Dear Fellow NC PIOs:

Governor Mike Easley signed HB1340, the “Amateur Radio Antenna” bill into law at 2:16 PM this afternoon in Raleigh.  There was no ceremonial signing or photo opportunities because the governor is working on the budget, and asked that all ceremonial signings be suspended for the present.  We will see if we might be able to replicate a ceremonial signing in the near future.

Meanwhile, ARRL’s weekly newsletter and Audio News picked up the story minutes before its deadline, so the story will hit the ham community nationwide later tonight.  Over the weekend, I will compose a summary for you all, and I’ll send it on to the AP since it will be a slow news weekend and they may want to pick it up.  Highlights to keep in mind about he bill:

-          takes effect Oct. 1

-          Does NOT overturn CC&Rs in neighborhoods with Covenants, Codes & Restrictions.  Home Owner Association (HOA) antenna restrictions remain in effect

-          Does permit antennas up to 90 feet in those areas regulated solely by municipal (County & City) zoning ordinances.

-          Applicants for antenna permits still need to adhere to aesthetic, health and safety requirements from governing municipalities, but those requirements cannot be unreasonable

-          Burden of proof shifts from the amateur radio operator justifying why he or she should be permitted to have an antenna, to municipal government specifying what can be done to make antenna installation work.

NC becomes the 25^th state to enact a state antenna law based on the FCC’s 1985 PRB-1 ruling.  There is no federal antenna legislation that’s been introduced in the current session of Congress.

Congratulations to all, and many thanks for your efforts in getting this passed in its first session of introduction in the General Assembly.

73 & a Happy 4^th to all,
 Bill

Bill Morine, N2COP
101 Windlass Drive   Wilmington, NC  28409-2030
ARRL North Carolina Public Information Coordinator (PIC)

Member - ARRL National Public Relations Committee