1996 may mark the end of the FCC license and fees for some marine VHF radios.

The 1996 Telecommunications Act authorizes the FCC to delicense certain marine radios. In mid April the FCC will issue a proposal with details of the rule change. The proposal is expected to end licensing for most recreational vessels. Boats that travel internationally or have digital selective calling equipment and other specific electronic equipment will still need to be licensed as usual.

As of this time the old rules are still in force and those who intend to use a marine radio are required to submit an application. Applications and checks sent to the following address will be held pending finalization of the new rule:

FCC
2170 Faifield
Gettysburg, Penn 17325-7245

The change is great news for sailors who watched license fees increase from $ 35 for three years to $ 115 for ten years.

Dawn Riley spent the weekend of March 22-24 in Muskegon to benefit the Muskegon Yacht Club Juniors Program. The 1995 America's Cup Captain and two time Whitbread sailor was welcomed to West Michigan by Torresen Marine.

Dawn spoke to the Muskegon Yacht Club on Friday, and presented a public show at the Mona Shores Middle School on Saturday. She also spent much of her time with local media promoting sailing in our area.