Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
Before the
Federal Communications Commission
Washington, D.C. 20554
In the Matter of
Amendment of the Commission’s Rules 
Regarding Maritime Radio Equipment and Related 
Matters
Petition to Request that FCC Amend the Rules to 
Permit the Use of Maritime VHF Portable Radios 
Ashore Near Areas of Maritime and Boating 
Activity
Petition for Rulemaking to Amend Part 80 of the 
Commission’s Rules to Provide for a Digital Small 
Message Service on Certain Maritime VHF 
Channels
Petition to Amend Part 95 of the Commission’s 
Rules to Provide for Certain Personal Radio 
Service Devices
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WT Docket No. 14-36
RM-11540
RM-11563
RM-11667
NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING
Adopted:  February 27, 2014 Released: February 28, 2014
Comment Date: (60 days after date of publication in the Federal Register)
Reply Comment Date: (90 days after date of publication in the Federal Register)
By the Commission:
I. INTRODUCTION
1. In this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, we propose to update rules that apply to maritime 
radio services, in order to better protect lives and property at sea, as well as support improved day-to-day 
operations.  We propose to update the rules and requirements for technologies used to locate and rescue 
distressed ships and individuals in distress at sea or on land to provide better and more accurate data to 
rescue personnel.  In addition, we propose to remove a regulatory hurdle to the assignment or transfer of 
control of ship licenses, consistent with our approach in other services.
2. Below we address petitions for rulemaking filed by the National Global Maritime 
Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Implementation Task Force (GMDSS Task Force)
1
and the Radio 
                                                     
1
Petition to Request that FCC Amend the Rules to Permit the Use of Maritime VHF Portable Radios Ashore Near 
Areas of Maritime and Boating Activity, RM-11540 (filed June 10, 2009) (GMDSS Task Force Petition).  No party 
responded to the Public Notice seeking comment on the GMDSS Task Force Petition, Consumer & Governmental 
Affairs Bureau Reference Information Center Petition for Rulemakings Filed, Public Notice, Report No. 2891 (CGB 
rel. June 26, 2009) (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-291651A1.pdf).  The GMDSS Task 
Force was chartered by the U.S. Coast Guard to supplement government functions in expediting the implementation 
of the GMDSS. The membership includes over 1,500 representatives of government agencies, commercial vessel 
(continued….)
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
2
Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM)
2
regarding the Maritime Radio Services and 
certain other proposed rule changes.
3
  We also address a National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) 
recommendation regarding maritime safety equipment
4
and, on our own motion, additional maritime-
related rule changes.  Specifically, we seek comment on whether to amend Parts 80 and 95 of our rules to: 
(1) require emergency position indicating radio beacons (EPIRBs) to be capable of broadcasting 
position data when activated, which will improve the ability of rescue personnel to locate 
distressed ships;
(2) update the equipment standards for Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs) to ensure that PLBs 
meet updated functional and technical parameters;
(3) authorize equipment certification and use of Satellite Emergency Notification Devices 
(SENDs) that comply with RTCM standards, providing for the use of additional technologies for 
safety of life and rescue scenarios;
(4) permit equipment certification and use of Maritime Survivor Locating Devices (MSLDs) that 
comply with RTCM standards, in order to enhance maritime safety; 
(5) provide for equipment certification and use of Automatic Identification System Search and 
Rescue Transmitters (AIS-SARTs) that comply with international standards, which will 
contribute to maritime safety; 
(6) clarify the rules regarding radar equipment;
(7) permit the use of portable marine VHF radio transmitters by persons on shore; 
(8) permit VHF digital small message services (VDSMS) on certain maritime VHF channels; 
(9) allow assignment or transfer of control of ship station licenses, removing a regulatory hurdle 
to secondary market transactions; and 
(10) correct certain typographical errors.
(Continued from previous page)                                                            
owners and operators, recreational vessel interests, training institutions, service agents, manufacturers, trade 
associations, and maritime labor organizations.  
2
Petition for Rulemaking to Amend Part 80 of the Commission’s Rules to Provide for a Digital Small Message 
Service on Certain Maritime VHF Channels, RM-11563 (filed August 19, 2009) (RTCM SMS Petition); Petition for 
Rulemaking to Amend Part 95 of the Commission’s Rules to Provide for Certain Personal Radio Service Devices, 
RM-11667 (filed June 20, 2012) (RTCM Part 95 Petition); Petition to Delay or Suspend Application of Part 47,       
§ 80.273(b) on Marine Radar on Voluntarily Equipped Vessels, and to Clarify the Applicability of § 80.273(a), WT 
Docket No. 00-48 (filed Feb. 27, 2012) (RTCM Radar Petition).  The RTCM SMS Petition and the RTCM Part 95 
Petition were placed on public notice.  See infra notes 42 and 96 listing the commenters.  RTCM is a nonprofit 
organization that studies maritime issues. It is comprised of marine electronics manufacturers, government 
organizations such as the U.S. Coast Guard, and other parties interested in maritime operations.
3
In addition to the Maritime Radio Services, the RTCM Part 95 Petition proposes changes to the rules governing 
Personal Locator Beacons and Satellite Emergency Notification Devices.  
4
Letter, dated Mar. 11, 2010, from Deborah A. P. Hersman, Chairman, NTSB, to Julius Genachowski, Chairman, 
FCC (NTSB Safety Recommendation M-10-1).  The NTSB recommendation is available at 
http://www.ntsb.gov/doclib/recletters/2010/M-10-001.pdf.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
3
II. BACKGROUND
3. The Maritime Radio Services provide for the unique distress, operational, and personal 
communications needs of vessels at sea and on inland waterways.
5
  Maritime frequencies are allocated 
internationally by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to facilitate interoperable radio 
communications among vessels of all nations and stations on land worldwide.  While the Maritime Radio 
Services are still used extensively for safety, they provide a wide range of communication services to 
vessels operating in international waters, coastal areas, and inland lakes and waterways.  Such uses 
include ordering ships’ stores, inquiring about berthing facilities, making personal and business telephone 
calls, and changing schedules – in short, providing a means of communications for the day-to-day 
activities of a multi-billion dollar industry, as well as providing the critical safety link for the protection of 
lives and property at sea.
6
4. The Maritime Radio Services include ship stations and coast stations.  Ship station 
licenses authorize the use of a variety of equipment, including radiotelephones, emergency beacons, and 
radar installations.
5. There are two types of coast stations:  public coast stations and private coast stations.  
Public coast stations are commercial mobile radio service (CMRS) facilities that, for a fee, allow ships to 
send and receive messages and to interconnect with the public switched network.
7
  Each public coast station 
has exclusive use of one or more public correspondence channels within its service area or region of 
operation.  By contrast, private coast stations operate on shared frequencies to serve vessels’ business and 
operational needs, and licensees may not charge fees for the provision of communications services.  
6. The pending petitions for rulemaking address various rules concerning ship and coast 
stations.  RTCM proposes that the rules be amended to incorporate by reference the RTCM technical 
standards for certain equipment, including revised versions of RTCM standards currently incorporated into 
our rules.
8
  It also proposes that the incorporation by reference of an International Electrotechnical 
Commission (IEC) radar equipment standard be removed from the rules.
9
  The GMDSS Task Force 
proposes that the rules be amended to allow persons onshore to use portable marine VHF radios 
associated with a vessel under certain circumstances.
10
III. DISCUSSION
A. Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs)
7. EPIRBs are carried on board ships to alert others of a distress situation, and to assist 
search and rescue units in locating those in distress.
11
  Specifically, the EPIRB transmits a digital signal
on 406.0-406.1 MHz (406 MHz) that is detected by the search and rescue satellite-aided tracking 
                                                     
5
Amendment of the Commission’s Rules Concerning Maritime Communications, Fourth Further Notice of 
Proposed Rule Making, PR Docket No. 92-257, 17 FCC Rcd 227, 229 ¶ 2 (2001).
6
Amendment of the Commission’s Rules Concerning Maritime Communications, Notice of Proposed Rule Making 
and Notice of Inquiry, PR Docket No. 92-257, 7 FCC Rcd 7863, 7863 ¶ 2 (1992).
7
See Implementation of Sections 3(n) and 332 of the Communications Act – Regulatory Treatment of Mobile 
Services, Second Report and Order, GN Docket No. 93-252, 9 FCC Rcd 1411, 1448 ¶ 83 (1994); see also 47 C.F.R. 
§ 20.9(a)(5).
8
See RTCM Part 95 Petition at 2-3; RTCM SMS Petition at 5.  
9
See RTCM Radar Petition at 2.  
10
See GMDSS Task Force Petition at 2.
11
Jean Pierre de Lutz, Letter, 24 FCC Rcd 8567, 8567 (WTB MD 2009); see also 47 C.F.R. § 80.5.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
4
(SARSAT)
12
system operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  The 
digital signal provides distress alerting, homing assistance, country and identification code of the station 
in distress, and other pertinent information.  Traditional EPIRBs rely on satellite Doppler shift to identify 
the distress location.  Some EPIRBs, however, transmit their Global Positioning System (GPS) 
coordinates, which enables search and rescue authorities to determine an accurate location significantly 
faster than satellite Doppler shift.  NTSB estimates that a GPS receiver adds about one hundred dollars to 
the cost of an EPIRB.
13
8. The United States Coast Guard (Coast Guard) strongly encourages vessel 
owner/operators to replace traditional EPIRBs with GPS-enhanced EPIRBs.
14
  In addition, NTSB has 
recommended that the Commission amend its rules to mandate that EPIRBs on commercial vessels that 
are required to carry EPIRBs be capable of broadcasting position data when activated.
15
  Subsequently, 
RTCM updated its EPIRB standard to require an internal navigation device designed to provide position 
data upon activation.
16
  Additionally, the new standard incorporates by reference the technical 
characteristics from COSPAS-SARSAT T.001,
17
ITU-R M.690-1,
18
and IEC Standard 61097-2
19
as well 
as certain technical characteristics not covered by any of the three documents.  The revised standard also 
requires new EPIRBs to meet ergonomic requirements after January 1, 2014.  
9. Accordingly, we seek comment on revising Part 80 to incorporate by reference the 
revised RTCM EPIRB standard, and requiring that all new EPIRBs meet the requirements of the standard.  
                                                     
