This should concern ALL CB operators

I wouldn't think it is an issue of "free speech" per se. It is a matter of using an electronic device to enhance or enable the projection of communications to either a greater distance OR doing so in a manner that caused harm to others. That has be, to some degree, regulated to prevent interference and harm to essential communications. Wouldn't you certainly agree that using your CB radio IS an important communication in the conduct of your business either as a trucker, an individual citizen, OR even for pleasure?

The FCC that so many people HATE was not something that popped up on its own, but was created by Congress, an elected body, via the Communications Act of 1934. To this agency, Congress gave the authority to regulate radio and other electronic media on a nationwide basis. This was because of the NATURE of radio and its potential for good, and for harm to commerce aviation or emergency traffic.

I certainly don't agree with everything FCC does, but IF you did away with FCC, what would you replace it with? The very same things being regulated now would STILL have to be regulated. Are you talking about HOW FCC does their job being the issue? Or to what purpose would any new agency be devoted?

Radio and other electronic media such as TV, Cable would still have problems. CB radio would still have its problems, to wit, the one I cited above. There will always be "rambos" that think they can wrap themselves up in the Constitution and avoid punishment for causing problems for other users.

The whole point of this thread was NOT to cause trouble, but to point out the misconceptions about FCC and the rules governing CB radio. Some of us think you must in each and every case have a search warrant to inspect a CB (and any other) radio station. But the issue of "free speech" does NOT apply here (if that is what you are implying) because it is NOT speech that is being regulated in the instant case, but the USE of a CB radio in a manner that violates clear, long-established rules. The rules state that if you USE a CB radio, you MUST permit inspection It is the only way they can insure compliance. The mix-up often comes because people simply NEVER read Part 95 of the CB regulations to KNOW what they are talking about. They rely on myth, legend, and word of mouth for their info. And, thusly, people sometimes end up getting a big fine because they just don't know.

The use of a CB radio is voluntary, and has rules. If you USE a CB radio, according to Federal law, you must comply with the rules from the moment you pick up the mike. You don't HAVE to use a CB: it is optional and is NOT an "inalienable right". There's the misconception.

The facts presented here are just that: facts. Use 'em or forget about 'em. It's fine. No need for anger.


GF