The band in question was formerly used for analog TV. The wireless mics (and IEM, personal listening devices, etc. ANYTHING that broadcasts in those frequencies) used the spaces between the TV stations. When they quit analog TV it wasn't to make TV better, it was so the FCC could sell the licensing of those bands, as asserted earlier for other communications devices. Those include emergency bands, but also 4G networks, etc.
And the reason for the rebate is to get the stuff back, refurbish it, and sell it in countries where those frequencies are still available. Yes, it does apply to evangelists. My church is going to have to replace or discontinue use of one of our wireless mics because it's in that range. From what I've read, the FCC wasn't really aware of how much wireless there was. It's not just week-end warrior bar bands. Even low level high-school theatre productions will use a bunch of wireless systems now. I just did sound for a simple play at a middle school (7 & 8 grade) and we had six wireless mics going. Add in the semi-pro (you local community theater) and pro theatre, churches (my small church uses at least three, and sometimes four wireless units at each service), etc. and there's a TON of gear out there in these bands.
It may or may not impact you directly, but at some point those bands are going to get increasingly crowded and you'll find more and more interference. Plus if you're caught causing the interference, you're the one that's liable under the FCC rules.
John