12
SARSAT is part of the international COSPAS-SARSAT system, a cooperative development of the United States, 
Russia, Canada, and France (the original COSPAS-SARSAT Partners, see Amendment of the Maritime Services 
Rules to allow ships to use 406.025 MHz emergency position indicating radio-beacons for distress alerting and 
search and rescue functions, Report and Order, PR Docket No. 86-424, 3 FCC Rcd 5406, 5406 ¶ 3 (1988)). 
COSPAS is a Russian acronym that translates as "Space System for the Search of Vessels in Distress."
13
See NTSB Safety Recommendation M-10-1 at 3.  EPIRBs cost from two hundred dollars to about fifteen hundred 
dollars.  FCC Enforcement Advisory:  Marine Radio – Enforcement Bureau Reminds Boaters of Marine Radio 
Rules, Public Notice, 26 FCC Rcd 7756, 7756 (EB 2011).
14
See United States Coast Guard Marine Safety Advisory:  Upgrade to GPS enhanced EPIRBs (May 23, 2011).
15
See NTSB Safety Recommendation M-10-1 at 3.  The impetus for NTSB’s recommendation was its investigation 
of the 2009 sinking of the fishing vessel Lady Mary.  An EPIRB signal was detected by a geostationary SARSAT 
satellite, but no immediate action was taken because NOAA initially could not establish its position.  More than an 
hour later, a low earth orbiting satellite crossed Lady Mary’s location, enabling NOAA to notify the Coast Guard of 
the vessel’s position. By the time the Coast Guard arrived on scene, five crewmembers in the water had died from 
exposure.  NTSB concluded that the initial inability to provide position data delayed the launch of search and rescue 
efforts and unnecessarily increased the risk to Lady Mary’s crew.  By contrast, for example, four fishermen on a 
vessel that lost power and capsized in rough weather off the west coast of Florida in August 2013 were quickly 
located and rescued by the Coast Guard because the vessel’s EPIRB provided GPS coordinates.  See Steve Waters, 
Boaters in trouble can rely on others or EPIRBs, Sun Sentinel, September 14, 2013 (http://articles.sun-
sentinel.com/2013-09-14/sports/fl-outdoors-boating-safety-0915-20130914_1_donzi-four-men-hillsboro-inlet).
16
See RTCM Standard 11000.3 for 406 MHz Satellite Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), 
dated June 12, 2012.  The prior version of the RTCM standard is currently incorporated in the Commission’s Rules.  
See 47 C.F.R. §§ 80.7(f)(2), 80.1061(a) (incorporating by reference RTCM Standard 11000.2 for 406 MHz Satellite 
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), dated June 20, 2002).
17
COSPAS-SARSAT C/S T.001, Specification for COSPAS-SARSAT 406 MHz Distress Beacons, Issue 3 –
Revision 12, October 2011. 
18
ITU-R Recommendation M.690-1 (1990-1995), Technical Characteristics of Emergency Position Indicating 
Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) Operating on the Carrier Frequencies of 121.5 MHz and 243 MHz.
19
IEC 61097-2 Edition 3.0 (2008-01), “Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) – Part 2 COSPAS-
SARSAT EPIRB – Satellite Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon Operating on 406 MHz – Operation and 
Performance Requirements, Methods of Testing and Required Test Results.” 
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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We also seek comment on the appropriate timetables for phasing out certification, manufacture, sale, and
use of EPIRBs that do not comply with the new standard.
20
  We ask commenters to provide information 
on the costs to vessel operators of complying with such a requirement, and whether the safety benefits to 
be derived therefrom outweigh the compliance costs.  Because this rule change would in effect implement 
NTSB’s recommendation that the Commission amend its rules to mandate that EPIRBs on commercial 
vessels that are required to carry EPIRBs be capable of broadcasting position data when activated,
21
we 
propose this rule change in lieu of NTSB’s narrower recommendation.
22
  
10. In addition, we propose to remove references to COSPAS-SARSAT T.001 and T.007 
from our rules, given that the RTCM EPIRB standard incorporates them by reference, and that a test 
facility recognized by the COSPAS-SARSAT Partners must certify that the equipment meets the 
requirements of COSPAS-SARSAT T.001 and T.007 before manufacturers submit their certification 
applications to the Commission.
23
  We seek comment, however, on whether we should instead revise our 
rules to incorporate a more recent version of COSPAS-SARSAT T.001 and T.007. 
11. Finally, we propose to amend our rules to make plain that the use of EPIRBs that 
operate on frequencies 121.5/243 MHz is prohibited.  In 2002, the Commission phased out the 
certification, manufacture, importation, sale, and use of those EPIRBs in light of COSPAS-SARSAT’s 
plans to cease monitoring those frequencies.
24
  The rules adopted in that proceeding expressly prohibited 
operation of 121.5/243 MHz EPIRBs after December 31, 2006.
25
  In 2010, the Commission prohibited the 
continued certification, manufacture, importation, sale, and use of INMARSAT-E EPIRBs, which 
operated on a different frequency and were not monitored by COSPAS-SARSAT, in light of 
INMARSAT’s discontinuance of that service.
26
  The Commission consolidated the prohibition of 
121.5/243 MHz EPIRBs and INMARSAT-E EPIRBs into a single rule, but while the title of the rule 
prohibits the certification, manufacture, importation, sale, and use of these EPIRBs, the rule language 
itself does not expressly mention use.
27
  We propose to correct this oversight.
B. Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs)
12. Like EPIRBs, PLBs send distress signals on 406 MHz that are detected by the COSPAS-
SARSAT satellite system and relayed to search and rescue authorities, but PLBs can be used on land and 
are intended to meet the distress alerting needs of the general public.
28
  PLB use is licensed by rule under 
                                                     
20
For example, when the Commission phased out 121.5 MHz EPIRBs, it ceased certifying them immediately, 
allowed sale and manufacture of the units for approximately a year, and permitted operation for three years after 
that.  See Amendment of Parts 13 and 80 of the Commission’s Rules Concerning Maritime Communications, Report 
and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rule Making, WT Docket No. 00-48, 17 FCC Rcd 6741, 6761-62 ¶¶ 46-
47 (2002) (2002 Maritime R&O).  
21
See NTSB Safety Recommendation M-10-1 at 3.  
22
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Section 80.7(f)(2).
23
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.1061(c).
24
See 2002 Maritime R&O, 17 FCC Rcd at 6761-62 ¶ 47.
25
See 47 C.F.R. §§ 80.1053, 80.1055, 80.1059 (2003).
26
See Amendment of Parts 13 and 80 of the Commission’s Rules Concerning Maritime Communications, Fourth 
Report and Order and Second Memorandum Opinion and Order, WT Docket No. 00-48, 25 FCC Rcd 7781, 7783-
84 ¶ 4 (2010) (2010 Maritime R&O).
27
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.1053.
28
See 47 C.F.R. § 95.1400.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
6
Part 95 of the Commission’s Rules, which governs the Personal Radio Services (PRS). Some vessel 
operators not required to carry EPIRBs choose to carry PLBs instead.
29
13. The Part 95 rules incorporate by reference the RTCM technical standard that contains 
minimum requirements for the functional and technical performance of PLBs.
30
  RTCM has revised the 
standard subsequent to the version that is currently incorporated in Part 95.
31
  In addition to updating the 
various technical requirements, the revision adds test procedures and operational scenarios for PLBs with 
integral GPS receivers or internal navigation devices.  RTCM proposes that we update our rules to 
incorporate the revised RTCM PLB standard.
32
  We tentatively conclude that the public interest would be 
served by incorporating the most recent standard, because it will ensure PLBs meet current functional and 
technical parameters.
33
  We seek comment on this proposal.  We ask commenters to provide information 
on the costs of complying with such a requirement, and whether the safety benefits to be derived 
therefrom outweigh the compliance costs.  We also seek comment on the appropriate timetable for 
phasing out certification, manufacture, sale, and (if appropriate) use of PLBs that do not comply with the 
new standard.
14. Section 95.1401 of the Commission’s Rules limits use of 406 MHz frequencies by PLBs 
“to transmission of distress and safety communications.”
34
  In its comments to the RTCM rulemaking 
petition, the Secretariat of the International COSPAS-SARSAT Programme
35
argues that the rule should 
be revised to limit use of the frequencies to “distress and safety of life communications,” because “safety 
communications” do not rise to the level of distress communications related to an imminent threat to 
life.
36
  It also recommends that the rule be revised to clarify the mechanism by which unique beacon 
identifications are created, and emphasize that PLB owners are required to register their beacons.
37
  We 
seek comment on these recommendations.
C. Satellite Emergency Notification Devices (SENDs)
15. SENDs are small transmitters that provide a means for individuals in remote areas to 
alert others of an emergency situation and to aid search and rescue personnel to locate those in distress.  
They differ from PLBs in that they operate on satellite networks other than the 406 MHz COSPAS-
SARSAT system.  SENDs are typically subscription services that send data to a satellite which is then 
                                                     
29
See ACR Electronic, Inc., Order on Reconsideration, 18 FCC Rcd 11000, 11002 n.20 (2003).
30
See 47 C.F.R. § 95.1402.
31
See RTCM Standard 11010.2 for 406 MHz Satellite Personal Locator Beacons, with Amendment 1 and 
Amendment 2, dated June 8, 2012.  
32
See RTCM Part 95 Petition at 2.  We note that the Commission previously proposed to update the reference to the 
RTCM PLB standard in another proceeding.  See Review of the Commission’s Part 95 Personal Radio Services 
Rules, Notice of Proposed Rule Making and Memorandum Opinion and Order on Reconsideration, WT Docket No. 
10-119, 25 FCC Rcd 7651, 7677 ¶ 69 (2010) (Part 95 NPRM).  The standard has been revised again since that time.  
Other changes to the PLB rules set forth in the RTCM Part 95 Petition also were suggested in RTCM’s comments to 
the Part 95 NPRM and are being considered in that proceeding.
33
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Section 95.1402(a).
34
See 47 C.F.R. § 95.1402.
35
The International COSPAS-SARSAT Programme is comprised of the forty-three countries and agencies that 
manage and operate the COSPAS-SARSAT system.
36
Comments of International COSPAS-SARSAT Programme, RM-11667, at 1-2 (COSPAS-SARSAT Comments).  
“Safety communications” are those that “if delayed in transmission or reception, may adversely affect the safety of 
life or property.”  47 C.F.R. § 80.5.
37
COSPAS-SARSAT Comments at 3-4.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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used to create a Web-based report that enables the tracking of persons.
38
  RTCM and the mobile satellite 
industry, at the request of Coast Guard and the U.S. Air Force, have developed minimum requirements for 
the functional and technical performance of SENDs to ensure that these devices will work in emergency 
situations.
39
  
16. RTCM proposes that the Part 95 rules be amended to incorporate its SEND standard.
40
  
It does not, however, propose to prohibit the manufacture or use of satellite beacons that do not meet that 
standard; rather, it proposes only to prohibit beacons that do not meet the standard from being marketed 
as SENDs.
41
  Iridium Satellite LLC (Iridium), a mobile satellite service (MSS) provider, supports the 
proposal.
42
  Iridium argues that incorporation of the standard into our rules would ensure that devices used 
for tracking in emergency situations will rapidly and reliably provide rescue teams with sufficient 
information to mount a successful search and rescue.
43
17. Unlike PLBs, SENDs do not require authorization under Part 95 because they already 
can operate pursuant to the Part 25 MSS rules.
44
  The proposed rule change would provide a standard for 
manufacturers that choose to manufacture devices marketed as SENDs and MSS providers that choose to 
offer SEND service, but those manufacturers and MSS providers may follow the RTCM SEND standard 
regardless of whether we codify it.  We do not believe that it is necessary to adopt rules incorporating 
what is in effect a voluntary standard.  Moreover, incorporation of the standard into Part 95 would require 
amendment of the rules every time the standard is revised, which could unnecessarily delay 
implementation of improvements in SEND technology.  We tentatively conclude that the proposed rule 
change is unnecessary and would not further the public interest.
18. Consequently, although we seek comment on RTCM’s proposal, our tentative 
conclusion is that there is no need to amend the Part 95 rules to incorporate the RTCM SEND standard.  
Commenters in support of the proposal should address how the public interest would be served by 
incorporating RTCM’s SEND standard into the Commission’s rules rather than continuing to authorize 
SENDs pursuant to Part 25.  Commenters should also address the potential costs of RTCM’s proposal.
D. Maritime Survivor Locating Devices (MSLDs)
19. MSLDs are intended for use by persons at risk of falling into the water such as mariners 
and workers on marine installations or docks, or by divers returning to the surface out of sight of their 
dive boats.
45
  They can be worn on or as part of a garment or life jacket, and are intended to facilitate the 
rescue of personnel in the vicinity of their vessel or structure so that immediate assistance can be rendered 
without a time-consuming and expensive search and rescue operation.  In light of this narrower focus, 
                                                     
