What is EMs philosophy regarding reimbursement and/or pay from served agencies for emcomm services provided by radio amateurs?
Most hams learned when they studied for their license, that receiving “pay” for amateur radio public service is prohibited by law. (An exception is made for public service employees who may use amateur radio incidentally during an emergency or for training purposes while performing their regular paid duties.) Amateurs who respond to disasters are permitted to receive reimbursement for actual out-of-pocket expenses if it is offered. But, they should not make their response contingent upon any reimbursement whether real or perceived. If they are unable or are unwilling to pay their own way…they should stay home and operate as a relay station.
