Captured Agency: How the Federal Communications Commission Is Dominated by the Industries It Presumably Regulates

Captured Agency: How the Federal Communications Commission Is Dominated by the Industries It Presumably Regulates - book review
by Norm Alster, 2015 - Published by: Edmond J. Safra Center for Ethics Harvard University
Click here for full text of book.

Ever wonder who really runs Washington? Ever have the sense that the agencies which are supposed to regulate industry actually report to it? Ever get angry that Washington lawmakers and regulators seem more interested in protecting corporations than in protecting public health?

If so, you will want to read this fascinating account of how corporate technology interests have won inordinate access to—and power over—a major regulatory agency. The Federal Communications Commission sits at the heart of a bipartisan Washington web of institutional corruption that has for many years championed corporate interests, typically at public expense. Echoing industry, the FCC has ignored the growing evidence that wireless technologies pose serious health risks. It has indirectly taxed consumers billions to pay for the pet projects of tech executives and lobbyists. FCC policies have enabled cable companies to charge the highest rates in the world while forcing consumers to pay for channels they don’t want.

How can all this happen in a system where elected representatives approve and supervise regulatory officials? An online survey conducted for this project suggests that corporate interests have a huge ally in public ignorance of their most damaging (but obscure) triumphs and tactics.

https://alumni.columbia.edu/content/captured-agency-how-federal-communications-commission-dominated-industries-it-presumably

FCC says tests find cellphones comply with federal limits on radiofrequency radiation

FCC says tests find cellphones comply with federal limits on radiofrequency radiation
By Joe Mahr, Chicago Tribune, Dec 20, 2019

Responding to a Tribune investigation that found some popular cellphone models measured above federal limits for radiofrequency radiation, the Federal Communications Commission said this week that its own testing found all eight models it evaluated were in compliance.

The testing commissioned by the Tribune, conducted according to federal guidelines at an accredited laboratory in California, examined 11 cellphone models from four manufacturers. The phones were purchased new. Among other findings, the Tribune reported that all four Apple iPhone 7s tested yielded results exceeding the federal limit.

At the time, Apple disputed the results and said the lab used by the newspaper did not test the phones the same way it does.

Cell Phones are Not Tested Touching the Body: FCC Tests are Rigged.

Cell Phones are Not Tested Touching the Body: FCC Tests are Rigged. 

(8 mn., 20 December 2019)

Environmental Health Trust

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JgL-VlR1Nuw

GBM Incidence Rates Relatively Steady in U.S. and Canada Unlike the Doubling Seen in England

GBM Incidence Rates Relatively Steady in U.S. and Canada
Unlike the Doubling Seen in England
microwavenews.com, 13 December 2019

The incidence of glioblastoma multiforme, GBM, the most aggressive type of brain tumor, though rising slowly over the last 20 years, has not jumped up in the U.S. and Canada, as it has in England and a number of other northern European countries, according to a new analysis of national brain tumor registry data.

Between 1995 and 2015, GBM rates went up 10% in the U.S. and 26% in Canada. In contrast, the increase in England over the same period was 110%.

United States: Ericsson Agrees to Pay Over $1 Billion to Resolve FCPA Case

“Ericsson’s corrupt conduct involved high-level executives and spanned 17 years and at least five countries, all in a misguided effort to increase profits,” said Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Such wrongdoing called for a strong response from law enforcement, and through a tenacious effort with our partners in the Southern District of New York, the SEC, and the IRS, today’s action not only holds Ericsson accountable for these schemes, but should deter other companies from engaging in similar criminal conduct.”

Ericsson Agrees to Pay Over $1 Billion to Resolve FCPA Case
Ericsson Subsidiary Pleads Guilty to FCPA Violations

U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Public Affairs, Press Release, 6 December 2019

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (Ericsson or the Company), a multinational telecommunications company headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, has agreed to pay total penalties of more than $1 billion to resolve the government’s investigation into violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) arising out of the Company’s scheme to make and improperly record tens of millions of dollars in improper payments around the world. This includes a criminal penalty of over $520 million and approximately $540 million to be paid to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in a related matter. An Ericsson subsidiary pleaded guilty today for its role in the scheme.

United States: FeganScott Law Firm Confirms PhoneGate: New FCC-Accredited Lab Results Show Apple and Samsung Smartphone RF Radiation Levels Exceed Federal Limit

FeganScott Law Firm Confirms PhoneGate: New FCC-Accredited Lab Results Show Apple and Samsung Smartphone RF Radiation Levels Exceed Federal Limit
Equipe Phonegate 8 Dec 2019

We are relaying the press release just published by the law firm Fegan Scott. We observe with great interest that they now use the term “PhoneGate” in the title of their release.

SAN FRANCISCO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Dec 6, 2019–

National consumer-rights law firm FeganScott consolidated its two proposed class action suits against Apple (AAPL) and Samsung Electronics (SSNLF) after independent testing from a Federal Communications Commission-accredited laboratory confirmed that radio-frequency (RF) radiation levels from popular Apple and Samsung smartphones far exceeded federal limits when the devices are used as marketed by the manufacturers.

