the band. If 
adopted, this upgrade of allocation status would provide receiving 
earth stations with interference protection from later-licensed fixed 
stations that are used for part 74 and part 101 Multichannel Video 
Programming Distributor (MVPD) and part 78 cable television relay 
service (CARS) operations that operate in accordance with the proposed 
rules in this section. The Commission tentatively concluded this should 
result in significantly heavier earth station use of this band in the 
future, thereby enhancing spectrum efficiency. As background, the 
Commission noted that there are seven part 78 CARS licenses, which are 
located in three California counties and Maui Island, Hawaii; and 35 
grandfathered fixed service licenses that authorize operations in the 
18.142-18.3 GHz band. In contrast, as of August 26, 2022, there are 222 
licenses for earth station reception in the 18.142-18.3 GHz band and 
there are 414 pending applications for earth stations that would 
receive in the band.
    Finally, the Commission requests comment on whether it should allow 
the continued operation of existing CARS licenses that authorize 
operation in the 18.3-18.304 GHz and 18.3-18.334 GHz bands in Puu 
Nianiau, Hawaii, and Placerville, California, respectively, and revise 
Sec.  2.106(c)(139) (footnote US139 or US139) to codify that these 
fixed station operations may continue to operate indefinitely under the 
existing conditions.
7. Deletion of the Radionavigation-Satellite Service From the 149.9-
150.05 MHz and 399.9-400.05 MHz Bands
    Consistent with the WRC-15 Final Acts, the Commission proposes to 
delete the radionavigation-satellite service allocation from the 149.9-
150.05 MHz and 399.9-400.05 MHz bands. WRC-15 deleted this allocation 
because it had expired pursuant to footnote 5.224B. In the U.S. Table, 
the 149.9-150.05 MHz and 399.9-400.05 MHz bands are Federal/non-Federal 
shared bands that are allocated to the mobile-satellite service (Earth-
to-space) and the radionavigation-satellite service on a primary basis. 
This proposal would make these two bands--totaling 300 kilohertz--
exclusively allocated to the mobile-satellite service (Earth-to-space). 
The Commission seeks comment on this proposal.

B. Terrestrial Issues

1. Amateur Service in the 5351.5-5366.5 kHz Band
    The Commission proposes to allocate the 5351.5-5366.5 kHz band to 
the Amateur Radio Service on a secondary basis and seeks comment on 
whether the amateur service should keep the existing channels they use 
in the 60 meter band. During WRC-15, the International 
Telecommunication Union (ITU) allocated this band to the amateur 
service on a secondary basis in all ITU Regions. The ITU generally set 
the maximum radiated power at 15 watts (W) equivalent isotropically 
radiated power (EIRP), which is equivalent to 9.15 W effective radiated 
power (ERP).
    These frequencies are currently part of the 5275-5450 kHz band, 
which is allocated for Federal/non-Federal shared use, on a primary 
basis, to the fixed service and, on a secondary basis, to the mobile 
except aeronautical mobile service. Section 2.106(c)(23) (footnote US23 
or US23) currently provides a secondary allocation to the amateur 
service on five discrete channels--each with a maximum bandwidth of 2.8 
kilohertz and centered on the frequencies 5332, 5348, 5358.5, 5373, and 
5405 kHz. While footnote US23 does not have an explicit bandwidth 
limit, it limits use of these frequencies to specified emission types 
and designators, which in effect limit the bandwidth to a maximum of 
2.8 kilohertz, i.e. phone (2K80J3E), data (2K80J2D), RTTY [narrow-band 
direct-printing telegraphy emissions having specified designators] 
(60H0J2B), and CW [International Morse code telegraphy emissions having 
specified designators] (150HA1A). 47 CFR 2.101, 2.102, 2.106(c)(23), 
97.3(c)(1), (c)(7). However, pursuant to Commission rules, stations in 
the amateur service may transmit on these frequencies with a maximum 
radiated power of 100 W ERP--over ten times more powerful than WRC-15's 
EIRP limit. Footnote US23 and Sec.  97.313(i) of the Commission's rules 
state that amateur service use of these frequencies is restricted to a 
maximum ERP of 100 watts ``PEP'' and that no station may transmit with 
an ERP exceeding 100 watts ``PEP,'' respectively. These requirements 
are inconsistent with the definitions in part 97 of the Commission's 
rules, i.e., PEP is the average power supplied to the antenna 
transmission line by a transmitter during one RF cycle at the crest of 
the modulation envelope taken under normal operating conditions and ERP 
is the product of the power supplied to the antenna and its gain 
relative to a half-wave dipole in a given direction. 47 CFR 97.3(b)(2), 
(3), (9). The Commission's review found that these rules were intended 
to limit the radiated power to 100 watts ERP based on the 2006 
agreement between NTIA and the American Radio Relay League, the 
National Association for Amateur Radio (ARRL) and, to minimize 
confusion, the Commission refers to this limit in its discussion. 
Petition for Rule Making of ARRL, RM-11353, at Exhibit A (filed Oct. 
10, 2006); 47 CFR 97.313(k), (l). NTIA recommended that the Commission 
conform footnote US23 to the WRC-15 Final Acts by allocating the 
5351.5-5366.5 kHz band to the amateur service on a secondary basis, 
removing the four existing amateur channels outside this proposed new 
amateur band, and restricting the maximum radiated power of amateur 
operations in the band to 15 W EIRP. Federal agencies use the larger 
5275-5450 kHz band for services that include military, law enforcement, 
disaster relief, emergency, and contingency operations. Most non-
Federal operations in the 60 meter band are part 90 industrial business 
pool land mobile operations.
    In 2017, ARRL filed a petition for rulemaking asking the Commission 
to allocate the 5351.5-5366.5 kHz band to the amateur service on a 
secondary basis, as provided in the WRC-15 Final Acts, and also to 
retain the four amateur service channels that are outside this band 
(i.e., the frequencies 5332 kHz, 5348 kHz, 5373 kHz, and 5405 kHz). 
Further, ARRL supports using the same operating rules in terms of 
permitted emission types, power level, and access by class of amateur 
licensee for the new contiguous allocation that is currently applied to 
the existing five amateur channels. Essentially, ARRL supports 
extending the provisions of footnote US23 and Sec.  97.303(h) of the 
Commission's rules that apply to the existing five amateur channels, 
including the 100 watt ERP limit, to the new allocation. Therefore, 
ARRL disagrees with applying the 15 W EIRP limit suggested in the WRC-
15 Final Acts. While most commenters supported implementation of the 
ARRL Petition as filed, some commenters disagreed with various aspects 
of the ARRL Petition as addressed below. Some even argue that the 
entire 60 meter band should be opened for amateur use at higher power 
because they are not aware of any complaints of harmful interference. 
Finally, the Commission noted that Canada has essentially implemented 
the same rules as ARRL has requested.
    The Commission proposes to modify footnote US23 and part 97 of its 
rules

[[Page 67166]]

