P u b l i c   S e r v i c e   M I S C O N C E P T I O N S 
   
   We have received a few inquires  sparked by the last few editions of the ARRL 
   FCC RULE BOOK  section  on "Thou Shalt Not...".   As  EMASS  PIC I  encourage 
   HAM  groups  participating  in  Public  Service  Communications  to  use  the 
   opportunity to promote our hobby, enhance Goodwill  and publicize (advertise) 
   Ham Radio.  Chapter  7-1 of the  rule book indicates that receiving Goodwill, 
   Publicity  and  Advertising can  be  considered  indirect payment for Amateur 
   operation  (FCC rules 97.112).  Some clarification may be necessary.
   
   As  I understand it the prohibition is based on EXCHANGING communications for 
   payment.  HAMS  can  NOT  accept material compensation for Amateur Radio work 
   and  that  includes  money, goods, food, goodwill, publicity, advertising and 
   so  forth.  You  can  NOT  agree  to  provide Amateur Communications with the 
   expectation  of  receiving  compensation.  You can NOT ask for publicity etc. 
   in  exchange for your HAM activities. You can NOT say, "Yes we'll provide Ham 
   communications   IF   you   arrange   for   a   TV   interview   of  our  HAM 
   representative".   You  can  NOT  barter  or  trade  for  your  Amateur Radio 
   services.  This does get complicated sometimes.
   
   What  I  advocate  is  taking advantage of the opportunities available at the 
   event  to  promote our hobby (after you have already agreed to participate in 
   HAM  communications).  This includes asking for a mention or paragraph in the 
   event  program,  press  kit  and  application  forms.  Credit from the Public 
   Address  announcer.  Marking  prominent  HAM  stations with banners or signs. 
   Wearing  identification  apparel  (badges, name plates, vests, hats, armbands 
   etc.)  that  display  the  words  HAM  RADIO  or Amateur Radio. Amateur Radio 
   information  table  for  handouts  and  sign-up  for the ARRL prospective HAM 
   mailing.  And  more.   Most  event  sponsors  are eager to let US promote our 
   hobby  and  are very cooperative. If a TV camera crew wants an interview with 
   Hams  of  course  it  is OK. Usually other volunteer groups involved with the 
   event  get  mentions  in  the program and on the PA - and HAMS can too. Those 
   other  groups  have  banners and so can Hams. You can NOT trade your services 
   for those things.  
   
   
   If  you  have  questions  concerning legality of certain circumstances please 
   seek competent advice from knowledgeable sources.    Do NOT call the FCC with 
   your question.  Refer to The FCC Rule Book 8th edition by ARRL chapter 7, for 
   advice on dealing with your inquiry.
  
   
   Al Carp, K1HLZ
   ARRL EMA PIC