Beth Fegan, managing partner of FeganScott and the attorney representing the consolidated suit, which was filed after the firm hired the industry-recognized lab, says that smartphone manufacturers must take responsibility for misleading consumers about the levels of RF radiation emitted by their smartphones when used against or in close proximity to the user’s skin.

Phonegate: [Press release] Users warned about 3 French mobile phone models from 3 manufacturers

This warning most certainly concerns users who have purchased these 3 models from the brands BlackBerry, Doro and Selecline in other European countries.

[Press release] Users warned about 3 French mobile phone models from 3 manufacturers
Equipe Phonegate 5 Dec 2019

Our analysis of the National Frequencies Agency (ANFR) database revealed that 3 smartphone models controlled in 2018 and 2019 by ANFR and announced as having a “compliant” trunk specific absorption rate (SAR) were tested more than 5mm from the skin. This is confirmed by the extract from the database below. We therefore wrote to ANFR in August 2019 to inform them of this apparent anomaly in view of the test results and ask for explanations.

Unscrupulous application of the principle of anteriority of the law

U.S. Phonegate? Cell Phone Safety Guidelines Exceeded in Study…Lawsuit Follows

U.S. Phonegate? Cell Phone Safety Guidelines Exceeded in Study…Lawsuit Follows
mdsafetech.org (Physicians for Safe Technology), 29 November 2019

FCC Safety Guidelines Were Exceeded in Chicago Tribune Cell Phone Tests

The Chicago Tribune recently investigated cell phone safety by testing 11 models of popular cell phones, both according to the manufacturers recommended distance from the head (5 to15 mm), as well as in a manner consistent with how they are used, i.e. close to the head. The accredited lab found that with some of the phones the levels exceeded the FCC guidelines both at recommended positions and in close proximity to the body. A class action lawsuit was filed against Apple and Samsung by a group of lawyers in California, Illinois and Iowa who state the manufacturers “intentionally misrepresented” the safety of these phones. The attorneys argue that numerous scientific publications show that radiofrequency radiation exposure affects living organisms at levels well below international guidelines. These RF guidelines are based only on heating of tissues, not demonstrated complex biological effects. Dr. Lennart Hardell points out in his research that increased usage of both cell phones and cordless phones, which emit fairly similar radiation levels, is associated with brain tumors. If the lawsuit is found valid will this be the Phonegate of the United States?

French Phonegate: 2017

Switzerland: Shame on Roger Federer for Advertising in Favor of 5G Technology!

The Swiss tennis champ, Roger Federer, has been advertising in favor of 5G technology.  We sent him this letter last year.  He never replied.

Dear Mr. Federer,

We are extremely disappointed that you have accepted to participate in advertising in favor of 5G technology.

You have small children and should be aware that this technology will be adding to the health effects of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) already being emitted by previous technologies, 2G, 3G, 4G. Children, with their smaller, developing bodies, are especially vulnerable to this type of radiation.

Your advertising is also in direct contradiction to the democratic vote of the Swiss Parliament – and the voice of the people - last year not to raise limit values of mobile phone antennas as a requirement for the launch of 5G.

The presence of billions of connected objects will make us more stressed, vulnerable to cybercrime, disconnected and poisoned by RF radiation. Health services will be under pressure to cope with a pandemic of diseases resulting from increased exposure. The economy will be affected by rising health costs and lost productivity at work.

Switzerland: Mobile Telephony and Radiation: an inconsistent and biased federal report that ignores environmental impact

We will be publishing on both "Towards Better Health" and "Mieux Prévenir" reactions, press releases, articles etc. concerning the Swiss federal report of the working group "Mobile telephony and radiation" released on 28 November 2019.

Mobile telephony and radiation: an inconsistent and biased federal report that ignores environmental impact

Press release, Stop5G Association, 29 November 2019 - translation

The French-speaking Swiss association Stop5G questions the credibility of the results published yesterday by the ad hoc working group mandated by DETEC [Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications]. The composition of the working group questions and casts doubt on the scientific legitimacy of the health component of the report. In addition, Stop5G is surprised at the lack of consensus on the development of the network and notes the strong divergence of the proposals, some of which, favorable to the industry, foresee a 500% increase in the current radiation. The Association of Doctors for the Environment, a member of the working group, has also expressed strong criticism of this possible increase and considers that the health impact of non-ionizing radiation (NIR) has not been sufficiently studied. Finally, the deadlock in the report on environmental impacts and liability aspects is also a major concern. 

Switzerland: The Report of the Working Group on Mobile Communications and Radiation is Available

The report of the Working Group on Mobile Communications and Radiation is available
FOEN, 28 November 2019 - unofficial translation

Link to the report in French:
Rapport «Téléphonie mobile et rayonnement» (PDF, 2 MB, 28.11.2019)

28.11.2019 - The Mobile Telephony and Radiation Working Group has submitted its report on the needs and risks associated with the deployment of 5G networks to the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC). This unprecedented and comprehensive report compiles the facts on the subject of mobile telephony and radiation and sets out options for further action by the interest groups concerned. In addition, it presents accompanying measures and recommendations. DETEC will decide what action to take.