to implement the new international allocation at 5351.5-5366.5 kHz, but 
also seeks comment on whether it should maintain the existing four 
channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz that are outside of the new 
allocation. Specifically, the Commission proposes to make the following 
amendments to part 97 of the rules: (1) replace the five center 
frequencies with the 5351.5-5366.5 kHz band in Sec.  97.301(b) through 
(d) and 97.305(c); (2) simplify the frequency sharing requirements in 
Sec.  97.303(h) by stating that amateur stations transmitting in the 
band must not cause harmful interference to, and must accept 
interference from, stations authorized by the United States and other 
nations in the fixed service; and other nations in the mobile except 
aeronautical mobile service; and (3) revise the emission standard in 
Sec.  97.307(f)(14) by removing unneeded text, including the unneeded 
upper sideband and Morse telegraphy restrictions (as requested by ARRL 
in its petition).
    Under this proposal, amateurs would have access to a contiguous 15 
kilohertz-wide band. Allowing amateurs to use these internationally-
harmonized frequencies could facilitate amateur communications across 
international borders. The Commission noted however, there is 
significant opposition from the amateur community regarding the removal 
of the four discrete channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz from 
amateur use, as requested by NTIA. An argument could be made that 
amateur operations should remain on harmonized international 
frequencies because of the long-range propagation of these frequencies. 
Further, amateur licensees also have access to other high frequency 
(HF) bands at 3 and 7 MHz, so the Commission believed there should be 
sufficient spectrum options for amateur operations without deviating 
from the internationally harmonized spectrum. However, some commenters 
contended that the amateur community has been using the four discrete 
channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz that fall outside of the 
proposed band for some time and argue that these channels are important 
in responding to disasters. The Commission seeks comment on this issue 
and what spectrum in the 60 meter band should be made available for 
amateur use.
    Alternatively, the Commission seeks comment on whether the four 
discrete channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz should be kept 
available for limited amateur use under certain conditions or only in 
response to disasters. For example, could the channels be authorized 
for amateur use during disasters as part of the Military Auxiliary 
Radio System (MARS) or SHAred RESources High Frequency Radio (SHARES) 
programs where participating amateur licensees can operate on Federal 
channels in coordination with the Department of Defense or Department 
of Homeland Security, respectively? Should the Commission permit 
amateur stations participating in established emergency communications 
programs such as the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) or the 
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) to use the additional 
channels or operate at higher power during emergencies and drills? 
Could the discrete channels be maintained under lower power or under 
other conditions that might reduce their potential to interfere with 
primary allocation services in the band? If so, the Commission invites 
comment on whether the existing discrete channels should continue to be 
used for secondary amateur use and under what rules and conditions.
    While many amateur commenters argued they should be permitted 
access to more of the 60 meter band because they are not aware of any 
complaints of interference arising from their current operations, the 
Commission noted there are a variety of important non-Federal and 
Federal fixed and mobile except aeronautical mobile service operations 
in the band where even rare instances of interference could endanger 
public safety. Therefore, the Commission tentatively finds that the 
spectrum requirements for the amateur service in the 5005-5450 kHz band 
should be met by the WRC-15 amateur band and that only the four 
existing amateur channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz that are 
outside this band should be considered in this proceeding. 
Nevertheless, the Commission seeks comment on this idea. Commenters 
that support expanded access to the 60 meter band should provide 
information regarding how heavily the five amateur frequencies in the 
5275-5450 kHz band are used and why additional amateur spectrum in this 
frequency range is needed if the Commission adopts the proposed 
allocation.
    Power. ARRL sought a maximum radiated power limit of 100 W ERP for 
the new secondary amateur allocation and to maintain the existing 
maximum radiated power limit of 100 W ERP for the existing discrete 
channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz. ARRL argued that such an 
implementation would support amateurs engaged in emergency and disaster 
relief communications to more reliably, flexibly, and capably conduct 
those communications; that imposing a maximum radiated power limit of 
15 W EIRP would render the band unsuitable for emergency and public 
service communications; that the lower power limit is insufficient to 
permit reliable communications on the paths that are most critical; and 
that this reduced radiated power limit is not necessary to protect 
primary services from interference.
    Harold Ross Lambert and Michael Goltz argued that the power limit 
should be increased to 500 W to deal with propagation challenges in 
disaster communications; and Milton K. Miller supports 500 W power with 
the use of more efficient antennas. Phillip Finkle urged for at least 
200 W of power designated as output power instead of ERP because ERP is 
difficult to measure. Janis Carson initially expressed concern over 
allowing U.S. amateurs to operate at much higher powers than the 
international standard, suggesting a compromise power of 30 W because 
digital modes are very effective at lower power and world-wide 
communications can be achieved at lower power levels like 5 W. However, 
in later comments Ms. Carson supported the ARRL proposal to allow 100 W 
for ``more reliable communications in an environment of high static 
crashes.'' William Springer urged the adoption of the 15 W power limit 
in the WRC-15 Final Acts because he contends that newer digital modes 
are more efficient, and so weaker signals are not an impediment to 
achieving communication. Finally Hugh Bahar cautioned that deviating 
from limits agreed to at the international level is unwise and could 
lead to other countries ignoring the standards and could be viewed as 
an act of bad faith.
    Several commenters also argued for more flexibility in the types of 
antennas permitted in the 60 meter band. Scott Wright and George 
Dominick contend that antennas with gain greater than 0 dBi should be 
allowed since they are essential for efficient communications during an 
emergency. In contrast, Mathew Pitts does not support increasing the 
permitted antenna gain and contends the power should range between 15 
and 30 W.
    The Commission seeks comment on the appropriate power limit for the 
new internationally harmonized amateur allocation and for the discrete 
channels if they are maintained for amateur use. The Commission 
tentatively concludes that limiting the radiated power of amateur 
stations to 15 W EIRP would reduce the potential of harmful 
interference to incumbent primary operations, while maintaining

[[Page 67167]]

consistency with the power limits established internationally for 
amateur operations in this band. However, the majority of the amateur 
comments are opposed to lower power limits and neighboring countries in 
Region 2 permit power levels higher than 15 W EIRP. The Commission 
agrees with certain commenters that the long-range propagation 
capabilities of these frequencies is likely to allow efficient 
communications at low-power levels, but there may be instances where 
more power is needed to deal with propagation challenges.
    The Commission acknowledges that valid arguments may exist for 
adopting power limits above 15 W up to 100 W. For example, Sec.  
2.106(b)(133)(ii) (footnote 5.133B or 5.133B), which addresses this 
international allocation, outlines a power limit of 20 W EIRP for 
Mexico and 25 W EIRP for all Latin American countries and for many 
Caribbean countries/territories. Further, a review of the Commission's 
licensing database indicates other licenses with higher allocation 
status operating at power levels ranging from 15 W up to as high as 
5000 W. Accordingly, the Commission seeks to build a more comprehensive 
record on the appropriate power limit for 60-meter band amateur 
operations. Interested parties seeking a power limit above the proposed 
15 W EIRP limit should explain how much power would be appropriate, and 
how higher power limits would affect other operations in the 60-meter 
band? For example, should the Commission allow the higher power allowed 
in other countries in ITU Region 2, such as Mexico and most Caribbean 
countries? Should the Commission allow higher power during times of 
emergency drills/response or as part of programs where Amateur 
licensees support Federal emergency response? Should higher power only 
be permitted during disasters or drills supporting disaster relief? If, 
going forward, the discrete channels are permitted to be used by 
amateur operators under certain parameters or during disasters, what 
power limits should apply and when? What other conditions or 
considerations should be applied to amateur use of the 60 meter band?
    Further, the Commission seeks comment on how the limit should be 
specified in the rules. Specifically, should the power limit be defined 
in terms of EIRP to be consistent with the WRC-15 recommendation, or 
through some other means, such as ERP or transmitter output power? 
While some commenters argue that radiated power limits are difficult to 
calculate for certain types of antennas, the Commission finds that 
amateur licensees are supposed to study the radio arts and should be 
capable of determining their operating power. The Commission seeks 
comment on the pros and cons of various power limit alternatives and 
which method is best for the 60 meter band. If the Commission adopts a 
radiated power limit, it does not propose to adopt antenna limitations 
because a radiated power limit would ensure that excess power is not 
used, and flexibility in antenna choices may lead to spectrum 
efficiencies because the signal will propagate in its intended 
direction. Nevertheless, the Commission seeks comment on whether, and, 
if so what, antenna limitations are appropriate for amateur operations 
in this band using these different power limit measurements and how the 
Commission's decision could affect how these frequencies would be used 
by the amateur community.
    Channelization. ARRL and several commenters argued that the new 
allocation should not designate sub-bands for various modes of 
operation to enable maximum flexibility to avoid interference with 
other operations. Janis Carson contended channelization is wasteful 
because narrowband modes can operate at less than three kilohertz and 
flexibility is need to address prevailing circumstances. She added that 
a maximum bandwidth of 500 Hertz should be allowed in the new 
contiguous allocation. Charles Powell supported the ARRL request and 
contends that amateur equipment is not designed to maintain a high 
level of frequency accuracy and that such a design change would make 
equipment prohibitively expensive. However, William Springer argued 
that the new allocation should be channelized into five 3 kilohertz 
channels to promote efficiency and avoid overlapping transmissions. 
Benjamin Russell also supported five discrete channels, but suggests 
creating ten overlapping channels for narrowband carrier wave (CW) use. 
Ronald F Henry contends that channelization would facilitate sharing 
with Federal users and, given there are several bands available for 
amateur use, the ``60 Meter band must be set aside for emergency 
communications as the primary use and as such, channelization is 
desired to protect both the primary and secondary user.''
    The Commission proposes that the 5351.5-5366.5 kHz band should not 
be channelized or have sub-bands. Due to the wide variety of potential 
applications and the need to protect other communications, dividing the 
band into channels may lead to inefficient spectrum use. However, the 
Commission agrees with commenters who state that some wideband digital 
emissions could create spectrum sharing problems, and so the Commission 
proposes a maximum emission bandwidth of 2.8 kilohertz for amateur 
operations in this band. The Commission seeks comment on this proposal 
and whether there are other limits or technical rule changes necessary 
to ensure reliable and efficient use of this band.
    Station Class and Permitted Uses. ARRL and certain other commenters 
stated that only amateurs with a General Class license or higher should 
be allowed to use the new allocation, because Technician Class license 
holders may not have the experience to operate consistent with the 
interference avoidance protocols needed for the band. William Springer 
opposed the allowance of CW transmissions in the band because he 
contends that they are outdated and inefficient, but supported the use 
of any commonly-available, unencrypted digital transmission mode 
limited by a maximum occupied bandwidth that fits within the channel. 
Scott Wright supported the allowance of CW, arguing that several CW 
emissions can fit within a small amount of bandwidth. Janis Carson and 
Hugh Bahar opposed the allowance of automatically controlled digital 
stations and wideband digital modes that could block the entire 
allocation and could cause interference without busy channel detection. 
In her reply comments, Ms. Carson added that the new allocation should 
be used for narrowband digital or CW and that the discrete channels, 
along with the one 3 kHz channel contained within the new allocation, 
could remain for use of single-side band (SSB) voice or wider digital 
modes. Ms. Carson also suggested not allowing any automatic store and 
forward email systems in the 60 meter band, claiming that these systems 
have a high potential to cause interference due to the ``hidden 
transmitter'' effect, where the offshore initiating station cannot hear 
a primary user in the skip zone of the shore based relay station. 
Finally, W. Lee McVey contended that the 60 meter band rules should 
ensure that only publicly documented digital codes operate in the band 
to prohibit encrypted communications.
    Consistent with the current amateur class requirements for the 60 
meter band (see 47 CFR 97.301), the Commission proposes to permit 
amateurs holding a General Class license or higher to use the 5351.5-
5366.5 kHz band. The Commission agrees with commenters