38
RTCM Part 95 Petition at 2.  
39
Id.; see RTCM Standard 12800.0 for Satellite Emergency Notification Devices (SENDs), dated August 1, 2011.
40
RTCM Part 95 Petition at 3.
41
Id. at Annex 1 at 3.
42
Comments of Iridium, RM-11667, at 2 (Iridium Comments).  Iridium and the Secretariat of the International 
Cospas-Sarsat Programme, see supra para. 13, filed the only comments in response to the Public Notice seeking 
comment on the RTCM Part 95 Petition, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau Reference Information Center 
Petition for Rulemakings Filed, Public Notice, Report No. 2956 (CGB rel. July. 23, 2012) 
(http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-315339A1.pdf ).
43
Iridium Comments at 3.
44
See 47 C.F.R. Part 25.
45
MSLDs have sometimes been referred to as “man-overboard” devices, see, e.g., Wireless Telecommunications 
Bureau Clarifies that Certain 121.5 MHz Devices Are Permitted Despite Termination of Satellite Processing of 
121.5 MHz Distress Signals, Public Notice, 24 FCC Rcd 8483, 8483 (WTB MD 2009), but that term does not fully 
encompass the scope of possible MSLD uses.  RTCM Part 95 Petition at 3.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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MSLDs do not operate on a frequency monitored by COSPAS-SARSAT, and do not transmit with as 
much power or for as long as EPIRBs or PLBs.
46
  Instead, MSLDs transmit on frequencies that are 
received on a device monitored by personnel at the MSLD-wearer’s vessel or facility.  Because MSLDs 
contribute to maritime safety but do not meet the technical requirements for EPIRBs, the Wireless 
Telecommunications Bureau (WTB) has granted waivers of the Part 80 rules to permit the certification 
and use of MSLDs.
47
20. RTCM has developed a technical standard for MSLDs.
48
  We propose to incorporate its 
MSLD standard into our rules,
49
which would allow certification and use of MSLDs meeting the standard.  
RTCM proposes that, beginning one year after the effective date of the final rules adopted in this 
proceeding, devices intended to aid in the location of persons in the water be required to meet the MSLD 
standard if they operate on certain frequencies or the device sends a distress message directly to the Coast 
Guard or any other search and rescue agency.
50
  RTCM proposes that MSLDs be authorized under Part 95 
of our rules.
51
21. We seek comment on the RTCM proposal.
52
  We ask commenters to provide 
information on the costs of complying with such a requirement.  In addition, we seek comment on 
whether manufacturers should be required to coordinate applications for equipment certification with the 
Coast Guard, as is currently required for EPIRBs.
53
  We also seek comment on whether to permit the 
continued manufacture, marketing, and use of any devices operating on the frequencies identified by 
RTCM that were approved by waiver but do not meet the MSLD standard.  
22. Finally, we seek comment on RTCM’s proposal that MSLDs be authorized under Part 
95.  RTCM believes that MSLDs should be authorized under Part 95 because they more closely resemble 
SENDs (which, as noted above, RTCM proposes to authorize under Part 95) and PLBs, but we ask 
commenters to address whether, because MSLDs are specifically designed and intended for use in a 
marine environment, they should be authorized under Part 80 like EPIRBs and other maritime 
communications equipment.
54
E. Automatic Identification System Search and Rescue Transmitters (AIS-SARTs)
23. Like EPIRBs, SARTs are carried on board ships and survival craft to alert others of a 
distress situation, and to assist search and rescue units in locating those in distress.  A traditional SART 
                                                     
46
See, e.g., David Marshall, Letter, 13 FCC Rcd 23688, 23688-89 (WTB PSPWD 1998).
47
See id.; Letter dated August 4, 2000 from D’wana R. Terry, Chief, Public Safety and Private Wireless Division, 
Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, to Cal Havens, ACR Electronics; Briar Tek Incorporated, Order, 17 FCC 
Rcd 2204 (WTB PSPWD 2002); McMurdo Limited, Order, 17 FCC Rcd 7999 (WTB PSPWD 2002); Briar Tek 
Incorporated, Order, 21 FCC Rcd 11979 (WTB MD 2006).
48
RTCM Standard 11901.1 for Maritime Survivor Locating Devices (MSLD), dated June 4, 2012.
49
See RTCM Part 95 Petition at 3.
50
Id. at 6.  Specifically, distress frequency 121.5 MHz, marine VHF calling frequencies channels 16 (156.800 MHz) 
or 70 (156.525 MHz), or frequencies designated or contemplated for use by Automatic Identification Systems (AIS) 
(156.750 MHz, 156.850 MHz, 161.975 MHz, and 162.025 MHz).  
51
Id. at 3.
52
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Section 95.1043(b).
53
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.1061.
54
If MSLDs were to be authorized under Part 80 rather than Part 95, Section 80.13 of the Commission’s Rules, 47 
C.F.R. § 80.13, would be amended to provide that MSLDs could be operated under any coast or ship station 
authorization.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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acts as an active reflector of 9.2-9.5 GHz (9 GHz) radar signals.
55
  Each time a 9 GHz SART detects a 
pulse from the radar of a searching vessel that is within approximately five nautical miles, the SART 
transmits a signal that is displayed on the screen of the radar that activated it.  The Part 80 rules currently 
authorize only SARTs operating in the 9 GHz band.
56
  
24. AIS is a VHF maritime navigation safety communications system standardized by the 
ITU that “provides vessel information, including the vessel's identity, type, position, course, speed, 
navigational status and other safety-related information automatically to appropriately equipped shore 
stations, other ships, and aircraft; receives automatically such information from similarly fitted ships; 
monitors and tracks ships; and exchanges data with shore-based facilities.”
57
  The AIS-SART, as part of 
the AIS maritime navigation safety communications system,
58
is used to locate a survival craft or 
distressed vessel by transmitting a unique identification code and GPS coordinates to all AIS-enabled 
devices within VHF radio range.  The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has amended the 
GMDSS regulations to permit AIS-SARTs as an alternative to 9 GHz SARTs.
59
  In addition, the IEC has 
approved performance and technical specifications for AIS-SARTs.
60  
AIS-SARTs are coming into wider 
usage internationally.
61
  Because AIS-SARTs contribute to maritime safety but do not meet the technical 
requirements for 9 GHz SARTs, WTB has granted waivers of the Part 80 rules to permit the certification 
and use of AIS-SARTs that meet the IMO and IEC requirements.
62
25. We propose to incorporate the IMO and IEC standards into our rules, which would 
allow certification and use of AIS-SARTs meeting those standards.
63
  We also propose to require
manufacturers to coordinate equipment certification applications with the Coast Guard.
64
  We invite 
comment on our proposal to authorize the certification and use of AIS-SARTs, and on the potential costs 
and benefits.
                                                     
55
See Waiver of Certain Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) Rules Applicable to Fishing 
Vessels and Small Passenger Vessels, Order, 14 FCC Rcd 528, 530 n.13 (1988).
56
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.1101(c)(6).  All cargo vessels over three hundred gross tons must carry survival craft 
equipment consisting of two handheld VHF radios and a 9 GHz SART; for cargo vessels over five hundred gross 
tons and passenger vessels, the requirement increases to three handheld VHF radios and two SARTs.  See 47 C.F.R. 
§ 80.1095(b).
57
47 C.F.R. § 80.5; see also Amendment of the Commission’s Rules Regarding Maritime Automatic Identification 
Systems, Report and Order, WT Docket No. 04-344, 21 FCC Rcd 8892, 8894-8901 ¶¶ 4-11 (2006).
58
See Amendment of the Commission’s Rules Regarding Maritime Automatic Identification Systems, Memorandum 
Opinion and Order and Notice of Proposed Rule Making, WT Docket No. 04-344, 19 FCC Rcd 20071, 20074 ¶ 5 
(2004).    
59
See IMO Resolution MSC.246(83), “Adoption of Performance Standards for Survival Craft AIS Search and 
Rescue Transmitters (AIS-SART) for Use in Search and Rescue Operations.”  The IMO is an agency of the United 
Nations that specifies regulations for the maritime service, such as equipment carriage requirements for certain 
classes of ships.
60
See IEC 61097-14 Ed. 1.0 (2010-02), “Global maritime distress and safety system (GMDSS) – Part 14: AIS 
search and rescue transmitter (AIS-SART) – Operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and 
required test results.”
61
See, e.g., IMO SN.1/Circ.322, Information on the Display of AIS-SART, AIS Man Overboard and EPIRB-AIS 
Devices (24 June 2013).
62
See McMurdo, Ltd., Order, 25 FCC Rcd 9073 (WTB MD 2010); McMurdo, Ltd., Order, 27 FCC Rcd 407 (WTB 
MD 2012).
63
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Sections 80.7(b)(28), (d)(14) and 80.233(a).
64
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Section 80.233(b).  Our rules already require such coordination for other AIS 
equipment.  See 47 C.F.R. §§ 80.231, 80.275. 
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
10
F. Ship Radar Installations
26. Section 80.273 of the Commission’s Rules contains the technical requirements for radar 
equipment installed on ships.
65
In the Fourth Report and Order and Second Memorandum Opinion and 
Order in WT Docket No. 00-48 (Fourth Report and Order), the Commission amended Section 80.273 by, 
among other things, updating the rules for ship radar equipment and incorporating by reference relevant 
international standards for such equipment, including IEC 62388
66
for compulsory vessels
67
and IEC 
62252
68
for voluntary vessels.
69
  The Commission grandfathered existing ship radar equipment, but 
prohibited any new installations not compliant with the new standards.
70
  
27. RTCM proposes that the incorporation by reference of IEC 62252 be removed.  It states 
that the standard has not been adopted by any other country, and manufacturers have not designed or built 
radar sets to this standard.
71
  RTCM states that radar equipment for smaller vessels is now being based on 
IEC 62388, as simplified appropriately for those vessels.
72
  We agree with RTCM that the requirement for 
voluntarily equipped vessels to comply with IEC 62252 should be removed so that voluntary vessels can 
install new radar equipment while appropriate standards are developed and adopted.  We seek comment 
on this proposal, and on the potential costs and benefits.
73
  Commenters that propose an alternative 
standard for radar equipment on voluntary vessels should also discuss where in Part 80 such a standard 
should be incorporated.  Section 80.273 is located in Subpart F (“Equipment Authorization for 
Compulsory Ships”), and we tentatively agree with RTCM that any equipment standard for voluntary 
installations should be incorporated in a different subpart.
74
28. In addition, we propose to clarify the applicability of Section 80.273(a)
75
regarding 
compulsory ship radar equipment.  In the Fourth Report and Order, the Commission moved the standards 
applicable to compulsory vessels from paragraph (b) of Section 80.273 to paragraph (a), but inadvertently 
                                                     