France Issues Decree and Order on Exposure to Waves Emitted by Radioelectric Equipment

France has just issued a decree and an order in the Official Gazette of 17 November 2019 with regard to exposure to waves emitted by radioelectric equipment.  

(Original notice published on 20 November 2019 from the Legal and Administrative Information Directorate (Prime Minister) **

"Tablets, connected watches, radio-controlled toys... From 1 July 2020, the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) will be displayed on all radioelectric equipment likely to be used in the vicinity of the human body (up to 20 centimeters). To date, this display requirement only applies to mobile phone devices."

A decree and an order were published to this effect in the Official Gazette of 17 November 2019.

The permissible SAR limit values are:

• 2 W/kg (watts per kilogram) for head and trunk ;
• 4 W/kg for members.

Reminder: In an opinion dated 21 October 2019, the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES) states that some expert reports highlight biological effects on brain activity when exposed to a SAR level above 2 W/kg.

Reference texts [only the ANSES report is in English]

Italy: Cell phones and tumors, the alarming broadcast of Le Iene and the 7 rules for using the smartphone in the best way

Cell phones and tumors, the alarming broadcast of Le Iene and the 7 rules for using the smartphone in the best way
by maria.mento, newnotizie.it, 21 November 2019 - auto-translation

In a report broadcast at Le Iene, the dangers of the radiation released by smartphones and their correlation with the development of tumors are discussed: the data

Le Iene, Matteo Viviani, went to Bologna to meet Fiorella Belpoggi , the Director of the Cancer Research Center of the Ramazzini Institute in Bologna . Dr. Belpoggi and her team have been conducting radiation experiments on mobile phones and equipment for more than two decades and are studying their impact on human beings . The broadcast by Le Iene then tried to answer an alarming question that we all have been asking for a long time: is there a correlation between the onset of cancer and the mobile phones we use?

Cells and tumors, Bologna experiments confirm that radio frequencies promote cancer

Russia: The Federation Council Announced the Preparation of a Law Governing Electromagnetic Radiation

‎The Federation Council announced the preparation of a law governing electromagnetic radiation
by Anastasia Alekseeva; Boris Grishin, riafan.ru, 20 November 2019 - auto-translation

The Federation Council supported the proposal of the Russian National Committee for Protection against Nonionizing Radiation to label sources of electromagnetic fields.

We are talking about sticker signs, which are designed to protect the population from uncontrolled contact with mobile phones, tablets, computers, Wi-Fi routers. Scientists told the Federal News Agency [FAN] at the All-Russian Conference about the new development .

“People should know that this is dangerous and harmful to health,” Vladimir Krugly, member of the Federation Council Committee on Social Policy, told the FAN correspondent.  "We write "smoking harms your health." In the same way, it can be written on the phone that the phone is harmful to your health."

Sacopee Valley (Maine) 8th grade science class investigates WI-FI

This video is English: Sacopee Valley (Maine) 8th grade science class investigates WI-FI.

PREUVE DE LA DANGEROSITÉ DU WIFI SUR LE VIVANT (Proof of the dangerousness of Wi-Fi on the living) - (20 Nov. 2019 - 5 min.)

Please share! Sacopee Valley (Maine) 8th grade science class investigates WI-FI.

Silas Hagerty - November 19:
Check out our first ever Web Series "Pioneers of Science"!!! It was awesome working with the Sacopee Valley 8th grade science class this past spring on this first episode about WI-FI.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tHXLDPA5c9I&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR1-c_LXC5ch-r4kov8LgyztmWwAipU1NHBXyhB6cZyk8IfqIETMcnnEdWc


See also  "Eight-Year-Old Second Grader's Science Fair Project: 'What Wireless Can Do To You'"
https://mieuxprevenir.blogspot.com/2017/04/eight-year-old-second-graders-science.html

Brain cancers : 4 times more new cases of glioblastoma in 2018 according to Public Health France

According to the national agency Santé publique France, the annual number of new cases of glioblastoma (the most aggressive brain cancer) has increased fourfold and more for both sexes between 1990 and 2018. Exposure to waves among the possible factors mentioned by the agency. Dr. Marc Arazi and Dr. Annie J. Sasco react for Task Force Phonegate Alert and call on public authorities to protect the health of children, young people and millions of mobile phone users

[Press release] Brain cancers : 4 times more new cases of glioblastoma in 2018 according to Public Health France
Equipe Phonegate 18 Nov 2019

In July 2019 (updated in September 2019), the French Public Health Agency “Santé Publique France“, together with the Francim cancer registries, the Hospices Civils de Lyon and the Institut National du Cancer, published national estimates of cancer incidence and mortality in metropolitan France between 1990 and 2018. These are based on the modeling of observed incidence data (new cases) until 2015 by cancer registries, supplemented by projections until 2018.

Volume 1 of the report is devoted to solid tumors (27 tumors and 22 subtypes). Between 1990 and 2018, the overall incidence rate of solid tumors remained relatively stable in men and continued to increase in women. At the same time, the annual number of new cases of glioblastoma with histological confirmation (one of the most aggressive types of brain cancer) has increased fourfold and more for both sexes.