[[Page 67168]]

that the long-range propagation characteristics in the band combined 
with the need to protect important safety of life communications by 
Federal operations potentially requires a higher level of radio 
knowledge to ensure the spectrum is properly shared. The Commission 
seeks comment on this proposal. Further, if the Commission maintains 
the four existing discrete channels at 5332, 5348, 5373, and 5405 kHz 
outside of the international allocation, the Commission proposes that 
those channels also be permitted for General Class licensees or higher. 
The Commission seeks comment on this proposal and other alternatives. 
For example, if the Commission adopts the new allocation and keeps the 
existing discrete channels, should different amateur classes be 
permitted on the new allocation versus the discrete channels? If the 
Commission allows station classes below General Class licensees to 
access the 60 meter band, what conditions should be applied? For 
example, should certain classes be permitted to operate in certain 
modes (i.e., voice vs. digital) or at certain times (e.g., only in 
response to a disaster)? Given the limited spectral resource at issue, 
commenters supporting more flexible use should support their comments 
with suggested safeguards or ideas on how the spectrum can be 
efficiently used without interfering with primary allocation 
operations.
    At this time, the Commission does not propose to preclude CW or any 
other radio technique currently permitted in the 60 meter band because 
the record is inconclusive on whether certain modulation methods should 
be prohibited. However, the Commission notes that the amateur rules 
generally preclude encrypted operations, and so seeks comment on 
whether the 60 meter band rules need to be clearer on what types of 
digital operations are permitted. As discussed above, the Commission 
proposes to limit the emission bandwidth to 2.8 kilohertz, which may 
limit some techniques. The Commission seeks comment on these proposals 
and encourages the amateur community to attempt to reach consensus on 
what radio techniques should be permitted, given the limited amount of 
spectrum available, the need to use this spectrum efficiently, and the 
importance of ensuring that the primary users are protected from 
harmful interference.
2. Amateur Service in the 420-450 MHz Band
    Based on a request from NTIA, the Commission proposes to update the 
coordination and contact information in Sec.  2.106(c)(270) (footnote 
US270 or US270) for the areas wherein the peak envelope power of an 
amateur station operating in the 420-450 MHz (70 cm) band is generally 
limited to 50 watts, and to revise the cross reference to footnote 
US270 in Sec.  97.313(f) of the rules. The Commission requests comment 
on these proposals.
3. Maritime On-Board Communication Stations (457/467 MHz)
    The Commission proposes to revise Sec.  2.106(c)(288) (footnote 
US288 or US288) to make a limited number of narrowband channels from 
the international channel plan adopted at WRC-15 available for use by 
on-board communication stations. An on-board communication station is a 
low-powered mobile station in the maritime mobile service used for 
internal communications on board a ship, or between a ship and its 
lifeboats and life-rafts during lifeboat drills or operations, or for 
communication within a group of vessels being towed or pushed, as well 
as for line handling and mooring instructions. The Commission's 
proposals are intended to benefit the maritime industry by making 
available a subset of the internationally-harmonized narrowband 
channels for on-board communication use while ships are in U.S. 
territorial waters. The Commission's overarching goals in making these 
proposals are to minimize the potential for intermittent and harmful 
interference to stations in the land mobile and fixed services that 
operate on the same or adjacent frequencies to on-board communication 
stations and to promote more efficient and effective use of the 
available spectrum, while fully meeting the operational requirements of 
ship station licensees for on-board communication stations.
    Sections 2.106(c)(288) and 80.373(g) of the rules make seven 
internationally-harmonized frequencies in the 457.5125-457.5875 MHz and 
467.5125-467.5875 MHz bands (150 kilohertz) and five other frequencies 
available for use by on-board communication stations in U.S. 
territorial waters (275 kilohertz in total). Specifically, Sec.  
80.373(g)(1) states that the frequencies 457.525 MHz, 457.550 MHz, 
457.575 MHz, and 457.600 MHz may be used by on-board repeater stations 
and by unpaired on-board mobile stations (i.e., single-frequency 
simplex operation) and that four frequencies in the 467.7375-467.8375 
MHz band (i.e., 467.750, 467.775, 467.800, and 467.825 MHz) may be used 
by on-board mobile stations in two-frequency repeater systems. In 
addition, Sec.  80.373(g)(2) states that, where needed, equipment 
designed for 12.5 kilohertz channel spacing using the additional 
frequencies 457.5375 MHz, 457.5625 MHz, 467.5375 MHz, and 467.5625 MHz 
(i.e., channels 12, 14, 22, and 24) may be introduced for on-board 
communications; however, no use of these channels is currently 
authorized.
    WRC-15 revised the international channel plan for on-board 
communication stations to provide for 6.25 kilohertz channels. This new 
channel plan, shown in table 1 below, specifies 40 frequencies that 
support the use of equipment designed to operate on 25, 12.5, or 6.25 
kilohertz channels. Channels 1, 2, 3, 12, 14, 22, and 24 as shown in 
Table 1 indicate the internationally-harmonized channels that are 
currently available for use under the Commission's rules.

[[Page 67169]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP29SE23.044

    To permit the deployment of more spectrally efficient narrowband 
equipment, the Commission proposes to revise footnote US288 by 
authorizing on-board communication stations to use 12.5 and 6.25 
kilohertz channels in the territorial waters of the United States as 
described in the following paragraphs.
    First, the Commission proposes to revise footnote US288 to 
authorize: (1) nationwide use of channels 11-15, which are 
internationally-harmonized 12.5 kilohertz channels, for on-board 
repeater stations and on-board mobile stations used for single-
frequency simplex operation; (2) on-board mobile stations to operate 
nationwide on five non-harmonized frequencies that are 10.225 megahertz 
higher in frequency than the center frequency of their associated on-
board repeater stations (frequencies shown in table 2, below); and (3) 
on-board repeater stations to operate on channels 12 and 14 and 
associated on-board mobile stations operating on channels 22 and 24, 
respectively, in the Territorial Sea of the United States and at 
coastal ports and the inland ports of Baton Rouge, Houston, and 
Portland, and on the waterways and at other ports between these inland 
ports and the ocean. The Commission requests comment on these 
proposals. The Commission's proposal would make two new frequencies 
(467.7625 and 467.7875 MHz) available for use by on-board communication 
stations and would authorize the use of eight existing frequencies with 
twice the power spectral density (PSD) in their narrower authorized 
bandwidth, which increases the potential for harmful interference to 
nearby stations of the fixed and land mobile services that also operate 
on these frequencies. PSD is defined as the ``power of an emission in 
the frequency domain, such as in terms of ERP or EIRP, stated per unit 
bandwidth, e.g., watts/MHz.'' 47 CFR 22.99. Currently, the part 80 
rules limit the ERP of on-board communication stations in the 456-468 
MHz band to 2 watts in a 25 kilohertz channel (80 mW/kHz). If the 
Commission authorizes the same ERP in 6.25 kilohertz, then the PSD 
would double (160 mW/kHz), thereby increasing the potential for harmful 
interference over the signal's bandwidth because the signal's power is 
concentrated over a narrower bandwidth. The Commission intends to 
address the PSD issue in any subsequent service rules proceeding.

 Table 2--Center Frequencies for 12.5 Kilohertz On-board Paired Channels
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                On-board repeater      On-board mobile
           Channel                   station               station
------------------------------------------------------------------------
US11........................  Channel 11--457.5250  467.7500 MHz.
                               MHz.
US12........................  Channel 12--457.5375  467.7625 MHz.
                               MHz.
US13........................  Channel 13--457.5500  467.7750 MHz.
                               MHz.
US14........................  Channel 14--457.5625  467.7875 MHz.
                               MHz.
US15........................  Channel 15--457.5750  467.8000 MHz.
                               MHz.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Second, the Commission proposes to revise footnote US288 to 
authorize on-board repeater stations and on-board mobile stations used 
for single-frequency simplex operation to operate on the 6.25 kilohertz 
channels 102, 121, 122, 141, and 142 and for on-board mobile stations 
operating with a repeater station to operate on the 6.25 kilohertz 
channels 202, 221, 222, 241, and 242, respectively, in the Territorial 
Sea of the United States and at coastal ports and the inland ports of 
Baton Rouge, Houston, and Portland, and on the waterways and at other 
ports

