GMRS and FRS: FCC petitioned for VHF low-band channels

Long-time GMRS licensee asks FCC to give 30-50 MHz frequencies for personal use

Summary of this article: A long-time GMRS licensee has submitted to the FCC a proposal to reallocate underused VHF low-band radio frequencies for GMRS and FRS. The petition argues that these channels offer superior propagation characteristics compared to current UHF frequencies used by FRS and GMRS.

A petition submitted to the Federal Communications Commission proposes sweeping changes to reallocate underused VHF low-band radio frequencies for the General Mobile Radio Service and Family Radio Service.

A petition presented to the FCC requests new frequencies for GMRS and FRS to allow wide-range communications capabilities. | Graphic by National Communications Magazine

National Capitol Communications LLC, also known as Mid-Atlantic REACT in the Washington, D.C., area, has formally requested that the FCC reallocate a series of outdated or abandoned frequencies in the 30-50 MHz band to enhance GMRS and FRS capabilities. Follow along as we detail the frequencies proposed in the petition and some background why these channels might prove workable for expanded GMRS and FRS networks.