In 20 years, the number of glioblastomas multiplied by 4, affecting all ages

Canada Apple, Samsung Class Action Alleges Radiation Exposure From Phones

Canada Apple, Samsung Class Action Alleges Radiation Exposure From Phones
By Emily Sortor, topclassactions.com, 13 November 2019

A class action lawsuit says that the radiation produced by Apple and Samsung phones exceeds the amount of radiofrequency radiation legally allowed by Canada’s government.

The class action lawsuit was filed by Tracey Arial, Claire O’Brien, Erika Patton, Alex Tasciyan, Mathew Nucciaroni, and Vito DeCicco, who say they all own and use phones made by Samsung and Apple.

Arial says she is a freelance journalist who resides in Quebec. She reportedly purchased a Samsung Galaxy S8 in August 2019, before which she owned a Samsung Galaxy S5. She says that she regularly carries and uses the phone on or near her body.

Phonegate: MEP Michèle Rivasi Questions the European Commission

Phonegate: MEP Michèle Rivasi questions the European Commission
Equipe Phonegate 15 Nov 2019

Following the invitation on October 1, 2019 to the European Parliament of Dr Marc Arazi by MEPs Philippe Lamberts, Michèle Rivasi and Klaus Buchner of the Greens/EFA, and the alert issued to parliamentarians and organisations gathered at this event on the Phonegate health and industrial scandal, a written question was tabled by Michèle Rivasi on October 9, 2019 before the European Commission.

We would like to thank her for her support and mobilisation at European level to protect the health of hundreds of millions of mobile phone users.

Apple Samsung Smartphone Radiation Class Action: Update from Law Firm Fegan Scott

Class Action Updates

Apple, Samsung Smartphone Radiation Class Action

We currently have two cases on file, with 27 plaintiffs, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California. We have requested that the Court consolidate those cases. We will then file a consolidated amended complaint in December to add additional plaintiffs to represent more states and more smartphone models. If you previously provided us with your information, we may be contacting you shortly to discuss how you can help protect the class. You can also email us through the link below to tell us you wish to discuss acting as a class representative. Email us now

Plaintiffs' RF Exposure Test Results

We hired an FCC-accredited laboratory to test three iPhone models and three Samsung smartphone models. The test results confirmed that the RF radiation omissions far exceed regulatory limits (1.6 W/kg) when the phones are put in your pocket or held against your ear. Stay tuned for the full results when we file our amended complaint in December! Visit our website for additional case information

iPhone 7+ test results At 0 millimeters, the RF exposure averaged 3.034 W/kg and reached 5.87 W/kg -- more than 3x times the federal exposure limit!

Samsung S10 test results At 0 millimeters, the RF exposure averaged 4.294 W/kg and reached 9.17 W/kg, nearly 600% more than the federal exposure limit!

https://www.feganscott.com/

France : Hypersensitivity to waves: "a reality" for former Minister of Agriculture Stéphane Le Foll

VIDEO: Hypersensitivity to waves: "a reality" for former Minister of Agriculture Stéphane Le Foll. 

Following the press conference of the association "Animaux sous tension", Stéphane Le Foll, former Minister of Agriculture and Mayor of Le Mans, spoke about hypersensitivity to waves.
actu.fr, 5 November 2019 - translation

Today, Mayor of Le Mans, Stéphane Le Foll was Minister of
Agriculture from 2012 to 2017. (Photo: ©Les Nouvelles de Sablé)

It is in Le Mans (Sarthe) that the National Association of Live Animals (ANAST) held a press conference on Monday, November 4, 2019. In particular, reference was made to the legal action taken to defend the rights and interests of livestock farmers seriously affected by electromagnetic radiation.

The administrative court was seized on 31 October to obtain the communication of numerous documents held by the Ministry of Agriculture.

Hypersensitivity to waves: "a reality"

The current mayor of the Sarthe capital is none other than Stéphane Le Foll, the former Minister of Agriculture under the presidency of François Hollande...

When questioned by us on Tuesday, November 5, 2019, he no longer avoids the subject as he had done in the past.

France: INVESTIGATION: Electromagnetic fields and waves: the new environmental scandal?

Following is just one article in a series published by actu.fr "Electromagnetic fields and waves: the new environmental scandal?" (in French).  We will be posting a few of them in English.

INVESTIGATION: Electromagnetic fields and waves: the new environmental scandal?

Farmers accuse electromagnetic radiation from high-voltage lines, wind turbines and relay antennas of killing their animals. What is it really about?
by Anne-Sophie Blot, actu.fr, 4 November 2019 - translation

Farmers accuse, among other things, high and very high
voltage power lines of being at the root of their problems.
(© Adobestock illustration)

Hundreds of cows dying, no longer giving milk, developing signs of dementia and no longer resistant to disease. Calves born with deformities. Rabbits dying by the thousands. Pigs refusing to get up, becoming aggressive, even cannibalistic. And sometimes, human health also begins to deteriorate.