[[Page 67170]]

between these inland ports and the ocean. The Commission requests 
comment on this proposal, noting that eight of these channels overlap 
the 12.5 kilohertz channels that the Commission is proposing in the 
previous paragraph (i.e., channels 12, 14, 22, and 24) and that 
channels 102 and 202 are between low-power part 90 channels. The 
Commission requests comment on these proposals, noting that the use of 
6.25 kilohertz channels with center frequencies that are offset from 
the frequencies used by stations in the fixed and land mobile services 
by 6.25 kilohertz are expected to enhance spectrum sharing. The 
Commission also solicits comment on whether it should authorize the use 
of channel pairs 121/221 on those waterways in the contiguous United 
States that the Department of Transportation has designated as part of 
America's Marine Highway.
    The Commission also proposes to revise the text of footnote US288 
to state that, in the territorial waters of the United States, Sec.  
2.106(b)(287) (footnote 5.287 or 5.287) applies, except that on-board 
communication stations must transmit only on the listed frequencies and 
must operate as specified herein. On-board repeater stations and mobile 
stations used for single-frequency simplex operation currently may 
transmit only in the band 457.5125-457.6125 MHz. The Commission 
proposes that the preferred frequencies for repeater systems would be 
457.525 MHz (channel 1 or 11), 457.5375 MHz (channel 12), 457.550 MHz 
(channel 2 or 13), 457.5625 MHz (channel 14), 457.575 MHz (channel 3 or 
15), and 457.600 MHz paired, respectively, with 467.750 MHz, 467.7625 
MHz, 467.775 MHz, 467.7875 MHz, 467.800 MHz, and 467.825 MHz; and the 
preferred frequencies for single-frequency operations would be those 
designated as channels 1-3, 11-15, and 121. Finally, the Commission 
proposes that use of channels 122, 141, and 142 and channel pairs 12/
22, 14/24, 102/202, 121/221, 122/222, 141/241, and 142/242 would be 
authorized at coastal ports and the inland ports of Houston, Baton 
Rouge, and Portland, and along the waterways and at other ports between 
these inland ports and the ocean; however, on-board communication 
stations would not be able to transmit on these channels while in port 
and not underway or preparing to get underway. The Commission seeks 
comment on these proposals.
    Finally, the Commission proposes to revise Sec.  2.106(c)(287) 
(footnote US287 or US287) by allocating the 457.5125-457.6125 MHz, 
467.512375-467.518625 MHz, 467.55625-467.56875 MHz, 467.53125-467.54375 
MHz, and 467.7375-467.8375 MHz bands (231.25 kilohertz) to the maritime 
mobile service on a primary basis, by limiting the use of these 
allocations to on-board communication stations, and by stating that, in 
these frequency bands, stations in the fixed and land mobile services 
may not claim protection from interference caused by on-board 
communication stations operating in accordance with US288 and that on-
board communication stations may not claim protection from stations in 
the fixed and land mobile services. Alternatively, the Commission 
requests comment on whether existing part 90 Private Land Mobile and 
part 95 Personal Radio Service licensees operating in the 456-470 MHz 
band should be afforded any protection from interference caused by on-
board communication stations operating in accordance with US288. The 
Commission observes that the 456-470 MHz band is allocated to the 
mobile service on a primary basis in all ITU Regions, and requests 
comment on the public interest benefits of both the Commission's 
proposal and the alternative.

4. Deletion of the Broadcasting Service From the 700 MHz Band

    The Commission proposes to delete the broadcasting service 
allocation in the 698-758 MHz, 775-788 MHz, and 805-806 MHz bands from 
the non-Federal Table and to revise Sec.  2.106(d)(159) (footnote NG159 
or NG159) by removing the reference to part 74, subpart G. Between 1998 
and 2010, the Commission transitioned the 698-806 MHz (700 MHz) band 
from television broadcasting use (i.e., TV channels 52-69) to public 
safety and mobile broadband uses. Currently, the entire 700 MHz band is 
allocated to the fixed and mobile services on a primary basis, but the 
broadcasting service allocation still remains in the 698-758 MHz, 775-
788 MHz, and 805-806 MHz portions on a primary basis, and licensees in 
those bands have the flexibility to provide broadcast services, if they 
choose. The Commission requests comment on the Commission's proposal. 
In the event that the Commission deletes the broadcast allocation as 
proposed, the Commission seeks comment on whether, and which, part 27 
service rules should be modified to reflect the change (e.g., 
Sec. Sec.  27.3 (Other Applicable Rule Parts), 27.4 (Terms and 
Definitions), 27.10 (Regulatory Status), 27.13 (License Period), 27.50 
(Power Limits and Duty Cycle), and 27.55 (Power Strength Limits)).

5. Deletion of Footnote NG155

    The Commission proposes to remove Sec.  2.106(d)(155) (footnote 
NG155 or NG155) from the rules because the frequencies and frequency 
bands to which it applies are not authorized in part 80 of the 
Commission's rules. The ITU has identified the frequencies that can 
generally be used worldwide for intership communications. Thus, the 
Commission tentatively concludes that there is no need to specify any 
other frequencies for intership use. The Commission notes that, in the 
Second Report and Order in PR Docket No. 92-257 that added footnote 
NG155 to the Commission's rules, the Commission declined to adopt the 
proposed rules for part 80 regarding maritime sharing of private land 
mobile radio frequencies for intership communications. The Commission 
requests comments on this proposal.

C. Other Matters

    As a result of discussions regarding the protection of near-Earth 
operations of deep space missions, WRC-15 added a provision in Article 
4 of the Radio Regulations (No. 4.24) to describe the use of space 
research service (deep space) allocations. Similarly, the Commission 
proposes to add a new paragraph to Sec.  2.102 of the Commission's 
rules to clarify that: ``Space research systems intended to operate in 
deep space may also use the space research service (deep space) 
allocations, with the same status as those allocations, when the 
spacecraft is near the Earth, such as during launch, early orbit, 
flying by the Earth and returning to the Earth.'' The Commission 
requests comment on this proposal.
    The Commission proposes to amend Sec.  2.1(c) of the rules to add 
or revise the definitions for the terms ``meteorological aids land 
station,'' ``meteorological aids mobile station,'' and ``coordinated 
universal time'' in accordance with the WRC-15 adopted definitions. The 
Commission also proposes to add a definition for the term ``frequency 
band'' based on that term's ITU definition. The Commission seeks 
comment on these definitions.
    The Commission proposes to amend Sec.  2.105(d) of the rules by 
stating that the footnote references which appear in the United States 
Table below the allocated service or services apply to more than one of 
the allocated services, or to the whole of the allocation concerned, 
and that the footnote references which appear to the right of the name 
of a service are applicable only to that particular service. See the 
proposed

[[Page 67171]]

rules for the proposed text of Sec.  2.105(d)(6) through (8), where the 
text in paragraph (d)(6) has been moved to paragraph (d)(8).
    In response to NTIA's recommendation that the Commission add a 
subset of the international footnotes that identify spectrum for 
International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) to the non-Federal Table, 
the Commission directed the Chief, Office of Engineering and Technology 
to maintain a ``Mobile Broadband Spectrum in the United States'' file 
on the ``Radio Spectrum Allocation'' web page. The Commission requests 
comment on whether this file meets the public's needs.
    Digital Equity and Inclusion. Finally, the Commission, as part of 
its continuing effort to advance digital equity for all, including 
people of color, persons with disabilities, persons who live in rural 
or Tribal areas, and others who are or have been historically 
underserved, marginalized, or adversely affected by persistent poverty 
or inequality, invites comment on any equity-related considerations and 
benefits (if any) that may be associated with the proposals and issues 
discussed herein. Specifically, the Commission seeks comment on how its 
proposals may promote or inhibit advances in diversity, equity, 
inclusion, and accessibility, as well as the scope of the Commission's 
relevant legal authority.

Ordering Clauses

    Accordingly, it is ordered that, pursuant to sections 1, 4(i), 
4(j), 7, 301, 303(c), 303(f), and 303(r) of the Communications Act of 
1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 151, 154(i), 154(j), 157, 301, 303(c), 
303(f), and 303(r), this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is hereby 
adopted.
    It is further ordered pursuant to Sec.  1.407 of the Commission's 
rules, 47 CFR 1.407, that the petition for rulemaking filed by the 
American Radio Relay League, Incorporated, Amendment of Parts 2 and 97 
of the Commission's Rules Regarding Implementation of the Final Acts of 
the World Radiocommunication Conference (Geneva, 2015) to Allocate the 
Band 5351.5-5366.5 kHz to the Amateur Radio Service, RM-11785, is 
granted in part.
    It is further ordered that the Commission's Consumer and 
Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, SHALL SEND a 
copy of this Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, including the 
Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis, to the Chief Counsel for 
Advocacy of the Small Business Administration.

List of Subjects

47 CFR Part 2

    Radio services, Spectrum allocations.

47 CFR Part 25

    Satellite communications (satellites, earth stations).

47 CFR Part 74

    Experimental radio, auxiliary, special broadcast, and other program 
distributional services.

47 CFR Part 78

    Cable television relay service.

47 CFR Part 90

    Private land mobile radio services.

47 CFR Part 97

    Amateur radio service.

47 CFR Part 101

    Fixed microwave radio services.

Federal Communications Commission.
Katura Jackson,
Federal Register Liaison Officer.

Proposed Rules

    For the reasons stated in the preamble, the Federal Communications 
Commission proposes to amend 47 CFR parts 2, 25, 74, 78, 90, 97, and 
101 as follows:

PART 2--FREQUENCY ALLOCATIONS AND RADIO TREATY MATTERS; GENERAL 
RULES AND REGULATIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 2 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 302a, 303, and 336, unless otherwise 
noted.

0
2. Amend Sec.  2.1(c) by revising the definition for ``Coordinated 
Universal Time (UTC)'', and adding, in alphabetical order, definitions 
for ``Frequency band (Band)'', ``Meteorological aids land station'', 
and ``Meteorological aids mobile station'', to read as follows:


Sec.  2.1  Terms and definitions.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). Time scale, based on the second 
(SI), as described in Resolution 655 (WRC-15). (RR)
* * * * *
    Frequency band (Band). A contiguous set of frequencies lying 
between two specified limiting frequencies. A frequency band is 
characterized by two values which define its position in the frequency 
spectrum, for example, its lower and upper limiting frequencies.
* * * * *
    Meteorological aids land station. A station in the meteorological 
aids service not intended to be used while in motion. (RR)
    Meteorological aids mobile station. A station in the meteorological 
aids service intended to be used while in motion or during halts at 
unspecified points. (RR)
* * * * *
0
3. Amend Sec.  2.102 by adding paragraph (i) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.102  Assignment of frequencies.

