The FCC—Regulation of the marine radio service

The regulation of the national marine radio service is performed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). This paper discusses the evolution of the Commission, the impact of national and international factors on regulatory matters, and the administration processes which describe the procedures for promulgating rules and regulations. The competitive pressures for the available radio spectrum, effects of existing precedents, and the impact of new technology on the rule making process is described with particular emphasis on automated VHF radiotelephone systems being developed for maritime use. The introduction of this service is considered in terms of the problems posed vis-a-vis compatibility requirements, signaling techniques, frequency utilization, impact on existing stations, and system considerations.