For more than twenty years, livestock farmers throughout France have been facing massive losses and abnormal behavior in their herds. They are now convinced that their problems are linked to the radiation of electromagnetic fields and waves.

The culprits, according to them: (very) high-voltage power lines, power transformers, relay antennas, wind turbines and photovoltaic panels located on or near their operations.

Grouped together in an association, a dozen of these farmers announced on Monday, November 4, 2019 that they would take legal action with the help of their lawyer, François Lafforgue.

Open Letter to the French Government: Protection of the health of users overexposed to mobile phone waves: the appeal from our associations to the government!

[Open letter] Protection of the health of users overexposed to mobile phone waves: the appeal from our associations to the government!
Equipe Phonegate 8 Nov 2019

Today, Marianne magazine publishes on its website this open letter to French Ministers Agnes Buzyn, Elisabeth Borne and Bruno Le Maire, signed with six other associations working to protect public health.. We are counting on you to relay it and sign the petition.

Open Letter to the French government

For more than 30 years, mobile telephony manufacturers have deliberately chosen to deceive billions of mobile phone users, by overexposing them well beyond the exposure thresholds that generate risks to the health of citizens and their children. This new industrial and health scandal has a name: “Phonegate“.

MRIs show screen time linked to lower brain development in preschoolers

MRIs show screen time linked to lower brain development in preschoolers
By Sandee LaMotte, CNN, updated 4 November 2019

(CNN) Screen time use by infants, toddlers and preschoolers has exploded over the last decade, concerning experts about the impact of television, tablets and smartphones on these critical years of rapid brain development.

Now a new study scanned the brains of children 3 to 5 years old and found those who used screens more than the recommended one hour a day without parental involvement had lower levels of development in the brain's white matter -- an area key to the development of language, literacy and cognitive skills.

"This is the first study to document associations between higher screen use and lower measures of brain structure and skills in preschool-aged kids," said lead author Dr. John Hutton, a pediatrician and clinical researcher at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. The study was published Monday in the journal JAMA Pediatrics.

Mobile telephony and public health: Is Switzerland an absent subscriber?

Mobile telephony and public health: Is Switzerland an absent subscriber?
Equipe Phonegate 3 Nov 2019

Called upon in the context of the Phonegate industrial and health scandal by Léon Warnier, Swiss Phonegate Alert Coordinator, the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (SFOPH) initially declared itself incompetent. After a cascading referral to different authorities, the FOPH claims to be unaware of which office is responsible for protecting the health of smartphone users!

On August 19, 2019, Alerte Phonegate called on the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (SFOPH) with specific questions concerning the health protection of smartphone users.

On 8 October 2019, after 50 days and a reminder, the FOPH replied:

“The Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) is not competent to answer your questions. Please contact the Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM)."

Switzerland: "Among specialists, two visions clash": Interview on electrohypersensitivity with Dr. Martin Forter, Director of Doctors for the Environment (MfE)

Interview on electrohypersensitivity with Dr Martin Forter, Director of Doctors for the Environment (MfE)

Among specialists, two visions clash
by Lucie Monnat, ABO+, Tribune de Genève, 2 November 2019 . translation

Dr. Martin Forter
(Image: Dave Joss)

Can we say that electrosensitivity is a real disease, or is it an affliction that comes from the mind?

Electrosensitivity is not a diagnosis, but a subjective notion. Some people assume that the cause of their ailments is related to wireless or electrical devices, or that their condition is getting worse under the influence of electrosmog. In representative surveys conducted in Germany and abroad, 5% of respondents reported that they were electrosensitive. But none of the studies conducted so far have been able to demonstrate a correlation between patient complaints and electrosmog.

WHO therefore does not recognize a causal link. For us, the results are not convincing from a medical point of view. The researchers tested people's ability to perceive or not exposure to waves under conditions specially created for their study. These can never reflect actual conditions. As part of a pilot project (editor's note: in collaboration with the Federal Office of Public Health), we carried out a physical, psychological and environmental examination of electrosensitive patients.

"More lawsuits expected against smartphone manufacturers"

More lawsuits expected against smartphone manufacturers: Apple and Samsung are accused of negligence, breach of warranty, and consumer fraud, as well as profiting off of placing consumers at risk. 

Class Action Launched Against Cell Phone Companies over Radiation Risk
consumersafetyguide.com, 4 October 2019

A class-action lawsuit has been filed against cell phone manufacturers Samsung and Apple after it was determined that radiation emitted by smartphones exceed government-established safety standards.

The test was commissioned by the Chicago Tribune and determined that radiation exposure was higher than the legal safety limit. It was also determined that radiation from Apple’s iPhone 7 is double what the company told federal regulators. Samsung phones emitted lower levels of radiation but did exceed safety standards by a great deal when held at a distance of 2mm from the body.

The lawsuit alleges that despite manufacturer claims, testing has shown the products to be dangerous.