* * * * *
    (i) Space research systems intended to operate in deep space may 
also use the space research service (deep space) allocations, with the 
same status as those allocations, when the spacecraft is near the 
Earth, such as during launch, early orbit, flying by the Earth and 
returning to the Earth.
0
4. Amend Sec.  2.105 by revising paragraph (d)(6) and adding paragraphs 
(d)(7) and (8) to read as follows:


Sec.  2.105  United States Table of Frequency Allocations.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (6) The footnote references which appear in the United States Table 
below the allocated service or services apply to more than one of the 
allocated services, or to the whole of the allocation concerned.
    (7) The footnote references which appear to the right of the name 
of a service are applicable only to that particular service.
    (8) The coordinates of latitude and longitude that are listed in 
United States, Federal, and non-Federal footnotes are referenced to the 
North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83).
* * * * *
0
5. Amend Sec.  2.106 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph (a) Allocation Table pages 22, 24, 26 through 30, 
32, 45, 47, and 48;
0
b. Revising paragraphs (c)(13) and (23);
0
c. Adding paragraph (c)(78);
0
d. Revising paragraphs (c)(117), (128), (139), and (224);
0
e. Adding paragraph (c)(265);
0
f. Revising paragraphs (c)(270), (287), and (288);
0
g. Adding paragraphs (c)(460), (460)(i), and (474);
0
h. Revising paragraph (d)(62);
0
i. Removing and reserving paragraph (d)(155); and
0
j. Revising paragraph (d)(159).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

[[Page 67172]]

Sec.  2.106  Table of Frequency Allocations.

* * * * *
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* * * * *

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BILLING CODE 6712-01-C
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (13)(i) US13 The following center frequencies in table 2 to 
paragraph (c)(13)(i), each with a channel bandwidth not greater than 
12.5 kHz, are available for assignment to non-Federal fixed stations 
for the specific

[[Page 67183]]

purpose of transmitting hydrological and meteorological data in 
cooperation with Federal agencies, subject to the condition that 
harmful interference will not be caused to Federal stations:

                                         Table 2 to Paragraph (c)(13)(i)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              Hydro Channels (MHz)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
169.4250               170.2250               171.0250               171.8375               412.6625
169.4375               170.2375               171.0375               171.0500               412.6750
169.4500               170.2500               171.0500               171.8625               412.6875
169.4625               170.2625               171.0625               171.8750               412.7125
169.4875               170.2875               171.0875               171.9000               412.7375
169.5000               170.3000               171.1000               171.9125               412.7625
169.5125               170.3125               171.1125               171.9250               412.7750
169.5250               170.3250               171.1250               406.1250               415.1250
                                              171.8250               406.1750               415.1750
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) After [EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL RULE], no assignments on the 
frequencies 406.125 MHz and 406.175 MHz will be made, but stations with 
existing assignments may continue to operate on these frequencies.
* * * * *
    (23) US23 The band 5351.5-5366.5 kHz (60 m band) is allocated to 
the amateur service on a secondary basis. Amateur service use of the 60 
m band frequencies must meet the requirements in part 97 of these 
rules. Amateur operators using the data and RTTY emissions must 
exercise care to limit the length of transmissions so as to avoid 
causing harmful interference to Federal stations.
* * * * *
    (78) US78 Military systems used for Identification, Friend or Foe 
(IFF) operations are authorized to operate in the band 960-1164 MHz on 
center frequencies 1030 MHz for interrogators and 1090 MHz for 
transponders on the condition that harmful interference will not be 
caused to the aeronautical radionavigation service (ARNS) or the 
aeronautical mobile (R) service (AM(R)S). These IFF systems will be 
evaluated on a case-by-case basis using DoD and FAA mutually agreed 
upon methodologies, technical criteria, and characteristics for 
calculating potential interference between ARNS/AM(R)S systems and 
systems used for military or other National defense IFF operations. 
This will include using DoD and FAA mutually agreed upon methodologies 
and criteria for considering the aggregation of civil and military 
systems in the 1030 and 1090 MHz bands in the evaluation.
* * * * *
    (117) US117 In the band 406.1-410 MHz, the following provisions 
shall apply:
    (i) Stations in the fixed and mobile services are limited to a 
transmitter output power of 125 watts, and new authorizations for 
stations, other than mobile stations, are subject to prior coordination 
by the applicant in the following areas:
    (A) Within Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, contact 
Spectrum Manager, Arecibo Observatory, HC3 Box 53995, Arecibo, PR 
00612. Phone: 787-878-2612, Fax: 787-878-1861, Email: [email protected].
    (B) Within 350 km of the Very Large Array (34[deg]04'44'' N, 
107[deg]37'06'' W), contact Spectrum Manager, National Radio Astronomy 
Observatory, P.O. Box O, 1003 Lopezville Road, Socorro, NM 87801. 
Phone: 505-835-7000, Fax: 505-835-7027, Email: [email protected].
    (C) Within 10 km of the Table Mountain Observatory (40[deg]08'02'' 
N, 105[deg]14'40'' W) and for operations only within the sub-band 407-
409 MHz, contact Radio Frequency Manager, Department of Commerce, 325 
Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305. Phone: 303-497-4619, Fax: 303-497-6982, 
Email: [email protected].
    (ii) Non-Federal use is limited to the radio astronomy service and 
as provided by paragraphs (c)(13) and (c)(55) of this section.
* * * * *
    (128) US128 In the band 10-10.5 GHz, pulsed emissions are 
prohibited, except for the military services and for weather radars on 
board meteorological satellites in the sub-band 10-10.025 GHz. The 
amateur service, the amateur satellite service, and the non-Federal 
radiolocation service, which shall not cause harmful interference to 
the Federal radiolocation service, are the only non-Federal services 
permitted in this band. The non-Federal radiolocation service is 
limited to survey operations as specified in paragraph (c)(108) of this 
section.
* * * * *
    (139) US139 In the band 18.3-19.3 GHz, earth station licensees in 
the fixed-satellite service (space-to-Earth) may require that licensees 
of grandfathered stations in the fixed service cease operations in 
accordance with the provisions in Sec.  101.95 of this chapter.
* * * * *
    (224) US224 Federal systems utilizing spread spectrum techniques 
for terrestrial communication, navigation and identification may be 
authorized to operate in the band 960-1215 MHz on the condition that 
harmful interference will not be caused to the aeronautical mobile (R) 
and aeronautical radionavigation services in the band 960-1164 MHz, 
military Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems on center 
frequencies 1030/1090 MHz, aeronautical mobile-satellite (R) service 
(Earth-to-space) in the band 1087.7-1092.3 MHz, and the aeronautical 
radionavigation and radionavigation-satellite (space-to-Earth) (space-
to-space) services in the band 1164-1215 MHz. These systems will be 
handled on a case-by-case basis. Such systems are subject to a review 
at the national level for operational requirements and electromagnetic 
compatibility prior to development, procurement or modification.
* * * * *
    (265) US265 In accordance with Resolution 205 (Rev.WRC-19), the 
following provisions apply in the band 403-410 MHz:
    (i) New frequency assignments to stations in the fixed and mobile 
services will not be made within the bands 405.9-406.0 MHz and 406.1-
406.2 MHz.
    (ii) The frequency drift characteristics of radiosondes must be 
taken into account when selecting their operating frequencies above 405 
MHz to avoid transmitting in the band 406-406.1 MHz and all practical 
steps must be taken to avoid frequency drifting close to 406 MHz.
* * * * *

[[Page 67184]]

    (270) US270 In the band 420-450 MHz, the following provisions shall 
apply to the amateur service:
    (i) The peak envelope power of an amateur station shall not exceed 
50 watts in the following areas, unless expressly authorized by the FCC 
after mutual agreement, on a case-by-case basis, between the Regional 
Director of the applicable field office and the military area frequency 
coordinator at the applicable military base as listed in table 1 to 
paragraph (c)(270)(i).

