FCC issued notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) Wed. that seeks c...

FCC issued notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) Wed. that seeks comment on potential rule changes that could streamline wireless services applications that affect “quiet zones.” Those zones are defined as areas where radiation must be restricted to minimize potential impact on radioastronomy operations or other facilities that are “highly sensitive” to interference. NPRM said changes under study would balance protection of quiet zones from interference. Facilities covered by notice include National Radio Astronomy Observatory site in Green Bank, W.Va.; Naval Radio Research Observatory in Sugar Grove, W.Va.; Commerce Dept. research labs in Boulder, Colo., and FCC field offices used for monitoring activities in 13 states. Initial staff report on 2000 biennial review indicated that current FCC quiet zone rules added “excessive” time to process of obtaining approval for some wireless facilities. Comments are due Jan. 22, replies Feb. 6.