Comment in response to proposed rule making changes as they apply
to AMATEUR RADIO.

1) As an active VE - I feel that we should not be privy to, nor
authorized to ask for medical information related to the doctor'
s  waiver.

2) I m happy with the prospect of increasing the difficulty of
the test, adding questions about newer technologies, possibly
more reduction of the code requirement.

3) I think retaining only the 5wpm CW requirement should satisfy
most applicants,  our treaty obligations, and old operators as
well.  However, 12wpm as the first or only test will limit rather
than improve the willingness of new operators to advance.
questions.

4) I think the current multiple choice method of CW testing
should stay. Additionally I feel the VE s should retain the
current control over testing and  accommodated   tests.  If we
change this I feel it will not be long the ADA (American with
Disabilities Act) may be brought into play against us.

5) I like the current 6 classes, but am not opposed to changing
to a 4 class structure.   However,  whatever happens, I would
like to retain NAMES for the classes rather than a Class A - B
etc.  I feel the public opinion of operators could be enhanced
just by that alone.  My neighbors and friends know that I am
an EXTRA class... always asking technical questions about their
own electronic equipment and regard my answers/opinion as
valuable.

6) I for one, would be willing to spend a little extra money on
my license if that is what it takes to improve on enforcement.  
I feel the bar  for action against poor operation should be
LOWERED,  but the penalty should be a short suspension for minor
or first violations.  Violations during suspension should
be treated an major infractions.

I think pink slip  slaps for minor violations should be allowed
to be issued by Official Observers with a lower document 
requirement (only if the 00 is NOT part of the infraction, 
meaning in QSO on frequency or adjacent to the one
of the infraction).  However, any Official Observer caught
issuing undeserved slips, should suffer a short suspension, and
be removed from office immediately.

The FCC should consider having the 00 status, listed on the
database -- so if someone is reprimanded short of a slip will be
able to know a favor has been given and they might be on the edge
for good practice. Thank you for your time.

Wayne P. Staats