                    Table 1 to Paragraph (c)(270)(i)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                    Geographic      Coordination contact
           Location                 limitation          information
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona.......................  None (statewide).  DoD AFC AZ, (520) 538-
                                                    6423.
                                                   DoD AFC AZ--DSN--879-
                                                    6423.
New Mexico....................  None (statewide).  DoD AFC WSMR--DSN--
                                                    258-5417.
Texas.........................  West of longitude  DoD AFC WSMR, (575)
                                 104[deg] W.        678-5417,
                                                    [email protected].
California....................  South of latitude  DoD Western AFC,
                                 37[deg]10' N.      (760) 939-6832.
                                                   DoD Western--DSN--437-
                                                    6832.
Nevada........................  South of latitude  Nevada AFC--DSN--875-
                                 37[deg]10' N.      0607.
                                                   Nevada AFC, (702) 679-
                                                    0607,
                                                    [email protected]
                                                   [email protected]
                                                    .
Point Mugu, CA................  Within 322 km of   NMCSO SW DSN 312-735-
                                 34[deg]09' N,      9889.
                                 119[deg]11' W.
                                                   NMCSO SW at (619)545-
                                                    9978,
                                                    [email protected].
Florida.......................  None (statewide).  DoD Eastern--DSN--467-
                                                    8436.
Patrick AFB, FL...............  Within 322 km of   DoD Eastern AFC,
                                 28[deg]21' N,      (321) 853-8426,
                                 080[deg]43' W.     [email protected].
Eglin AFB, FL.................  Within 322 km of   DoD Gulf--DSN--875-
                                 30[deg]30' N,      5648.
                                 086[deg]30' W.
                                                   DoD Gulf AFC, (850)
                                                    883-5982.
Beale AFB, CA.................  Within 240 km of   HQ SpOC Spectrum
Goodfellow AFB, TX............   39[deg]08' N,      Management Office,
                                 121[deg]26' W.     (719) 554-6400,
                                Within 200 km of    [email protected].
                                 31[deg]25' N,     HQ SpOC DSN--692-
                                 100[deg]24' W..    6400.
Warner Robins AFB, GA.........  Within 200 km of
                                 32[deg]38' N,
                                 083[deg]35' W.
Clear AFS, AK.................  Within 160 km of
                                 64[deg]17' N,
                                 149[deg]10' W.
Concrete, ND..................  Within 160 km of
                                 48[deg]43' N,
                                 097[deg]54' W.
Otis AFB, MA..................  Within 160 km of
                                 41[deg]45' N,
                                 070[deg]32' W.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (ii) In the sub-band 420-430 MHz, the amateur service is not 
allocated north of Line A (def. Sec.  2.1).
* * * * *
    (287) US287 The bands 457.5125-457.6125 MHz, 467.53125-467.54375 
MHz, 467.512375-467.518625 MHz, 467.55625-467.56875 MHz, and 467.7375-
467.8375 MHz are also allocated to the maritime mobile service on a co-
equal, primary basis with the non-Federal fixed and land mobile 
services. Use of these frequency bands by the maritime mobile service 
is limited to on-board communication stations. In these frequency 
bands, stations in the fixed and land mobile services may not claim 
protection from interference caused by on-board communication stations 
operating in accordance with paragraph (c)(288) of this section and on-
board communication stations may not claim protection from stations in 
the fixed and land mobile services.
    (288) US288 In the territorial waters of the United States, 
footnote 5.287 applies, except that on-board communication stations 
must transmit only on the listed frequencies and must operate as 
specified herein. On-board repeater stations and mobile stations used 
for single-frequency simplex operation may transmit only in the band 
457.5125-457.6125 MHz. The preferred frequencies for repeater systems 
are 457.525 MHz (channel 1 or 11), 457.5375 MHz (channel 12), 457.550 
MHz (channel 2 or 13), 457.5625 MHz (channel 14), 457.575 MHz (channel 
3 or 15), and 457.600 MHz paired, respectively, with 467.750 MHz, 
467.7625 MHz, 467.775 MHz, 467.7875 MHz, 467.800 MHz, and 467.825 MHz; 
and the preferred frequencies for single-frequency operations are 
channels 1-3, 11-15, and 121. Use of channels 122, 141, and 142 and 
channel pairs 12/22, 14/24, 102/202, 121/221, 122/222, 141/241, and 
142/242 is also authorized at coastal ports and the inland ports of 
Houston, Baton Rouge, and Portland, and along the waterways and at 
other ports between these inland ports and the ocean; however, on-board 
communication stations must not transmit on these channels while in 
port and not underway or preparing to get underway.
* * * * *
    (460) US460 The band 7190-7235 MHz is also allocated to the space 
research service (Earth-to-space) on a secondary basis for non-Federal 
use. No emissions from space research service (Earth-to-space) systems 
intended for deep space may be effected in this frequency band. 
Authorizations are subject to a case-by-case electromagnetic 
compatibility analysis and approval.
    (i) US460A The band 7190-7250 MHz is also allocated to the Earth 
exploration-satellite service (Earth-to-space) on a secondary basis for 
non-Federal use, limited to tracking, telemetry and command for the 
operation of spacecraft. Authorizations are subject to a case-by-case 
electromagnetic compatibility analysis and approval.
    (ii) [Reserved]
* * * * *
    (474) US474D Stations in the Earth exploration-satellite service 
(active) must not cause harmful interference to, or claim protection 
from, stations of the maritime radionavigation service in the band 9.2-
9.3 GHz and the radiolocation service in the band 9.9-10.4 GHz.
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (62) NG62 In the bands 28.5-29.1 GHz and 29.25-29.5 GHz, stations 
in the fixed service operating under the following call signs may 
operate indefinitely on a secondary basis: KIL20, KME49, KQG58, KQH74, 
KSA96, KSE73, KZS88, WML443, WMP367, and WSL69.
* * * * *
    (159) NG159 In the band 698-806 MHz, stations authorized under part 
74, subpart F of this chapter may continue to operate indefinitely on a 
secondary

[[Page 67185]]

basis to all other stations operating in that band.
* * * * *

PART 25--SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS

0
6. The authority citation for part 25 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 301, 302, 303, 307, 309, 310, 319, 
332, 605, and 721, unless otherwise noted.

.0
7. Amend Sec.  25.202 by adding paragraph (a)(13) to read as follows:


Sec.  25.202  Frequencies, frequency tolerance, and emission limits.

    (a) * * *
    (13) The 1087.7-1092.3 MHz band (center frequency 1090 MHz) is 
available for use by the aeronautical mobile-satellite (R) service 
(Earth-to-space) for the reception of Automatic Dependent Surveillance-
Broadcast (ADS-B) emissions from aircraft.
* * * * *

PART 74--EXPERIMENTAL RADIO, AUXILIARY, SPECIAL BROADCAST AND OTHER 
PROGRAM DISTRIBUTIONAL SERVICES

0
8. The authority citation for part 74 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 302a, 303, 307, 309, 310, 325, 336 and 
554.

0
9. Amend Sec.  74.502 by revising paragraphs (c) introductory text and 
(c)(1)(i) to read as follows:


Sec.  74.502  Frequency assignment.

* * * * *
    (c) The following frequencies are available for assignment to aural 
broadcast STL and intercity relay stations. Licensees in the fixed-
satellite service may require that licensees of grandfathered stations 
operating in the bands 18,760-18,820 MHz and 19,100-19,160 MHz cease 
operations in accordance with the provisions in Sec.  101.95 of this 
chapter.
    (1)(i) 5 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        1560 Megahertz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17702.5....................................................          n/a
17707.5....................................................          n/a
17712.5....................................................          n/a
17717.5....................................................          n/a
17722.5....................................................          n/a
17727.5....................................................          n/a
17732.5....................................................          n/a
17737.5....................................................          n/a
18062.5....................................................      19622.5
18067.5....................................................      19627.5
18072.5....................................................      19632.5
18077.5....................................................      19637.5
18082.5....................................................      19642.5
18087.5....................................................      19647.5
18092.5....................................................      19652.5
18097.5....................................................      19657.5
18102.5....................................................      19662.5
18107.5....................................................      19667.5
18112.5....................................................      19672.5
18117.5....................................................      19677.5
18122.5....................................................      19682.5
18127.5....................................................      19687.5
18132.5....................................................      19692.5
18137.5....................................................      19697.5
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
0
10. Amend Sec.  74.602 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph (g) introductory text;
0
b. Removing and reserving paragraph (g)(2); and
0
c. Revising paragraphs (g)(3) through (6);
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  74.602  Frequency assignment.

* * * * *
    (g) The following frequencies are available for assignment to 
television STL, television relay stations and television translator 
relay stations. Licensees may use either a two-way link or one or both 
frequencies of a frequency pair for a one-way link and shall coordinate 
proposed operations pursuant to procedures required in Sec.  101.103(d) 
of this chapter. Licensees in the fixed-satellite service may require 
that licensees of grandfathered stations operating in the 18.3-18.58 
GHz and 19.26-19.3 GHz bands cease operations in accordance with the 
provisions in Sec.  101.95 of this chapter.
    (1) * * *
    (2) [Reserved]
    (3) 10 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17705.0....................................................          n/a
17715.0....................................................          n/a
17725.0....................................................          n/a
17735.0....................................................          n/a
17745.0....................................................      19305.0
17755.0....................................................      19315.0
17765.0....................................................      19325.0
17775.0....................................................      19335.0
17785.0....................................................      19345.0
17795.0....................................................      19355.0
17805.0....................................................      19365.0
17815.0....................................................      19375.0
17825.0....................................................      19385.0
17835.0....................................................      19395.0
17845.0....................................................      19405.0
17855.0....................................................      19415.0
17865.0....................................................      19425.0
17875.0....................................................      19435.0
17885.0....................................................      19445.0
17895.0....................................................      19455.0
17905.0....................................................      19465.0
17915.0....................................................      19475.0
17925.0....................................................      19485.0
17935.0....................................................      19495.0
17945.0....................................................      19505.0
17955.0....................................................      19515.0
17965.0....................................................      19525.0
17975.0....................................................      19535.0
17985.0....................................................      19545.0
17995.0....................................................      19555.0
18005.0....................................................      19565.0
18015.0....................................................      19575.0
18025.0....................................................      19585.0
18035.0....................................................      19595.0
18045.0....................................................      19605.0
18055.0....................................................      19615.0
18065.0....................................................      19625.0
18075.0....................................................      19635.0
18085.0....................................................      19645.0
18095.0....................................................      19655.0
18105.0....................................................      19665.0
18115.0....................................................      19675.0
18125.0....................................................      19685.0
18135.0....................................................      19695.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (4) 20 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17710.0....................................................          n/a
17730.0....................................................          n/a
17750.0....................................................      19310.0
17770.0....................................................      19330.0
17790.0....................................................      19350.0
17810.0....................................................      19370.0
17830.0....................................................      19390.0
17850.0....................................................      19410.0
17870.0....................................................      19430.0
17890.0....................................................      19450.0
17910.0....................................................      19470.0
17930.0....................................................      19490.0
17950.0....................................................      19510.0
17970.0....................................................      19530.0
17990.0....................................................      19550.0
18010.0....................................................      19570.0
18030.0....................................................      19590.0
18050.0....................................................      19610.0
18070.0....................................................      19630.0
18090.0....................................................      19650.0
18110.0....................................................      19670.0
18130.0....................................................      19690.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (5) 40 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17720.0....................................................          n/a

[[Page 67186]]

 
17760.0....................................................      19320.0
17800.0....................................................      19360.0
17840.0....................................................      19400.0
17880.0....................................................      19440.0
17920.0....................................................      19480.0
17960.0....................................................      19520.0
18000.0....................................................      19560.0
18040.0....................................................      19600.0
18080.0....................................................      19640.0
18120.0....................................................      19680.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (6) 80 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17740.0....................................................          n/a
17820.0....................................................      19380.0
17900.0....................................................      19460.0
17980.0....................................................      19540.0
18060.0....................................................      19620.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

PART 78--CABLE TELEVISION RELAY SERVICE

0
11. The authority citation for part 78 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  47 U.S.C. 152, 153, 154, 301, 303, 307, 308, 309.