65
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.273.
66
IEC 62388, “Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems—General requirements—
Methods of testing and required test results, Edition 1.0, 2007-12.
67
Compulsory vessels are required by statute or treaty to be equipped with radiocommunication equipment.  47 
C.F.R. § 80.5.
68
IEC 62252, “Maritime navigation and radiocommunication equipment and systems—Radar for craft not in 
compliance with IMO SOLAS Chapter V—Performance requirements, methods of test and required test results,” 
First edition, 2004–07.
69
See 2010 Maritime R&O, 25 FCC Rcd at 7789-90 ¶ 16. 
70
Id. at 7790 ¶ 17.  The rule changes took effect on January 3, 2012.  
71
See RTCM Radar Petition at 2.  In response to the RTCM Radar Petition, WTB granted a blanket waiver of 
Section 80.273(b) to permit voluntary vessels to carry equipment that does not comply with IEC 62252, and allow 
authorization of radar equipment without reference to any particular standard if the equipment is intended for use 
solely on voluntary vessels.  See Wireless Telecommunications Bureau Clarifies and Waives Requirements for Ship 
Stations Radar Equipment, Public Notice, 27 FCC Rcd 6046 (WTB MD 2012) (Ship Radar Public Notice).
72
See RTCM Radar Petition at 2.  RTCM also states that the IEC is considering withdrawal of IEC 62252.  Id.
73
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Section 80.273.  
74
See RTCM Radar Petition at 2.
75
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.273(a).  RTCM states that Section 80.273(a) “is potentially in conflict with” Coast Guard 
carriage requirements in 33 C.F.R. § 164.72(a) for radar equipment on certain domestic towing vessels in that 
Section 80.273(a) imposes a higher standard for these vessels.  See RTCM Radar Petition at 3.  RTCM also states 
that it is preparing a revised standard for radar installations on towing vessels, which it will recommend to Coast 
Guard.  We will address this issue in a subsequent proceeding after the development of appropriate standards.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
11
failed to update a cross-reference later in the rule.  We propose
76
to revise Section 80.273 accordingly to 
clarify that radar installations on compulsory vessels must meet the standards now incorporated in Section 
80.273(a).
77
  
G. Portable Marine VHF Radios on Shore
29. Section 80.115(a)(2) of the Commission’s Rules prohibits the use on shore of a portable 
marine VHF radio transmitter associated with a vessel.
78
  The GMDSS Task Force asserts that this rule is 
frequently ignored because of the ease and convenience with which such radios can be used to 
communicate between vessels and shore parties.
79
  It proposes that the rule be amended to allow persons 
on shore within three miles to use portable marine VHF radios to communicate with their vessel under the 
authority of the ship station authorization.
80
  
30. Under the current rules, portable marine VHF radios may be used on shore only pursuant 
to a private coast station license or a marine utility station license.
81
  Only certain maritime-related entities 
are eligible,
82
and communications may pertain only to the operational and business needs of ships.
83
  
Limitations on the use of maritime frequencies are intended to minimize interference to marine-related 
communications, particularly distress and safety messages.
84
  That private coast station and marine utility 
stations must be individually licensed (as opposed to most ship stations, which are licensed by rule
85
) 
facilitates efforts to identify interference sources.  The prohibition on other use of portable marine VHF 
radio transmitters on shore provides a bright-line rule that licensees understand and the Commission can 
enforce.
86
    
31. We tentatively conclude that it would not further the public interest to permit the use of 
portable marine VHF radio transmitters by persons on shore under the authority of their ship station 
authorization.  While the GMDSS Task Force asserts that the difficulty of enforcing the existing 
prohibition breeds disrespect for the Commission’s rules, it does not explain how its proposed rule would 
more effectively be enforced to ensure that portable marine VHF radio transmitters are used on shore only 
to communicate with an associated vessel and only within three miles.  Nor does the petition explain why 
shore parties’ communications needs cannot be met by CMRS or PRS options.
87
  We invite commenters 
                                                     
76
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Section 80.273(a).  
77
See Ship Radar Public Notice, 27 FCC Rcd at 6047.
78
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.115(a)(2).
79
See GMDSS Task Force Petition at 1-2.
80
Id. at 2.  
81
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.507; see also, e.g., WTB Releases Fact Sheet on New Ship Radio Licensing Procedures (WTB 
rel. Dec. 2, 1996) (1996 WL 689017) (“You must have a special license, called a marine utility station license, to 
operate a hand-held marine radio from land -- a ship station license IS NOT sufficient.”).
82
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.501(a).
83
See 47 C.F.R. §§ 80.507(a), 80.515.
84
See Enforcement Bureau Reminds Boaters of Marine Radio Rules:  Directs Boaters to Check Safety 
Communications Equipment to Ensure Compliance, Public Notice, 26 FCC Rcd 7756, 7756-57 (EB 2011).
85
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.13(c).
86
See, e.g., Vincent E. Aversa, Jr., Notice of Apparent Liability for Forfeiture, 26 FCC Rcd 1181, 1181-82 ¶¶ 3-4 
(EB 2011); Danny R. McKinney, Forfeiture Order, 20 FCC Rcd 10084, 10084 ¶ 3 (EB 2005).
87
SeeMariTEL, Inc. and Mobex Network Services, LLC, Report and Order, WT Docket No. 04-257, 22 FCC Rcd 
8971, 8977 ¶ 8 (2007) (“demand to use the frequencies for maritime public correspondence communications seems 
to be waning, due in large part to the availability to mariners of cellular, PCS, and satellite services”); Amendment 
of the Commission’s Rules Concerning Maritime Communications, Second Report and Order and Second Further 
(continued….)
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
12
to discuss whether the rule is as widely ignored as the GMDSS Task Force suggests, and, if so, what 
actions the Commission can take (e.g., increasing outreach, strengthening warnings) to address the 
problem.
32. Commenters in support of the GMDSS Task Force’s proposal should address how the 
public interest would be served by allowing such use.  We ask commenters to discuss whether allowing 
routine VHF communications between shore parties and associated vessels would have a negative impact 
on maritime communications,
88
and how to minimize such an impact.  For example, if use of a portable 
marine VHF radio transmitter on shore is permitted, should it be limited to or excluded from particular 
channels?  
H. VHF Digital Small Message Services (VDSMS)
33. Channels in the 156-162 MHz band in the international VHF Marine Band defined in 
Appendix 18 of the ITU Radio Regulations
89
are used by ship stations to communicate with coast stations 
and other ship stations. Channels are made available according to the type of communication and the 
nature of the ship’s operation. Private communications frequencies are available for safety 
communications, calling, control of ship movement, and navigational purposes.
90
Other channels are 
designated for VHF Public Coast (VPC) station use and are available for public correspondence.
91
In the 
United States, maritime communications generally are limited to particular emission designators in order 
to avoid interference between users; a full range of data transmissions that satisfy the applicable emission 
mask limits is permitted only on VPC frequencies and one channel in Alaska.
92
34. The ITU has recognized the future need for worldwide systems to exchange data and 
email on maritime VHF channels and the availability of new digital data systems that provide this service 
efficiently and without harmful interference to marine users.
93
In order to meet this need and to ensure 
interoperability, RTCM has, in accordance with these and other relevant international reports and 
standards, developed a technical standard for VDSMS that enables transmission of short digital messages 
without interfering with other communications on the same channel.
94
  The RTCM VDSMS standard 
specifies minimum functional and technical requirements for VDSMS.
95
  The standard allows for 
(Continued from previous page)                                                            
Notice of Proposed Rule Making, PR Docket No. 92-257, 12 FCC Rcd 16949, 16960 n.45 (1997) (Maritime Second 
R&O) (“Exempt vessel operators may choose to install a marine VHF radio, cellular phone, citizens band (CB) 
radio, amateur radio or no radio at all based on their areas of operation and communications needs.”).
88
See Part 95 NPRM, 25 FCC Rcd at 7668-69 ¶ 45 (expressing concern about interference to marine distress, safety, 
and navigation communications from land-based use of radios that combine Family Radio Service frequencies and 
VHF marine frequencies).
89
See ITU Radio Regulations App. S18.
90
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.373(f).
91
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.371(c).
92
See 47 C.F.R. § 80.207(d); see also Amendment of Parts 13 and 80 of the Commission’s Rules Concerning 
Maritime Communications, Second Report and Order, Sixth Report and Order, and Second Further Notice of 
Proposed Rule Making, WT Docket No. 00-48, 19 FCC Rcd 3120, 3156 ¶ 69 (2004); Maritime Second R&O, 12 
FCC Rcd at 16981 ¶ 64.
93
See Recommendation ITU-R M.1842.1, Characteristics of VHF radio systems and equipment for the exchange of 
data and electronic mail in the maritime mobile service RR Appendix 18 channels; Report ITU-R M.2122, EMC 
assessment of shore-based electronic navigation (eNAV) infrastructure and new draft Standards for data exchange in 
the VHF maritime mobile band (156-174 MHz).
94
See RTCM Standard 12301.1 for VHF-FM Digital Small Message Services, dated July 10, 2009.
95
The standard contains general requirements for VDSMS, e.g., operating frequencies, channel access method, 
receiver characteristics, and electromagnetic compatibility with other radio systems in the geographical/spectral 
(continued….)
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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VDSMS to be integral to marine VHF receiving and transmitting communications equipment.  It specifies 
a channel access method that transmits data only when the channel is not being used, so that calls in 
progress are not disrupted.
96
  
35. RTCM proposes that the Part 80 rules be amended to incorporate its VDSMS standard 
by reference in order to permit transmission of short data messages on VHF maritime private 
communications frequencies.
97
  Specifically, it proposes amending Section 80.351
98
to authorize VDSMS 
operation, and Section 80.361
99
to incorporate the RTCM standard and specify that VDSMS will not be 
permitted on or adjacent to marine safety and security channels and other channels excluded under 
Appendix 18 of the Radio Regulations.
100
  