French government asks the European Commission for new SAR based on real life use of the mobile phone

French government asks the European Commission for new SAR based on real life use of the mobile phone

Lennart Hardell's Blog, lennarthardellenglish.wordpress.com, 29 October 2019

As already presented the present SAR for mobile phones is based on a distance of 5 mm between the phone and body (skin). The real situation for most persons is no distance (0 mm). According to Microwave News the French government asks for new SAR measurements based on real-life situation, see excerpts. For more details see Microwave News:

On October 25, the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health issued a statement with these key points: 

 
1. France will ask the European Commission to reinforce the requirements for new mobile phones put on the market. As recommended by the National Agency for Safety, Environment and Labor (ANSES), the Government will request that the approval tests be carried out in contact with the apparatus, and not 5 mm away as is currently the case. This will be more representative of actual exposures;

Switzerland: Federal Court: towards a control of the emission values of mobile phone antennas

Federal Court: towards a control of the emission values of mobile phone antennas

ats / lenouvelliste.ch, 31 October 2019 - translation

TELECOMMUNICATIONS: The Federal Court considers that the Federal Office for the Environment should check the emission limit values of mobile telephone antennas.

The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) is invited to check that the emission limit values for mobile phone antennas are respected. The Federal Court thus draws the conclusions of an audit conducted in 2016 in Canton Schwyz.

The private company commissioned by Schwyz found that of the 14 antennas inspected, 8 did not comply with the heights and emission directions specified in the building permits. However, these parameters have an essential influence on the radiation emitted by mobile phone installations, as indicated in the judgment adopted on Thursday by the Neue Zürcher Zeitung.

5G, Cell Phone Radiation and Cancer: Dr. Anthony Miller Interview

Theodora Scarato, Executive Director of the Environmental Health Trust, interviews cancer expert, Dr. Anthony Miller who emphasizes the risks to children from exposure to radiofrequency radiation from wireless devices, Wi-Fi... Please share widely.

5G, Cell Phone Radiation and Cancer: Dr. Anthony Miller Interview (30 October 2019, 58 min.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1PLrvYzCB10&fbclid=IwAR3wmFyn35Hwi9KfO89w1LJMKJYEUub2NuX3aJu9o4GQ17ZslfbTRIS-boI

Phonegate: Exposure to Mobile Phones Under French Government Scrutiny

Exposure to mobile phones under government scrutiny
By Damien Coulomb, Le Quotidien du médecin, 28 October 2019 - English translation by Phonegate Alert

Photo credit: Phanie

The Ministries of Health, Ecological and Solidarity Transition and Economy and Finance have announced measures to limit exposure to emissions from certain mobile phones.

In particular, France will ask the European Commission to strengthen the requirements for new mobile phones placed on the market. The government will require that the certification tests be performed on contact with the device and not at 5 mm as is currently the case.

This series of measures follows the opinion issued on 21 October by the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES). The latter noted that a significant number of mobile phones in circulation did not comply with the new European directives known as "RED" (transposed into French law in 2016).

Close to the Body, Certain Smartphones Emit Too Many Waves

Close to the body, certain smartphones emit too many waves.
by Nina Schretr, 60millions-mag.com, 23 octobre 2019 - translation

iStock/Kristina Jovanovic

Excess waves emitted by mobiles placed on the market before 2017 may present risks for the user. At least 18 models are involved.

Updated 25 October 2019
The [French] Government reacts to the publication of the ANSES report

The government has just announced that it will soon meet with mobile phone manufacturers to update the software of models placed on the market before the current standard was implemented.

The National Frequencies Agency (ANFR) will also strengthen the control of phones in 2020.

The government also undertakes to ask the European Commission to ensure that device certification tests are now carried out in contact with the body, as recommended by ANSES, and no longer at 5 mm as is currently the case.

France’s Health Agency Issues Recommendations To Limit Smartphone Radiation And Test Phones At Body Contact

France’s Health Agency Issues Recommendations to Limit Smartphone Radiation and Update PreMarket Compliance Testing of Cell Phone Emissions to Include Body Contact Positions
ehtrust.org, October 2019

The French National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (ANSES) has just released a report entitled “Mobile phones close to the body and health.” ANSES recommends that measures be taken to ensure users are no longer exposed to cell phone radiation levels that exceed regulatory limits, consumers are educated about the manufacturers’ instructions for a separation distance and compliance testing of emission be updated so that cell phones’ radiation tests are performed in positions of body contact.

Excerpts from the ANSES Report:

ANSES Opinion on Exposure to Mobile Telephones Carried Close to the Body

ANSES announcement in English of publication of its opinion, "Exposure to mobile telephones carried close to the body" - at end of article there is a link to a 16-page document in English setting out details of the opinion.

ANSES Opinion on the possible health effects associated with high specific absorption rate values from mobile telephones carried close to the body

Exposure to mobile telephones carried close to the body
anses.fr, 21 October 2019

Testing of exposure to waves emitted by mobile telephones was modified in 2016 to take changes in models and uses into account. Since then, manufacturers have been required to assess exposure under realistic conditions of use, i.e. when the telephone is placed very close to the body, at a maximum distance of 5 mm. However, many telephones complying with the earlier regulations, and still in use, generate high levels of exposure when placed close to the body. ANSES was therefore asked to assess the possible health effects associated with these exposure conditions. Following its expert appraisal, ANSES recommends that measures be taken to ensure that users are no longer subject to high levels of exposure when telephones are carried close to the body.