0
12. Amend Sec.  78.18 by:
0
a. Revising paragraph (a)(4) introductory text;
0
b. Removing and reserving paragraph (a)(4)(ii); and
0
c. Revising paragraphs (a)(4)(iii) through (vi).
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  78.18  Frequency assignments.

    (a) * * *
    (4) The Cable Television Relay Service is also assigned the 
following frequencies in the 17,700-18,300 MHz and 19,300-19,700 MHz 
bands. These frequencies are co-equally shared with stations in other 
services under parts 25, 74, and 101 of this chapter. Licensees in the 
fixed-satellite service may require that licensees of grandfathered 
stations operating in the 18.3-18.58 GHz and 19.26-19.3 GHz bands cease 
operations in accordance with the provisions in Sec.  101.95 of this 
chapter.
* * * * *
    (iii) 10 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17705.0....................................................          n/a
17715.0....................................................          n/a
17725.0....................................................          n/a
17735.0....................................................          n/a
17745.0....................................................      19305.0
17755.0....................................................      19315.0
17765.0....................................................      19325.0
17775.0....................................................      19335.0
17785.0....................................................      19345.0
17795.0....................................................      19355.0
17805.0....................................................      19365.0
17815.0....................................................      19375.0
17825.0....................................................      19385.0
17835.0....................................................      19395.0
17845.0....................................................      19405.0
17855.0....................................................      19415.0
17865.0....................................................      19425.0
17875.0....................................................      19435.0
17885.0....................................................      19445.0
17895.0....................................................      19455.0
17905.0....................................................      19465.0
17915.0....................................................      19475.0
17925.0....................................................      19485.0
17935.0....................................................      19495.0
17945.0....................................................      19505.0
17955.0....................................................      19515.0
17965.0....................................................      19525.0
17975.0....................................................      19535.0
17985.0....................................................      19545.0
17995.0....................................................      19555.0
18005.0....................................................      19565.0
18015.0....................................................      19575.0
18025.0....................................................      19585.0
18035.0....................................................      19595.0
18045.0....................................................      19605.0
18055.0....................................................      19615.0
18065.0....................................................      19625.0
18075.0....................................................      19635.0
18085.0....................................................      19645.0
18095.0....................................................      19655.0
18105.0....................................................      19665.0
18115.0....................................................      19675.0
18125.0....................................................      19685.0
18135.0....................................................      19695.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (iv) 20 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17710.0....................................................          n/a
17730.0....................................................          n/a
17750.0....................................................      19310.0
17770.0....................................................      19330.0
17790.0....................................................      19350.0
17810.0....................................................      19370.0
17830.0....................................................      19390.0
17850.0....................................................      19410.0
17870.0....................................................      19430.0
17890.0....................................................      19450.0
17910.0....................................................      19470.0
17930.0....................................................      19490.0
17950.0....................................................      19510.0
17970.0....................................................      19530.0
17990.0....................................................      19550.0
18010.0....................................................      19570.0
18030.0....................................................      19590.0
18050.0....................................................      19610.0
18070.0....................................................      19630.0
18090.0....................................................      19650.0
18110.0....................................................      19670.0
18130.0....................................................      19690.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (v) 40 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17720.0....................................................          n/a
17760.0....................................................      19320.0
17800.0....................................................      19360.0
17840.0....................................................      19400.0
17880.0....................................................      19440.0
17920.0....................................................      19480.0
17960.0....................................................      19520.0
18000.0....................................................      19560.0
18040.0....................................................      19600.0
18080.0....................................................      19640.0
18120.0....................................................      19680.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (vi) 80 MHz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                           1560 MHz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17740.0....................................................          n/a
17820.0....................................................      19380.0
17900.0....................................................      19460.0
17980.0....................................................      19540.0
18060.0....................................................      19620.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

PART 90--PRIVATE LAND MOBILE RADIO SERVICES

0
13. The authority citation for part 90 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  47 U.S.C. 154(i), 161, 303(g), 303(r), 332(c)(7), 
1401-1473.

0
14. Amend Sec.  90.265 by revising paragraph (a)(8) to read as follows:


Sec.  90.265  Assignment and use of frequencies in the bands allocated 
for Federal use.

    (a) * * *
    (8) After [EFFECTIVE DATE OF FINAL RULE], no assignments for the 
frequencies 406.1250 MHz and 406.1750 MHz will be made, but stations 
with existing assignments may continue to operate on these frequencies.
* * * * *

[[Page 67187]]

PART 97--AMATEUR RADIO SERVICE

0
15. The authority citation for part 97 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 47 U.S.C. 151-155, 301-609, unless otherwise noted.

0
16. Amend Sec.  97.301 by revising the entry for the ``60 m'' 
wavelength band in the table in paragraphs (b) through (d) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  97.301  Authorized frequency bands.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                               Sharing requirements see Sec.   97.303
                 Wavelength band                     ITU Region 1       ITU Region 2       ITU Region 3                     (paragraph)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
HF..............................................         MHz                MHz                MHz         .............................................
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
60 m............................................      5.3515-5.3665      5.3515-5.3665      5.3515-5.3665  (h).
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (c) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                               Sharing requirements see Sec.   97.303
                 Wavelength band                     ITU Region 1       ITU Region 2       ITU Region 3                     (paragraph)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
HF..............................................         MHz                MHz                MHz         .............................................
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
60 m............................................      5.3515-5.3665      5.3515-5.3665      5.3515-5.3665  (h).
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (d) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                               Sharing requirements see Sec.   97.303
                 Wavelength band                     ITU Region 1       ITU Region 2       ITU Region 3                     (paragraph)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
HF..............................................         MHz                MHz                MHz         .............................................
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
60 m............................................      5.3515-5.3665      5.3515-5.3665      5.3515-5.3665  (h).
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

0
17. Amend Sec.  97.303 by revising paragraph (h) to read as follows:


Sec.  97.303  Frequency sharing requirements.

* * * * *
    (h) Amateur stations transmitting on frequencies in the 60 m band 
must not cause harmful interference to, and must accept interference 
from, stations authorized by:
    (1) The United States (NTIA and FCC) and other nations in the fixed 
service; and
    (2) Other nations in the mobile except aeronautical mobile service.
* * * * *
0
18. Amend Sec.  97.305 by revising the entry for the ``60 m'' 
wavelength band in the table in paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  97.305  Authorized emission types.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Emission types     Standards see Sec.   97.307(f),
          Wavelength band                Frequencies            authorized                  (paragraph)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
HF:
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
    60 m..........................  5.3515-5.3665 MHz....  Phone, RTTY, data...  (14)
 

[[Page 67188]]

 
                                                  * * * * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

0
19. Amend Sec.  97.307 by revising paragraph (f)(14) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  97.307  Emission standards.

* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (14) In the 60 m band:
    (i) A station may transmit only phone, RTTY, data, and CW 
emissions. RTTY or data emissions shall meet the digital code 
specifications listed in Sec.  97.309. Emissions shall not exceed a 
bandwidth of 2.8 kilohertz.
    (ii) The control operator of a station transmitting data or RTTY 
emissions must exercise care to limit the length of transmissions so as 
to avoid causing harmful interference to United States Government 
stations.
0
20. Amend Sec.  97.313 by revising paragraphs (f) and (i) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  97.313  Transmitter power standards.

* * * * *
    (f) No station may transmit with a transmitter power exceeding 50 W 
PEP on the UHF 70 cm band from an area specified in paragraph (i) of 
footnote US270 in Sec.  2.106 of this chapter, unless expressly 
authorized by the FCC after mutual agreement, on a case-by-case basis, 
between the Regional Director of the applicable field facility and the 
military area frequency coordinator at the applicable military base. An 
Earth station or telecommand station, however, may transmit on the 435-
438 MHz segment with a maximum of 611 W effective radiated power (1 kW 
equivalent isotropically radiated power) without the authorization 
otherwise required. The transmitting antenna elevation angle between 
the lower half-power (-3 dB relative to the peak or antenna bore sight) 
point and the horizon must always be greater than 10[deg].
* * * * *
    (i) No station may transmit on frequencies in the 60 m band with a 
radiated power exceeding 15 W (insert value at order stage). For the 
purpose of computing EIRP, the transmitter PEP will be multiplied by 
the antenna gain relative to an isotropic antenna. An isotropic antenna 
will be presumed to have a gain of 1 (0 dBi). Licensees must maintain 
in their station records either the antenna manufacturer's data on the 
antenna gain or calculations of the antenna gain.
* * * * *

PART 101--FIXED MICROWAVE SERVICES

0
21. The authority citation for part 101 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  47 U.S.C. 154, 303.