36. We believe that accommodating VDSMS in the Commission’s rules will advance the 
Commission’s goal of promoting flexibility and efficiency in the use of marine radio equipment in a 
manner that will further maritime safety.  VDSMS can significantly enhance maritime communications 
without competing or interfering with the current use or users.  We tentatively conclude, therefore, that 
we should amend Part 80 to incorporate by reference the RTCM standard and provide for the certification 
and use of VDSMS equipment that complies with that standard.
101
  To this end, we propose to amend 
(Continued from previous page)                                                            
vicinity of the VDSMS.  See id. at 1.  RTCM notes that it plans future separate Annexes to the standard that will 
include requirements for the two specific technology implementations (the 9600 BPS modulation used in 
Recommendation ITU-R M.1371-3 and the 43200 BPS ?/8 D8PSK modulation used in Recommendation ITU-R 
M.1842 Annex 1) to include specifics such as packet data structure, message types, error detection/correction and 
other technical details associated with each technology.  Id.  We will seek comment on these proposed requirements 
at that time.
96
See RTCM SMS Petition at 5.
97
See id.  Twenty-six supporting comments were filed in response to the Public Notice seeking comment on the 
RTCM SMS Petition, Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau Reference Information Center Petition for 
Rulemakings Filed, Public Notice, Report No. 2898 (CGB rel. Sept. 15, 2009) 
(http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-293413A1.pdf).  See Comments of Sea Tow Services 
International (filed Oct. 15, 2009); Comments of MariTEL (filed Oct. 15, 2009); Comments of Peter Frederiksen 
(filed Oct. 8, 2009); Comments of Steve Burdett (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Don Gemmell (filed Oct. 5, 
2009); Comments of Steve Amato (filed Oct. 6, 2009); Comments of Paul Raposa (filed Oct. 6, 2009); Comments of 
Ryan Fitchett (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Roy Collins (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Roger B. Zavacki 
(filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Rich Kolasinski (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of  Pat Adams (filed Oct. 5, 
2009); Comments of Lisa Verdine (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Kenneth E. Skiles (filed Oct. 5, 2009); 
Comments of Jon Jowett (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Jim Ryan (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Jay Riling 
(filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of  Pat Kerekes (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of Andrew Davala (filed Oct. 9, 
2009); Comments of Todd Tally (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comment of John Bonnett (filed Oct. 5, 2009); Comments of 
James I. Fear (filed Oct 5, 2009); Comments of Robert Stearns (filed Oct 2, 2009); Comments of Anacortes Marine 
Electronics, Inc. (filed Oct. 2, 2009); Comments of Steve Wallace (filed Oct. 2, 2009); Comments of GMDSS Task 
Force (filed Sept. 22, 2009).
98
47 C.F.R § 80.351.
99
47 C.F.R § 80.361.
100
See RTCM SMS Petition at 6-8.  Specifically RTCM proposes to exclude Channels 6 (156.300 MHz), 67 
(156.375 MHz), 70 (156.525 MHz), 13 (156.650 MHz), 15 (156.750 MHz), 75 (156.775 MHz), 16 (156.800 MHz), 
76 (156.825 MHz), 17 (156.850 MHz),  22A (157.100 MHz), 87A (161.975), and 88A (162.025 MHz), and Vessel 
Traffic Services (VTS) channels designated by Section 80.373(f), 47 C.F.R § 80.373(f), in Coast Guard VTS areas.
101
In addition, we agree with RTCM that VDSMS operation on the non-excluded VHF frequencies would be 
subject to existing eligibility requirements. See Letter dated August 26, 2009 from R.L. Markle, President, RTCM 
to Jason Smith, President & CEO, MariTEL, Inc. (attached to Comments of MariTEL, Inc.).  For example, 
recreational vessels could not operate on commercial frequencies, and no use of VPC frequencies would be 
permitted without the VPC licensee’s consent.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
14
Section 80.351 and add a new Section 80.364,
102
and we seek comment thereon.  Commenters should also 
address the potential costs of RTCM’s proposal.  In addition, we ask commenters to address whether any 
other Part 80 rules should be amended, or any additional standards incorporated, in order to implement 
this proposal.  Commenters should also address the potential costs of RTCM’s proposal.  Finally, we seek 
comment on whether to amend the Part 80 technical rules to permit VDSMS on VHF maritime private 
communications frequencies without adopting any specific standard.  
I. Prohibition of Applications to Assign or Transfer Control of Ship Licenses
37. Under the Commission’s Rules, ship licenses, unlike most other types of wireless radio 
licenses, may not be assigned or transferred.
103
  As a consequence, an entity that holds ship licenses 
among other types of wireless radio licenses that it wishes to assign or transfer to another entity may not 
include the ship licenses on the FCC Form(s) 603 it files to request authorization for the assignment or 
transfer of the non-ship licenses.  Instead, the licensee must submit the ship licenses to the Commission 
for cancellation, and the entity wishing to acquire those licenses must instead apply for new ship licenses 
in its own name.  Due to uncertainty as to when the applications for the new ship licenses will be granted, 
there may be a need for the applicant to request special temporary authorization to ensure that the existing 
ship radio stations may continue to be used without disruption during the interim before the new licenses 
are granted.
38. The prohibition on assigning or transferring ship licenses therefore requires applicants 
and Commission licensing personnel to undertake a relatively cumbersome process when control of ship 
radio station assets are to change hands, and there appears to be little public interest benefit, if any, for 
continuing the prohibition.  We note the Commission has eliminated the analogous prohibition on the 
assignment or transfer of aircraft licenses.
104
We see no basis for treating ship station licenses differently.  
We therefore propose to amend Section 1.948 of the Commission’s Rules to remove the prohibition on 
the assignment or transfer of ship licenses.
105
  Commenters supporting such an amendment should address 
whether any other of the Commission’s Rules should be amended in order to permit assignment or 
transfer of ship radio station licenses, and whether ship license assignments and transfers could occur 
under the same basic regulatory framework, and using the same FCC Form 603, as is now used for the 
assignment and transfer of other wireless licenses.  Parties opposing this proposal to allow transfers and 
assignments of ship station licenses on Form 603 are requested to explain in detail why they believe that 
allowing such transfers and assignments might be contrary to the public interest.
                                                     
102
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Sections 80.351 and 80.364.
103
See 47 C.F.R. § 1.948(b)(5).  The only other types of wireless licenses that may not be assigned or transferred are 
Amateur, Commercial Operator and, except for the 218-219 MHz Service, Personal Radio Services licenses.  Id.  
The Personal Radio Services generally are licensed by rule.  See generally 47 C.F.R. Part 95.  The bar on assigning 
or transferring Amateur and Commercial Operator licenses is a logical corollary of the requirement that applicants 
for such licenses pass an examination to demonstrate their qualifications.  See 47 C.F.R. §§ 13.201 (examination 
requirement for Commercial Operator license applicants), 97.501 (examination requirement for Amateur Radio 
Service license applicants).
104
See Review of Part 87 of the Commission’s Rules Concerning the Aviation Radio Service, Third Report and 
Order, WT Docket No. 01-289, 25 FCC Rcd 7610, 7619 ¶ 15 (2010).
105
See Appendix B, infra, proposed Section 1.948(b)(5).
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
15
J. Editorial Corrections
39. The Commission recently amended its rules concerning commercial radio operator 
licenses for maritime and aviation radio stations.
106
  When certain Part 80 rules
107
were amended to reflect 
these changes, references to Title III of the Communications Act inadvertently were codified as 
references to Title II, and certain subparagraphs were inadvertently deleted from another rule.
108
  We 
propose to correct these and other typographical errors in the Part 80 rules.
109
IV. PROCEDURAL MATTERS
40. Regulatory Flexibility Analysis.  The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, as amended 
(RFA),
110
requires that a regulatory flexibility analysis be prepared for notice-and-comment rulemaking 
proceedings, unless the agency certifies that “the rule will not, if promulgated, have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.”
111
  As required by the RFA,
112
the 
Commission has prepared an Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) of the possible significant 
economic impact on small entities of the policies and rules proposed in this Notice of Proposed Rule 
Making (Notice).  The analysis is found in Appendix A.  We request written public comment on the 
IRFA.  Comments must be filed in accordance with the same filing deadlines for comments on the Notice, 
and must have a separate and distinct heading designating them as responses to the IRFA.  The 
Commission will send a copy of this Notice of Proposed Rule Making, including the IRFA, to the Chief 
Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration.
41. Paperwork Reduction Analysis.  This NPRM does not contain proposed information 
collection(s) subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995, Public Law 104-13.  In addition, therefore, 
it does not contain a proposed new or modified “information collection burden for small business 
concerns with fewer than 25 employees,” pursuant to the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act of 2002, 
Public Law 107-198, see 44 U.S.C. § 3506(c)(4).  
42. Ex Parte Presentations.  The proceeding this Notice initiates shall be treated as a 
“permit-but-disclose” proceeding in accordance with the Commission’s ex parte rules.
113
  Persons making 
ex parte presentations must file a copy of any written presentation or a memorandum summarizing any 
oral presentation within two business days after the presentation (unless a different deadline applicable to 
the Sunshine period applies).  Persons making oral ex parte presentations are reminded that memoranda 
summarizing the presentation must (1) list all persons attending or otherwise participating in the meeting 
at which the ex parte presentation was made, and (2) summarize all data presented and arguments made 
during the presentation.  If the presentation consisted in whole or in part of the presentation of data or 
arguments already reflected in the presenter’s written comments, memoranda or other filings in the 
proceeding, the presenter may provide citations to such data or arguments in his or her prior comments, 
memoranda, or other filings (specifying the relevant page and/or paragraph numbers where such data or 
                                                     
106
See Amendment of the Commission’s Rules Concerning Commercial Radio Operators, Report and Order, WT 
Docket No. 10-177, 28 FCC Rcd 532 (2013).
107
47 C.F.R. §§ 80.157, 80.159(b), 80.1005.
108
47 C.F.R. § 80.203(g)(3)(i)-(iv).
109
For example, we also propose to correct errors in the sections incorporating by reference IEC 61097-3, IEC 
61097-7, and IEC 61097-12.  See 47 C.F.R. §80.7(d)(5), (8), (12) (stating 1097 instead of 61097).
110
The RFA, see 5 U.S.C. §§ 601-612, was amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 
1996 (SBREFA), Pub. L. No. 104-121, Title II, 110 Stat. 857 (1996).
111
5 U.S.C. § 605(b).
112
5 U.S.C. § 603.
113
47 C.F.R. §§ 1.1200 et seq.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
16
arguments can be found) in lieu of summarizing them in the memorandum.  Documents shown or given 
to Commission staff during ex parte meetings are deemed to be written ex parte presentations and must 
be filed consistent with rule 1.1206(b).  In proceedings governed by rule 1.49(f) or for which the 
Commission has made available a method of electronic filing, written ex parte presentations and 
memoranda summarizing oral ex parte presentations, and all attachments thereto, must be filed through 
the electronic comment filing system available for that proceeding, and must be filed in their native 
format (e.g., .doc, .xml, .ppt, searchable .pdf).  Participants in this proceeding should familiarize 
themselves with the Commission’s ex parte rules.
43. Comment Dates and Filing Procedures.  Pursuant to sections 1.415 and 1.419 of the 
Commission’s rules, 47 C.F.R. §§ 1.415, 1.419, interested parties may file comments and reply comments
on or before the dates indicated on the first page of this document.  Comments may be filed using the 
Commission’s Electronic Comment Filing System (ECFS).  See Electronic Filing of Documents in 
Rulemaking Proceedings, 63 FR 24121 (1998).
? Electronic Filers: Comments may be filed electronically using the Internet by accessing the 
ECFS:  http://apps.fcc.gov/ecfs//.  
? Paper Filers: Parties who choose to file by paper must file an original and one copy of each filing.  
If more than one active docket or rulemaking number appears in the caption of this proceeding, 
filers must submit two additional copies for each additional docket or rulemaking number.
44. Filings can be sent by hand or messenger delivery, by commercial overnight courier, or 
by first-class or overnight U.S. Postal Service mail.  All filings must be addressed to the Commission’s 
Secretary, Office of the Secretary, Federal Communications Commission.
? All hand-delivered or messenger-delivered paper filings for the Commission’s Secretary 
must be delivered to FCC Headquarters at 445 12
th
St., SW, Room TW-A325, 
Washington, DC 20554.  The filing hours are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  All hand deliveries 
must be held together with rubber bands or fasteners.  Any envelopes and boxes must be 
disposed of before entering the building.  
? Commercial overnight mail (other than U.S. Postal Service Express Mail and Priority 
Mail) must be sent to 9300 East Hampton Drive, Capitol Heights, MD  20743.
? U.S. Postal Service first-class, Express, and Priority mail must be addressed to 445 12
th
Street, SW, Washington DC  20554. 
45. People with Disabilities:  To request materials in accessible formats for people with 
disabilities (braille, large print, electronic files, audio format), send an e-mail to fcc504@fcc.gov or call 
the Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-418-0432 (tty).  
46. Comments, reply comments, and ex parte submissions will be available for public 
inspection during regular business hours in the FCC Reference Center, Federal Communications 
Commission, 445 12
th
Street, S.W., Room CY-A257, Washington, D.C.  These documents will also be 
available via ECFS.  Documents will be available electronically in ASCII, Microsoft Word, and/or Adobe 
Acrobat.
47. For further information, contact Mr. Jim Shaffer, Mobility Division, Wireless 
Telecommunications Bureau, (202) 418-1306 or TTY (202) 418-7233; or via e-mail at 
james.shaffer@fcc.gov .
V. ORDERING CLAUSES
48. Accordingly, IT IS ORDERED, pursuant to sections 4(i), 301, 303(r), 308, 309, 
332(a)(2), 356, and 384 of the Communications Act of 1934, 47 U.S.C. §§ 154(i), 301, 303(r), 308, 309, 
332(a)(2), 356, and 384, that this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is HEREBY ADOPTED.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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49. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the petitions for rulemaking filed by the Radio 
Technical Commission for Maritime Services on June 20, 2009, RM-11667, and August 19, 2009, RM-
11563, ARE GRANTED to the extent set forth herein and otherwise DENIED.
50. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the petition for rulemaking filed by the National 
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System Implementation Task Force on June 10, 2009, RM-11540, IS 
DENIED.
51. IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that the Commission’s Consumer and Governmental 
Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, SHALL SEND a copy of this Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking, including the Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis, to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of 
the Small Business Administration.
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
Marlene H. Dortch
Secretary
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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APPENDIX A
Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis
As required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA),
1
the Commission has prepared this present 
Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) of the possible significant economic impact on small 
entities by the policies and rules proposed in the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (Notice).  Written public 
comments are requested on this IRFA.  Comments must be identified as responses to the IRFA and must 
be filed by the deadlines for comments provided in this Notice.  The Commission will send a copy of the 
Notice, including this IRFA, to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration.
2
  