A need to adapt standards to take changes in mobile telephones into account

Phonegate: French ministerial announcements: an important step in our actions to protect the health of mobile phone users

French ministerial announcements: an important step in our actions to protect the health of mobile phone users
Equipe Phonegate 25 Oct 2019

In a joint statement published today, the French ministries of Health, Ecology and Economy announced several proposals for action to strengthen health protection for mobile phone users in France and Europe. These are in the context of the recommendations made on 21 October 2019 by the French health & safety agency in its report entitled “Mobile phones worn close to the body and health”, and the mobilization actions of our association following the revelation in July 2016 by Dr Marc Arazi of the Phonegate industrial and health scandal.

For our President:

“This is undoubtedly another victory for our association and for all the partner organisations, independent scientists, lawyers who are members of the Consortium, journalists who work in France and abroad to protect the health of the 5 billion mobile phone users”.

However, we regret the lack of consultation with the associations that are fighting this fight. We reiterate our call for a meeting with the ministers concerned. To this end, we will take an initiative in the coming days.

Press release translated by Phonegate Alert

[Note: We have modified the format to better reflect that of the original press release published by the French Government.]

5 Billion Mobile Phone Users in the World: How Many Users Are Exposing Themselves to Levels of Microwave Radiation Beyond Regulatory Standards?

Serious damage can be caused to
the unborn child in the womb from
exposure to microwave radiation
emitted by wireless technologies.

Re-Posted: 23 October 2019: More than ever relevant! **

5 Billion Mobile Phone Users in the World: How Many Users Are Exposing Themselves to Levels of Microwave Radiation Beyond Regulatory Standards?
by Meris Michaels, mieuxprevenir.blogspot.ch, 22 July 2017

“While the Swiss are very disappointed in the new European directive on roaming, there has been no attention accorded to the evolution of the "Phonegate" scandal, revealing that 9 out of 10 mobile phones exceed the legal standards of radiation set by the European Union when used in contact with the body. These same norms govern Switzerland. This scandal, which echoes "Dieselgate" in terms of the failure of international monitoring protocols, risks to be even more serious.” - Extract from "Phonegate" - Readers' Mail, Tribune de Genève, 13 July 2017

“PhoneGate… is more about the massive discrepancy between how phones are tested and how they are actually used in real life. In other words, the cell phone makers aren’t deceiving the regulators. Instead, the regulators allow the cell phone makers to deceive the public, while still complying with the law.”

“As a physician, I am deeply concerned about what this means for our health and especially the health of our children.” 

- Dr. Marc Arazi, French physician who launched the alert on Phonegate

The Swiss are more concerned about the high cost of phone calls made when in other European countries than they are about the health consequences of exposure to mobile phone radiation. How many of these 5 billion persons are aware of the health effects of microwave radiation emitted by these devices? How many people know that there are warnings in cell phones manuals or in the cell phone itself that regulatory radiation standards may be exceeded when the phone is held against the body? How many people carry the phone in the pocket or tucked in the bra, or use it glued to the ear for long phone conversations?

French National Agency Conducts SAR Tests on Cell Phones in Contact with the Body

Following is an extract from our post, "Time to Wake Up to the Global Public Health Issue of Phonegate" (17 September 2019 update).  We have updated the section on SAR tests conducted by the French National Frequencies Agency (ANFR) on cell phones in contact with the body, to explain in more detail the issues raised in the report by ANSES (French National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety), "Mobile Phones Close to the Body and Health" ("Téléphones mobiles portés près du corps et santé").

French national agency conducts SAR tests on cell phones in contact with the body

Phonegate : [Breaking News] The Recommendations of ANSES Call Upon the Public Authorities and Industry to Face their Health Responsibilities

[Breaking news] The recommendations of ANSES call upon the public authorities and industry to face their health responsibilities
Equipe Phonegate 21 Oct 2019

The French National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (ANSES) has just made public the first part of its expert group report entitled “Mobile phones close to the body and health“, dated July 2019. For Dr. Marc Arazi, who launched the alert on the Phonegate scandal in July 2016:

“This is undoubtedly a great step forward and a tremendous recognition for our international alert action. The public and industrial authorities are now faced with their responsibilities and must inform mobile phone users of the health risks involved.”

This had been expected since the end of 2017, following our appeal to the public authorities and the request made by the General Directorate of Health (Ministry for Solidarity and Health) and the Directorate of Risk Prevention (Ministry for the Ecological and Inclusive Transition) to ANSES to be informed of the health risks for adults and children exposed to specific absorption rate (SAR) levels of more than 2 W/kg (European legal limit).