Sec.  101.83  [Removed and Reserved]

0
22. Remove and reserve Sec.  101.83.


Sec.  101.85  [Removed and Reserved]

0
23. Remove and reserve Sec.  101.85.


Sec.  101.89  [Removed and Reserved]

0
24. Remove and reserve Sec.  101.89.


Sec.  101.91  [Removed and Reserved]

0
25. Remove and reserve Sec.  101.91.
0
26. Amend Sec.  101.95 by revising the section heading and paragraph 
(a) to read as follows:


Sec.  101.95  Provisions for grandfathered licensees in the 18.30-19.30 
GHz band.

    (a) The transition period for the 18.30-19.30 GHz band has 
concluded and thus FSS licensees are not required to pay relocation 
costs. FSS licensees may require the incumbent to cease operations, 
provided that the FSS licensee intends to turn on a system within 
interference range of the incumbent, as determined by TIA Bulletin 10-F 
or any standard successor. FSS licensee notification to the affected FS 
licensee must be in writing and must provide the incumbent with no less 
than six months to vacate the spectrum. After the six-month notice 
period has expired, the FS licensee must turn its license back into the 
Commission, unless the parties have entered into an agreement which 
allows the FS licensee to continue to operate on a mutually agreed upon 
basis.
* * * * *


Sec.  101.97  [Removed and Reserved]

0
27. Remove and reserve Sec.  101.97.
0
28. Amend Sec.  101.147 by:
0
a. In paragraph (a):
0
i. Revising the list of frequency bands; and
0
ii. Removing note 30;
0
b. Revising paragraph (r) introductory text;
0
d. Removing and reserving paragraph (r)(4); and
0
e. Revising paragraphs (r)(7), (8), (10), (12), and (13).
    The revisions read as follows:


Sec.  101.147  Frequency assignments.

    (a) * * *

928.0-929.0 MHz (28)
932.0-932.5 MHz (27)
932.5-935 MHz (17)
941.0-941.5 MHz (27)
941.5-944 MHz (17) (18)
952.0-960.0 MHz (28)
1,850-1,990 MHz (20) (22)
2,110-2,130 MHz) (1) (3) (7) (20) (23)
2,130-2,150 MHz (20) (22)
2,160-2,180 MHz (1) (2) (20) (23)
2,180-2,200 MHz (20) (22)
2,450-2,500 MHz (12)
2,650-2,690 MHz
3,700-4,200 MHz (8) (14) (25)
5,925-6,425 MHz (6) (14) (25)
6,425-6,525 MHz (24)
6,525-6.875 MHz (14) (33)
6,875-7,125 MHz (10), (34)
10,550-10,680 MHz (19)
10,700-11,700 MHz (8) (9) (19) (25)
11,700-12,200 MHz (24)
12,200-12,700 MHz (31)
12,700-13,200 (22), (34)
13,200-13,250 MHz (4) (24) (25)
14,200-14,400 MHz (24)
17,700-18,300 MHz (5) (10) (15)
19,300-19,700 MHz (5) (10) (15)
21,200-22,000 MHz (4) (11) (12) (13) (24) (25) (26)
22,000-23,600 MHz (4) (11) (12) (24) (25) (26)
24,250-25,250 MHz
29,100-29,250 MHz (5), (16)
31,000-31,300 MHz (16)
42,000-42,500 MHz
71,000-76,000 MHz (5) (17)
81,000-86,000 MHz (5) (17)
92,000-94,000 MHz (17)
94,100-95,000 MHz (17)
    (r) In the bands 17,700 to 19,700 and 24,250 to 25,250 MHz: 
Operation of stations using frequencies in these bands is permitted to 
the extent specified in this paragraph (r). Licensees, except 24 GHz 
band licensees, may use either a two-way link or one frequency of a 
frequency pair for a one-way link and must coordinate proposed 
operations pursuant to the procedures required in Sec.  101.103. The 
use of the band 18.3-19.3 GHz is limited to grandfathered stations. 
Licensees in the fixed-satellite service may require that licensees of 
grandfathered stations operating in the bands 18.3-19.3 GHz cease 
operations in accordance with the provisions in Sec.  101.95. (Note 
that stations authorized as of September 9, 1983, to use frequencies in 
the band 17.7-19.7 GHz may, upon proper application, continue to be 
authorized for such operations, consistent with the

[[Page 67189]]

above conditions related to the 18.3-19.3 GHz band.) Applicants for 
one-way spectrum from 17.7-18.3 GHz for multichannel video programming 
distribution are governed by paragraph (r)(6) of this section. 
Licensees are also allowed to use one-way (unpaired) channels in the 
17.7-17.74 GHz sub-band to pair with other channels in the FS portions 
of the 18 GHz band where, for example, the return pair is already in 
use and therefore blocked or in TDD systems. Stations used for MVPD 
operations in the 17.7-17.8 GHz band must coordinate with the Federal 
Government before operating in the zones specified in Sec.  1.924(e) of 
this chapter.
* * * * *
    (7) 10 Megahertz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        1560 Megahertz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17705.0....................................................          N/A
17715.0....................................................          N/A
17725.0....................................................          N/A
17735.0....................................................          N/A
17745.0....................................................      19305.0
17755.0....................................................      19315.0
17765.0....................................................      19325.0
17775.0....................................................      19335.0
17785.0....................................................      19345.0
17795.0....................................................      19355.0
17805.0....................................................      19365.0
17815.0....................................................      19375.0
17825.0....................................................      19385.0
17835.0....................................................      19395.0
17845.0....................................................      19405.0
17855.0....................................................      19415.0
17865.0....................................................      19425.0
17875.0....................................................      19435.0
17885.0....................................................      19445.0
17895.0....................................................      19455.0
17905.0....................................................      19465.0
17915.0....................................................      19475.0
17925.0....................................................      19485.0
17935.0....................................................      19495.0
17945.0....................................................      19505.0
17955.0....................................................      19515.0
17965.0....................................................      19525.0
17975.0....................................................      19535.0
17985.0....................................................      19545.0
17995.0....................................................      19555.0
18005.0....................................................      19565.0
18015.0....................................................      19575.0
18025.0....................................................      19585.0
18035.0....................................................      19595.0
18045.0....................................................      19605.0
18055.0....................................................      19615.0
18065.0....................................................      19625.0
18075.0....................................................      19635.0
18085.0....................................................      19645.0
18095.0....................................................      19655.0
18105.0....................................................      19665.0
18115.0....................................................      19675.0
18125.0....................................................      19685.0
18135.0....................................................      19695.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (8) 20 Megahertz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        1560 Megahertz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17710.0....................................................          N/A
17730.0....................................................          N/A
17750.0....................................................      19310.0
17770.0....................................................      19330.0
17790.0....................................................      19350.0
17810.0....................................................      19370.0
17830.0....................................................      19390.0
17850.0....................................................      19410.0
17870.0....................................................      19430.0
17890.0....................................................      19450.0
17910.0....................................................      19470.0
17930.0....................................................      19490.0
17950.0....................................................      19510.0
17970.0....................................................      19530.0
17990.0....................................................      19550.0
18010.0....................................................      19570.0
18030.0....................................................      19590.0
18050.0....................................................      19610.0
18070.0....................................................      19630.0
18090.0....................................................      19650.0
18110.0....................................................      19670.0
18130.0....................................................      19690.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    (10) 40 Megahertz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        1560 Megahertz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17720.0....................................................          N/A
17760.0....................................................      19320.0
17800.0....................................................      19360.0
17840.0....................................................      19400.0
17880.0....................................................      19440.0
17920.0....................................................      19480.0
17960.0....................................................      19520.0
18000.0....................................................      19560.0
18040.0....................................................      19600.0
18080.0....................................................      19640.0
18120.0....................................................      19680.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    (12) 80 Megahertz maximum authorized bandwidth channels:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                               Receive
                 Transmit  (receive)  (MHz)                   (transmit)
                                                                (MHz)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        1560 Megahertz Separation
------------------------------------------------------------------------
17740.0....................................................          N/A
17820.0....................................................      19380.0
17900.0....................................................      19460.0
17980.0....................................................      19540.0
18060.0....................................................      19620.0
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (13) The following frequencies on channels 35-39 are available for 
point-to-multipoint systems and are available by geographic area 
licensing in the 24 GHz Service to be used as the licensee desires. The 
24 GHz spectrum can be aggregated or disaggregated and does not have to 
be used in the transmit/receive manner shown except to comply with 
international agreements along the U.S. borders. Channels 35 through 39 
are licensed in the 24 GHz Service by Economic Areas for any digital 
fixed service. Channels may be used at either nodal or subscriber 
station locations for transmit or receive but must be coordinated with 
adjacent channel and adjacent area users in accordance with the 
provisions of Sec.  101.509. Stations also must comply with 
international coordination agreements.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         Nodal station     User station
              Channel No.                frequency band   frequency band
                                          (MHz) limits     (MHz) limits
------------------------------------------------------------------------
35....................................    24,250-24,290    25,050-25,090
36....................................    24,290-24,330    25,090-25,130
37....................................    24,330-24,370    25,130-25,170
38....................................    24,370-24,410    25,170-25,210
39....................................    24,410-24,450    25,210-25,250
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2023-19383 Filed 9-28-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6712-01-P