In addition, the Notice and IRFA (or summaries thereof) will be published in the Federal Register.
3
A. Need for, and Objectives of, the Proposed Rules
In the Notice, we seek comment on rule amendments that are intended to enhance maritime safety
and promote the efficient use of maritime radio spectrum.  We also seek to conform the Commission’s 
Part 80 rules with international standards where doing so will not undermine domestic regulatory 
objectives.  
In the Notice, we first request comment on whether to require emergency position indicating 
radio beacons (EPIRBs) be capable of broadcasting GPS data when activated.  EPIRBs are carried on 
board ships to alert others of a distress situation, and to assist search and rescue units in locating those in 
distress.  EPIRBs that transmit GPS coordinates enable search and rescue authorities to determine an 
accurate location significantly faster than traditional EPIRBs, which rely on satellite Doppler shift to 
identify the distress location.  Second, we invite comments on whether to update the equipment standards 
for Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs).  Like EPIRBs, PLBs send distress signals that are detected by 
satellite and relayed to search and rescue authorities.  Incorporation of the most recent standards will 
ensure that PLBs meet current functional and technical parameters.  Third, we ask commenters to 
consider whether we should amend the rules to authorize equipment certification and use of Satellite 
Emergency Notification Devices (SENDs) under Part 95 of the Commission’s Rules, or continue to 
authorize them under Part 25.  SENDs also send distress signals, but they typically are subscription 
services that utilize commercial mobile satellite service systems.  Fourth, we ask whether to permit 
equipment certification and use of Maritime Survivor Locating Devices (MSLDs).  MSLDs are intended 
for use by persons at risk of falling into the water such as mariners and workers on marine installations or 
docks.  Fifth, we ask whether to provide for equipment certification and use of Automatic Identification 
System Search and Rescue Transmitters (AIS-SARTs) devices that comply with international standards.  
Like EPIRBs, SARTs are carried on board ships to alert others of a distress situation, and to assist search 
and rescue units in locating those in distress. Unlike traditional 9 GHz SARTs, AIS-SARTs a unique 
identification code and GPS coordinates to all AIS-equipped vessels within VHF radio range.  Sixth, we 
solicit comment of clarifying certain radar equipment standards that must be met by voluntary and 
compulsory vessels.  The standards currently incorporated in the rules impose unnecessary burdens on 
voluntary vessels.  Seventh, we ask commenters to consider whether we should permit the use of portable 
marine VHF radio transmitters by persons on shore.  Eighth, we invite comment on whether to permit 
VHF digital small message service (VDSMS) on certain maritime VHF channels to promote flexibility 
and efficiency in the use of marine communications.  Finally, we request comment of whether to allow 
applications of assignment or transfer control of ship licenses.
                                                     
1
See 5 U.S.C. § 603.  The RFA, see 5 U.S.C. §§ 601-612, has been amended by the Small Business Regulatory 
Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA), Pub. L. No. 104-121, Title II, 110 Stat. 857 (1996).
2
See 5 U.S.C. § 603(a).
3
See id.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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B. Legal Basis
Authority for issuance of this item is contained in Sections 4(i), 303(r), and 332(a)(2) of the
Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. §§ 154(i), 303(r), 332(a)(2).
C. Description and Estimate of the Number of Small Entities to Which the Proposed Rules 
Will Apply
The RFA directs agencies to provide a description of and, where feasible, an estimate of the 
number of small entities that may be affected by the proposed rules, if adopted.
4
  The RFA defines the 
term “small entity” as having the same meaning as the terms “small business,” “small organization,” and 
“small governmental jurisdiction.”
5
  In addition, the term “small business” has the same meaning as the 
term “small business concern” under the Small Business Act.
6
  A small business concern is one which (1) 
is independently owned and operated; (2) is not dominant in its field of operation; and (3) satisfies any 
additional criteria established by the Small Business Administration (SBA).
7
  
Marine Radio Services.  Small businesses in the aviation and marine radio services use a marine 
very high frequency (VHF), medium frequency (MF), or high frequency (HF) radio, any type of 
emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) and/or radar, an aircraft radio, and/or any type of 
emergency locator transmitter (ELT).  The Commission has not developed a definition of small entities 
specifically applicable to these small businesses.  For purposes of this analysis, the Commission uses the 
SBA small business size standard for the category Wireless Telecommunications Carriers (except 
satellite),” which is 1,500 or fewer employees.
8
  For this category, census data for 2007 show that there 
were 11,163 establishments that operated for the entire year.
9
  Of this total, 10,791 establishments had 
employment of 999 or fewer employees and 372 had employment of 1000 employees or more.
10
Thus 
under this category and the associated small business size standard, the Commission estimates that the 
majority of wireless telecommunications carriers (except satellite) are small entities that may be affected 
by our proposed action.
11
                                                     
4
5 U.S.C. § 603(b)(3).
5
5 U.S.C. § 601(6).
6
5 U.S.C. § 601(3) (incorporating by reference the definition of “small business concern” in 15 U.S.C. § 632).  
Pursuant to the RFA, the statutory definition of a small business applies “unless an agency, after consultation with the 
Office of Advocacy of the Small Business Administration and after opportunity for public comment, establishes one or 
more definitions of such term which are appropriate to the activities of the agency and publishes such definition(s) in 
the Federal Register.”  5 U.S.C. § 601(3).
7
Small Business Act, 15 U.S.C. § 632 (1996).
8
13 C.F.R. § 121.201, NAICS code 517210;http://www.census.gov/cgi-
bin/sssd/naics/naicsrch?code=517210&search=2007%20NAICS%20Search.
9
U.S. Census Bureau, Subject Series: Information, Table 5, “Establishment and Firm Size: Employment Size of 
Firms for the United States: 2007 NAICS Code 517210” (issued Nov. 2010).
10
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ECN_2007_US_51SSSZ2&prod
Type=tableId.  Available census data do not provide a more precise estimate of the number of firms that have 
employment of 1,500 or fewer employees; the largest category provided is for firms with “100 employees or more.”
11
See 
http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?pid=ECN_2007_US_51SSSZ2&prodT
ype=table
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Wireless Service Providers.  The proposed rules would affect licensees using VHF Public Coast
spectrum.  In the Third Report and Order in PR Docket No. 92-257, the Commission defined the term 
"small entity" specifically applicable to public coast station licensees as any entity employing less than 
1,500 persons, based on the definition under the Small Business Administration rules applicable to 
radiotelephone service providers.  See Amendment of the Commission's Rules Concerning Maritime 
Communications, Third Report and Order and Memorandum Opinion and Order, PR Docket No. 92-257, 
13 FCC Rcd 19853, 19893 (1998) (citing 13 C.F.R. § 121.201, Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) 
Code 4812).  Below, we provide the economic census category and data for wireless entities, which 
encompasses public coast stations.
The SBA has developed a small business size standard for wireless firms within the two broad 
economic census categories of “Paging”
12
and “Cellular and Other Wireless Telecommunications.”
13
  
Under both categories, the SBA deems a wireless business to be small if it has 1,500 or fewer employees.  
For the census category of Paging, Census Bureau data for 2002 show that there were 807 firms in this 
category that operated for the entire year.
14
  Of this total, 804 firms had employment of 999 or fewer 
employees, and three firms had employment of 1,000 employees or more.
15
  Thus, under this category and 
associated small business size standard, the majority of firms can be considered small.  For the census 
category of Cellular and Other Wireless Telecommunications, Census Bureau data for 2002 show that 
there were 1,397 firms in this category that operated for the entire year.
16
  Of this total, 1,378 firms had 
employment of 999 or fewer employees, and 19 firms had employment of 1,000 employees or more.
17
  
Thus, under this second category and size standard, the majority of firms can, again, be considered small.
Radio Equipment Manufacturers.  Some of the rules proposed herein may also affect small 
businesses that manufacture marine radio equipment and radiobeacon equipment designed for distress 
alerting and location.  The Census Bureau does not have a category specific to these equipment 
manufacturers.  The appropriate category is that for wireless communications equipment manufacturers.  
The Census Bureau defines this category as follows: “This industry comprises establishments primarily 
engaged in manufacturing radio and television broadcast and wireless communications equipment.  
Examples of products made by these establishments are: transmitting and receiving antennas, cable 
television equipment, GPS equipment, pagers, cellular phones, mobile communications equipment, and 
radio and television studio and broadcasting equipment.”
18
  The SBA has developed a small business size 
standard for Radio and Television Broadcasting and Wireless Communications Equipment 
Manufacturing, which is all such firms having 750 or fewer employees.
19
  According to Census bureau 
data for 2007, there were a total of 939 firms in this category that operated that year.  Of this total, 912 
                                                     