The Dangerous Push For More Technology In Schools

The Dangerous Push For More Technology In Schools
By Dr. Devra Davis, Opinion, ibtimes.com, 19 October 2019

A legacy of President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society, Title 1 schools, are located in some of the poorest neighborhoods in this nation. More than half of all schools in America are eligible for special funding to enhance educational programming and community engagement. Over half of the covered students are in elementary schools, with one in every eight in preschool and kindergarten. Riddled with violent crime, environmental contamination, and limited expectations, disproportionately jailed teens from these schools are poorly prepared for the technologically-based job market.

As a result, they face the highest unemployment rate as young adults.

If there ever were a Trojan Horse of public education, it is stabled with technologists now generously giving away Virtual Reality and other fun tech toys. Verizon, Google, and others have donated hundreds of millions in educational resources with no recognition that microwave wireless radiation should not be used close to the brains of young children. Betsy Devos, the current Secretary of Education, leads national efforts to sell local school districts on the capacity of charter schools to innovate in the use of laptops for students from preschool through primary school and high school.

Climate, Biodiversity and Health at Risk - Interview with MEP Klaus Buchner (ÖDP) on 5G

Climate, Biodiversity and Health at Risk - Interview with MEP Klaus Buchner (ÖDP) on 5G
diagnose-funk.org, 14 October 2019 - translation

Photo: Simone Lettenmayer

Prof. Klaus Buchner, Member of the European Parliament, worked at the Max Planck Institute for Physics and Astrophysics in Munich, where he received his doctorate in physics, and at the European Research Centre CERN in Geneva. He spent several years abroad and did research at the University of Kyoto (Japan) and at the University of Chandigarh (India). From 1973 until his retirement in 2006 he was a lecturer and professor at the mathematical faculty of the TU Munich. He has been a member of the Accademia Peloritana dei Pericolanti in Messina since 1979 and was awarded the Gold Medal of Merit of the University of Wroclaw in 1992. He joined the Ecological Democratic Party (ÖDP) in 1983. As its federal chairman from 2003 to 2010, one of his main concerns was the networking of the ÖDP with local citizens' initiatives. He currently gives lectures on 5G almost weekly.

diagnose:funk: Prof. Buchner: As an MEP you mainly work on trade agreements and export restrictions for surveillance technology. Why are you involved against 5G?

Switzerland: Text of federal popular initiative “For a health conscious and energy-efficient mobile communications”

Text of federal popular initiative “For a health conscious and energy-efficient mobile communications” - 15 October 2019 - unofficial translation

The proponents of the initiative have until April 15, 2021 to collect the 100,000 signatures needed to force a nationwide vote.

Text:

Published in the Federal Gazette on October 15, 2019. The undersigned Swiss citizens with the right to vote request, pursuant to Articles 34, 136, 139 and 194 of the Federal Constitution and in accordance with the Federal Act of 17 December 1976 on political rights (arts. 68 et seq.), that the Constitution is amended as follows:

Art. 118, al. 2, let. d  It [Confederation] legislates on:

d. protection against non-ionizing radiation; the law regulates the following in relation to the influence of mobile telephony and microwave radiation: 

1. the limit values of the installation set out in the Ordinance of 23 December 1999 on protection against non-ionizing radiation, which are between 4 and 6 volts per meter, should not be measured, not even due to new measurement methods,

2. mobile telephony and Internet services must be divided into outdoor and indoor space; the power and consequently, the electricity consumption of mobile phone transmitters and wireless local area networks must be lowered so that the emissions no longer pass through the damping of the building; inside buildings, the data must be transmitted by fiber-optic or coaxial cables, not by electromagnetic waves,

Europe: Help Us to Find Out If These Unsafe Mobile Phone Models Are Still Available in Your country

Europe: Help us to find out if these unsafe mobile phone models are still available in your country
Equipe Phonegate 16 Oct 2019

Following our alert launched in France in 2016 by Dr. Marc Arazi, we obtained the publication of the test reports of hundreds of control tests carried out since 2012 by our National Frequencies Agency (ANFR).

As a result, we have requested the removal or update of more than 250 of the most popular models.

Since April 2018, 18 different models have been withdrawn from the French market, banned or updated. We have reported this situation to national agencies, such as in Switzerland, Germany and most recently to the European Parliament.

Development of a collaborative database

Switzerland: Popular Initiative Launched Against 5G

Popular initiative launched against 5G

Telephony: The Chancellery has given the go-ahead for the federal initiative "For a healthy and energy-efficient mobile telephony".
ats/nxp / 24heures.ch, 15 October 2019 - translation

The federal initiative "For a healthy and energy-efficient
mobile telephony" is launched.  Image: archive/illustrative
photo/Keystone

The introduction of 5G mobile communication technology in Switzerland raises many concerns. Its opponents have launched a popular initiative limiting the expansion of the network. They have until 15 April 2021 to collect the necessary 100,000 signatures.

The text of the initiative calls for the limit values set by the Ordinance on Protection against Non-Ionising Radiation not to be raised, not even because of new measurement methods.

Mobile telephony and Internet services would be separated between outdoor and indoor space. Thus, the power of the transmitters would need to be lowered so that emissions do not enter a building. Inside, the data would be transmitted by fiber optic or coaxial cables, not by electromagnetic waves.