Many GMRS repeater owners predicted this would happen. Amateur Radio operators were moved off the 440 repeater band in many areas. This was done because Ham radio was the secondary user ina  government spectrum. The Hams were causing interference to government operations so the FCC (Riley Hollingsworth at the time) worked with Hams to mitigate the issue.

Sadly some of these “ham clubs” have retuned Amateur Radio repeaters from 440 to the commercial spectrum and have brought with them poor operating practices, non type accepted equipment, and perhaps even unlicensed operation.

There are reports from California of Hams using call signs they were “told to use” by friends, of Ham type operation including tone CW operation (QSO’s) over GMRS repeaters, and interference to licensed GMRS repeaters.

Hams may not realize it but their childish behaviors may be helping the FCC bring GMRS repeater operation to an untimely end. Ham clubs that have moved their 440 repeaters to GMRS ought to think twice.  American families use GMRS to stay in touch. Hams have THOUSANDS of radio frequencies and many different bands to accomplish their activities. Hams do NOT need to be bringing Ham activity to GMRS.

I for one question whether Amateur Radio is still setting an example. My family has used GMRS since 1995 and since that time Hams we have encountered have been the source of most of the unlicensed operation, interference, and poor operating behaviors. Since the Hams lost 440 it seems to be getting much worse.

Hams, get your Ham gear off GMRS. If you want to put your families on GMRS read the rules and do it the right way. Need a club repeater? Use your own frequencies.