12
13 C.F.R. § 121.201, NAICS code 517211.
13
13 C.F.R. § 121.201, NAICS code 517212.
14
U.S. Census Bureau, 2002 Economic Census, Subject Series:  Information, “Establishment and Firm Size 
(Including Legal Form of Organization,” Table 5, NAICS code 517211 (issued Nov. 2005).
15
Id.  The census data do not provide a more precise estimate of the number of firms that have employment of 1,500 
or fewer employees; the largest category provided is for firms with “1000 employees or more.”
16
U.S. Census Bureau, 2002 Economic Census, Subject Series:  Information, “Establishment and Firm Size 
(Including Legal Form of Organization,” Table 5, NAICS code 517212 (issued Nov. 2005).
17
Id.  The census data do not provide a more precise estimate of the number of firms that have employment of 1,500 
or fewer employees; the largest category provided is for firms with “1000 employees or more.”
18
http://www.census.gov/econ/industry/def/d33422.htm.  
19
  13 C.F.R. § 121.201 NAICS code 334220.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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had fewer than 500 employees and 27 had 500 or more employees.
20
  Thus, under this size standard, the 
majority of firms can be considered small.  
D. Description of Projected Reporting, Recordkeeping, and Other Compliance Requirements
We invite interested parties to address the economic impact of these possible rule changes on 
small vessel operators, small marine radio equipment manufacturers and other small businesses that may 
be subject to the new requirements.  We seek information on whether the compliance costs may outweigh 
the safety benefits of these rule changes, and whether there are alternative means of securing the safety 
benefits of these requirements through means that are less burdensome to regulatees.  We do not believe 
any of the matters discussed in the Notice would have a direct, significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities.  We note that most of the proposals would not require the 
replacement of any equipment.  Only EPIRBs (which only commercial vessels are required to carry) and 
PLBs (which no vessel is required to carry) might be subject to a requirement to stop using existing 
models after a certain date.  The Notice seeks comment on whether, and if so, when, to phase out existing 
EPIRBs and PLBs.  However, any commenters that disagree with that tentative conclusion are asked to 
explain the basis of that disagreement.
E. Steps Taken to Minimize Significant Economic Impact on Small Entities, and Significant 
Alternatives Considered
The RFA requires an agency to describe any significant alternatives that it has considered in 
reaching its proposed approach, which may include the following four alternatives, among others:  (1) the 
establishment of differing compliance or reporting requirements or timetables that take into account the 
resources available to small entities; (2) the clarification, consolidation, or simplification of compliance or 
reporting requirements under the rule for small entities; (3) the use of performance, rather than design 
standards; and (4) an exemption from coverage of the rule, or any part thereof, for small entities.
21
In the Notice, we ask that commenters provide information on economic impact to manufacturers 
and consumers if the Commission were to adopt various standards to accommodate VDSMS, MSLDs, 
SENDs, and AIS-SARTs.  The proposed requirements for the equipment generally take the form of 
performance standards rather than design standards, and therefore confer on smaller entities the flexibility 
to select the most economical design that can achieve the required performance.  For example, the RTCM 
standards for VDSMS, MSLDs and SENDs equipment that we propose to incorporate in 47 C.F.R. Parts
80 and 95 mandate certain functionality for the equipment but do not mandate that manufacturers design 
their equipment in any particular way in order to achieve that functionality.  
In the Notice, we also seek comment on whether the Commission should require that EPIRBs be 
capable of broadcasting GPS data when activated.  Notwithstanding the important safety benefits that 
would accrue from imposing such a requirement, we request that interested parties to address the cost to 
comply with the requirement and whether the costs of such a requirement would outweigh the safety 
benefits.  Commenters are asked to suggest any alternatives or supplementary measures that can be taken 
to facilitate search and rescue efforts.  Commenters are asked to address measures to reduce the 
compliance burden of such a requirement on small entities.
F. Federal Rules that May Duplicate, Overlap, or Conflict with the Proposed Rules
None.
                                                     
20
See http://factfinder2.census.gov/faces/tableservices/jsf/pages/productview.xhtml?src=bkmk.
21
See 5 U.S.C. § 603(c). 
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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APPENDIX B
Proposed Rules
Chapter I of Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 1, 80 and 95, are proposed to be amended 
as follows: 
PART 1 – PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE
1. The authority citation for Part 1 continues to read as follows:
    AUTHORITY:  15 U.S.C. 79 et seq; 47 U.S.C. 151, 154(i), 154(j), 155, 157, 225, 227, 303(r), 
and 309, Cable Landing License Act of 1921, 47 U.S.C. 35-39, and the Middle Class Tax Relief and 
Job Creation Act of 2012, Pub. L. 112-96.
2. Section 1.948 is amended by revising paragraph (b)(5) to read as follows:
§ 1.948  Assignment of authorization or transfer of control, notification of consummation.
* * * * *
(b)(5) Licenses, permits, and authorizations for stations in the Amateur, Commercial Operator and 
Personal Radio Services (except 218–219 MHz Service) may not be assigned or transferred, unless otherwise 
stated.
* * * * *
PART 80 – STATIONS IN THE MARITIME SERVICES
3. The authority citation for Part 80 continues to read as follows:
AUTHORITY:  Secs. 4, 303, 307(e), 309, and 332, 48 Stat. 1066, 1082, as amended; 47 
U.S.C. 154, 303, 307(e), 309, and 332, unless otherwise noted.  Interpret or apply 48 Stat. 1064-1068, 
1081-1105, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 151-155, 301-609; 3 UST 3450, 3 UST 4726, 12 UST 2377.
4. Section 80.7 is amended by removing paragraphs (d)(17), (g), (g)(1), and (g)(2), 
redesignating current paragraphs (d)(14) through (16) as (d)(15) through (17), adding new paragraphs 
(d)(14) and (f)(4), and revising paragraphs (b)(28), (d)(5), (8), (12), (f)(2), (3), and (g)(1), (2) to read as 
follows:
§ 80.7   Incorporation by reference.
* * * * *
(b) * * *
(28) IMO Resolution MSC.246(83), (“IMO Resolution MSC.246(83)”) “Adoption of 
Performance Standards for Survival Craft AIS Search and Rescue Transmitters (AIS-SART) for Use in 
Search and Rescue Operations.”  IRB approved for § 80.233.
(c) * * *
(d) * * *
(5) IEC 61097-3:1994 (“IEC 61097-3”), First edition, 1994-06, “Global maritime distress and 
safety system (GMDSS)–Part 3:  Digital selective calling (DSC) equipment–Operational and performance
requirements, methods of testing and required testing results,” with Annexes, IBR approved for § 
80.1101.
* * *
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(8) IEC 61097-7:1996 (“IEC 61097-7”), First edition, 1996-10, “Global maritime distress and 
safety system (GMDSS)–Part 7:  Shipborne VHF radiotelephone transmitter and receiver–Operational 
and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results,” IBR approved for § 80.1101.
* * *
(12) IEC 61097-12:1996(E) (“IEC 61097-12”), First edition, 1996-11, “Global maritime distress 
and safety system (GMDSS)–Part 12:  Survival craft portable two-way VHF radiotelephone apparatus–
Operational and performance requirements, methods of testing and required test results,” IBR approved 
for § 80.1101.
* * *
(14) IEC 61097-14 Ed. 1 (“IEC 61097-14”), “Global maritime distress and safety system 
(GMDSS) – Part 14: AIS search and rescue transmitter (AIS-SART) – Operational and performance 
requirements, methods of testing and required test results.” ED 1.0 (2010-02), IRB approved for § 80.233.
* * *
             (f) * * *
(2) RTCM Standard 11000.3 (“RTCM 11000”), “RTCM Standard 11000.3 for 406 MHz Satellite 
Emergency Position-Indicating Radiobeacons (EPIRBs),” June 12, 2012, IBR approved for § 80.1061.
(3) RTCM Standard 11020.1 (“RTCM 11020”), “RTCM Standard 11020.1, Ship Security Alert 
Systems (SSAS) Using the Cospas-Sarsat System,” October 9, 2009, IBR approved for § 80.277.
(4) RTCM Standard 12301.1 (“RTCM 12301”), VHF-FM Digital Small Message Services, July 
10, 2009, IBR approved for § 80.361.
5. Section 80.59 is amended by revising the note in paragraph (a)(1) to read as follows:
§ 80.59 Compulsory ship inspections.
(a) * * *
(1) * * *
Note:  Nothing in this section prohibits Commission inspectors from inspecting ships.  The 
mandatory inspection of U.S. vessels must be conducted by an FCC-licensed technician 
holding an FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License, GMDSS Radio Maintainer’s 
License, Second Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, First Class Radiotelegraph 
Operator’s Certificate, or Radiotelegraph Operator License in accordance with the following 
table:
* * * * *
6. Section 80.157 is amended to read as follows:
§ 80.157 Radio officer defined.
A radio officer means a person holding a First Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, 
Second Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, or Radiotelegraph Operator License issued by the 
Commission, who is employed to operate a ship radio station in compliance with Part II of Title III of the 
Communications Act.  Such a person is also required to be licensed as a radio officer by the U.S. Coast 
Guard when employed to operate a ship radiotelegraph station.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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7. Section 80.159 is amended by revising paragraph (b) as follows:
§ 80.159 Operator requirements of Title III of the Communications Act and the Safety Convention.
* * * * *
(b) Each cargo ship equipped with a radiotelegraph station in accordance with Part II of Title III 
of the Communications Act and which has a radiotelegraph auto alarm must carry a radio officer holding 
a First Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, Second Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, 
or Radiotelegraph Operator License who has had at least six months service as a radio officer on board 
U.S. ships.  If the radiotelegraph station does not have an auto alarm, a second radio officer who holds a 
First Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, Second Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, or 
Radiotelegraph Operator License must be carried.
* * * * *
8. Section 80.203 is amended by adding paragraphs (g)(3)(i)-(iv) to read as follows:
§ 80.203 Authorization of transmitters for licensing.
* * * * *
(g) * * *
(3) * * *
(i) Internal adjustments of the transmitter;
(ii) Use of controls normally inaccessible to the station operator;
(iii) Use of external devices or equipment modules made available only to service and 
maintenance personnel through a service company; and
(iv) Copying of a channel selection program directly from another transmitter (cloning) using 
devices and procedures made available only to service and maintenance personnel through a service 
company.
* * * * *
9. Section 80.231 is amended by revising paragraph (c) introductory paragraph to read as 
follows:
§ 80.231 Technical requirements for Class B Automatic Identification System equipment.
* * * * *
(c) Prior to submitting a certification application for a Class B AIS device, the following 
information must be submitted in duplicate to the Commandant CG-ENG, U.S. Coast Guard
Headquarters, 2100 2nd Street, SW, Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593-7126:
* * * * *
10. Section 80.233 is added to read as follows:
§ 80.233 Technical requirements for Automatic Identification System Search and Rescue 
Transmitters (AIS-SART) equipment.
(a) Automatic Identification System Search and Rescue Transmitter (AIS-SART) equipment must 
meet the technical requirements of IEC 61097-14 and IMO Resolution MSC.246(83) (incorporated by 
reference, see § 80.7(b)).
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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(b) Prior to submitting a certification application for an AIS-SART device, the following information 
must be submitted in duplicate to the Commandant CG-ENG, US Coast Guard Headquarters, 2100 Second 
Street, SW Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593-7126:
(1) The name of the manufacturer or grantee and the model number of the AIS-SART device; and
(2) Copies of the test report and test data obtained from the test facility showing that the device 
complies with the environmental and operational requirements identified in IEC 61097-14.
(c) After reviewing the information described in paragraph (c) of this section, the U.S. Coast 
Guard will issue a letter stating whether the AIS-SART device satisfies all of the requirements specified 
in IEC 61097-14.
(d) A certification application for an AIS-SART device submitted to the Commission must 
contain a copy of the U.S. Coast Guard letter stating that the device satisfies all of the requirements 
specified in IEC 61097-14, a copy of the technical test data, and the instruction manual(s).
11. Section 80.273 is amended by removing paragraph (b), redesignating paragraphs (c) and 
(d) as paragraphs (b) and (c), and revising paragraph (b) to read as follows:  
§ 80.273  Radar standards.
* * * * *
(b)  For any ship of 10,000 tons gross tonnage and upwards or that is otherwise required to be 
equipped with two radar systems, each of the two radar systems must be capable of operating 
independently and must comply with the specifications, standards and general requirements set forth on 
paragraph (a) of this section. One of the systems must provide a display with an effective diameter of not 
less than 340 millimeters (13.4 inches), (16-inch cathode ray tube). The other system must provide a 
display with an effective diameter of not less than 250 millimeters (9.8 inches), (12-inch cathode ray 
tube).
* * * * *
12. Section 80.277 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(1) to read as follows:
§ 80.277 Ship Security Alert System (SSAS).
(a) * * *
(1) Equipment that complies with RTCM 11020 (incorporated by reference, §§ 80.7); or
* * * * *
13. The first heading under Subpart H and Section 80.351 are amended to read as follows:
RADIOTELEGRAPHY AND DATA
§ 80.351 Scope.
The following sections describe the carrier frequencies and general uses of radiotelegraphy and 
data transmission with respect to the following:
-Distress, urgency, safety, call and reply.
-Working.
-Digital selective calling (DSC).
-Narrow-band direct-printing (NB-DP).
-Facsimile.
-VHF-FM digital small message services (VDSMS).
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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14. Section 80.364 is added under the heading for Radiotelegraphy and Data to read as 
follows:
§ 80.364  Frequencies for VHF digital small message services (VDSMS).
(a) Except as set forth in paragraph (b), frequencies in the 156-162 MHz band may be used for 
VHF digital small message services (VDSMS) complying with RTCM 12301 (incorporated by 
reference, see § 80.7).
(b)(1)
VHF-FM CHANNELS NOT AVAILABLE FOR DIGITAL SMALL MESSAGE SERVICE
Channel Frequency (MHz)
06 156.300
67
70
156.375
156.525
13 156.650
15 156.750
75 156.775
16 156.800
76 156.825
17 156.850
22A 157.100
AIS 1/2 161.975/162.025
(2) Unless authorized by the United States Coast Guard, VDSMS is also prohibited in designated 
U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Traffic Service areas on frequencies reserved for those services under § 
80.373(f) of this chapter.
15. Section 80.1005 is amended to read as follows:
§ 80.1005 Inspection of station.
The bridge-to-bridge radiotelephone station will be inspected on vessels subject to regular 
inspections pursuant to the requirements of Parts II and III of Title III of the Communications Act, the 
Safety Convention or the Great Lakes Agreement at the time of the regular inspection.  If after such 
inspection, the Commission determines that the Bridge-to-Bridge Act, the rules of the Commission and 
the station license are met, an endorsement will be made on the appropriate document.  The validity of the 
endorsement will run concurrently with the period of the regular inspection.  Each vessel must carry a 
certificate with a valid endorsement while subject to the Bridge-to-Bridge Act.  All other bridge-to-bridge 
stations will be inspected from time to time.  An inspection of the bridge-to-bridge station on a Great 
Lakes Agreement vessel must normally be made at the same time as the Great Lakes Agreement 
inspection is conducted by a technician holding one of the following:  a General Radiotelephone Operator 
License, a GMDSS Radio Maintainer’s License, a Radiotelegraph Operator License, a Second Class 
Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate, or a First Class Radiotelegraph Operator’s Certificate.  
Additionally, the technician must not be the vessel’s owner, operator, master, or an employee of any of 
them.  Ships subject to the Bridge-to-Bridge Act may, in lieu of an endorsed certificate, certify 
compliance in the station log required by section 80.409(f).
16. Section 80.1053 is amended to read as follows:
§ 80.1053  Prohibition on certification, manufacture, importation, sale or use of Class A, Class B, 
Class S, and INMARSAT-E EPIRBs.
Federal Communications Commission FCC 14-20
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The manufacture, importation, sale or use of Class A, Class B, Class S, or INMARSAT-E 
EPIRBs is prohibited.  New Class A, Class B, Class S, or INMARSAT-E EPIRBs will no longer be 
certified by the Commission.
17. Section 80.1061 is amended to revise paragraphs (a), (c) introductory paragraph, (c)(1), 
and (c)(1)(ii) to read as follows:
§ 80.1061  Special requirements for 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB stations.
(a) Notwithstanding the provisions in paragraph (b) of this section, 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRBs 
must meet all the technical and performance standards contained in RTCM 11000 (incorporated by 
reference, see § 80.7), and must also comply with the standards specified in § 80.1101(c)(5).
* * *
(c) Prior to submitting a certification application for a 406.0-406.1 MHz radiobeacon, the 
radiobeacon must be certified by a test facility recognized by one of the COSPAS-SARSAT Partners that 
the equipment satisfies the design characteristics associated with the measurement methods incorporated 
in RTCM Standard 11000 (incorporated by reference, see § 80.7).  Additionally, the radiobeacon must be 
subjected to the environmental and operational tests associated with the test procedures described in 
Appendix A of RTCM Standard 11000 (incorporated by reference, see § 80.7), by a test facility accepted 
by the U.S. Coast Guard for this purpose.  Information regarding accepted test facilities may be obtained 
from Commandant CG-ENG-4, US Coast Guard Headquarters, 2100 Second Street, SW Stop 7126, 
Washington, DC 20593-7126, http://cgmix.uscg.mil/EQLabs/EQLabsSearch.aspx. 
(1) After a 406.0-406.1 MHz EPIRB has been certified by the recognized test facilities the 
following information must be submitted in duplicate to the Commandant CG-ENG, U.S. Coast Guard
Headquarters, 2100 2nd Street, SW Stop 7126, Washington, DC 20593-1726:
* * *
(ii) Copies of the certificate and test data obtained from the test facility recognized by a 
COSPAS/SARSAT Partner showing that the radiobeacon complies with the COSPAS-SARSAT design 
characteristics associated with the measurement methods described in the COSPAS/SARSAT Standard 
C/S T.001 and COSPAS-SARSAT Standard C/S T.007, and RTCM 11000 (all incorporated by reference, 
see § 80.7);
* * * * *
18. Section 80.1085 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(3) to read as follows:
§ 80.1085  Ship radio equipment–General.
* * * * *
(a) * * *
(3) A radar transponder capable of operating in the 9 GHz band or an AIS-SART, which 
must be stowed so that it is easily utilized (this device may be one of those required by § 80.1095(b) 
for survival craft);
* * * * *
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19. Section 80.1095 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as follows:
§ 80.1095  Survival craft equipment.
* * * * *
(b) At least one radar transponder (or AIS-SART) must be carried on each side of every 
passenger ship and every cargo ship of 500 tons gross tonnage and upwards.  At least one radar 
transponder (or AIS-SART) must be carried on every cargo ship of 300 tons gross tonnage and 
upwards but less than 500 tons gross tonnage.  Such radar transponders (or AIS-SARTs) must 
conform to performance standards as specified in § 80.233 or § 80.1101.  The radar transponders (or 
AIS-SARTs) must be stowed in such locations that they can be rapidly  placed in any survival craft 
other than liferafts required on cargo ships in forward and aft areas (see Regulation III/26.1.4 of the 
SOLAS Convention).  Alternatively, one radar transponder (or AIS-SART) must be stowed in each 
survival craft other than those required by Regulation III/26.1.4 of the SOLAS Convention.  One of 
these radar transponders (or AIS-SARTs) may be the radar transponder (or AIS-SART) required by 
§ 80.1085(a)(3).
* * * * *
PART 95 – PERSONAL RADIO SERVICES
20. The authority citation for part 95 continues to read as follows:
AUTHORITY:  Secs. 4, 303, 48 Stat. 1066, 1082, as amended; 47 U.S.C. 154, 303.
21. Subpart K is amended to revise the title to read as follows:
Subpart K —Personal Locator Beacons (PLB) and Maritime Survivor Locating Devices 
(MSLD) 
22. Section 95.1400 is amended to read as follows:
§ 95.1400   Basis and purpose.
The rules in this subpart are intended to provide individuals in the water or in remote areas a 
means to alert others of an emergency situation and to aid search and rescue personnel in locating those in 
distress.
23. Section 95.1402 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as follows:
§ 95.1402   Special requirements for 406 MHz PLBs.
     (a) All 406 MHz PLBs must meet all the technical and performance standards contained in the Radio 
Technical Commission for Maritime (RTCM) Service document “RTCM Standard 11010.2 for 406 MHz 
Satellite Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs),” with Amendment 1, and with Amendment 2,  dated June 8, 
2012. This RTCM document is incorporated by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a), and 1 CFR 
part 51. Copies of the document are available and may be obtained from the Radio Technical Commission 
for Maritime Services, 1611 N. Kent Street, Suite 605, Arlington, Virginia 22209. The document is 
available for inspection at Commission headquarters at 445 12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554. 
Copies may also be inspected at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: 
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
* * * * *
24. Section 95.1403 is added to read as follows:
§ 95.1043 Special requirements for Maritime Survivor Locating Devices.
(a) Maritime Survivor Locating Devices (MSLDs) are devices intended to aid in the location of 
persons in the water. Use on land is not authorized.
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(b) Every MSLD sold in the United States after [INSERT DATE ONE YEAR AFTER 
EFFECTIVE DATE] that provides the functions described in this section, must meet all the technical and 
performance standards contained in RTCM document “RTCM Standard 11901.1 for Maritime Survivor 
Locating Devices (MSLD), dated June 4, 2012.” This RTCM document is incorporated by reference in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a), and 1 CFR part 51. Copies of the document are available and may be 
obtained from the Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services, 1611 N. Kent Street, Suite 605, 
Arlington, Virginia 22209. The document is available for inspection at Commission headquarters at 445 
12th Street SW., Washington, DC 20554. Copies may also be inspected at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-
741-6030, or go to:
http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.  
(c) All MSLDs must:
(1) Transmit on at least one of the following frequencies:  121.5 MHz, 156.525 MHz, 156.750 
MHz, 156.800 MHz, 156.850 MHz, 161.975 MHz, 162.025 MHz; or
(2) Include a function intended to send a distress message directly to the U.S. Coast Guard or any 
other search and rescue organization.
(d) No device may be marketed or sold in the United States as a “MSLD” or “Maritime Survivor 
Locating Device” unless it is compliant with the requirements in this section.
(e) Before an MSLD certification application is submitted to the Commission, the applicant must 
have obtained test report from a test laboratory which shows that the MSLD complies with the electrical 
and environmental standards associated with RTCM 11901.1. The test laboratory must be accredited to 
ISO/IEC 17025 with a scope covering the applicable requirements and test procedures.