[FreedomCalls]

So, theoretically, if I open mine up like that for Ham use, I can’t BLOCK it (to other hams)

That's not true. There are plenty of closed 2-meter repeaters that won't allow access unless you have paid a club membership. You can't encrypt it, but like you said, you can restrict access via MAC filtering or other means. THAT is legal.

[Rick.Donaldson]

That's not true. There are plenty of closed 2-meter repeaters that won't allow access unless you have paid a club membership. You can't encrypt it, but like you said, you can restrict access via MAC filtering or other means. THAT is legal.

Closed repeater systems are not "closed". Frequencies MUST be open to allow emergency communication. Period. A "closed" system means by gentleman's agreement, however, if you're not following the repeater owner's RULES and are asked to cease and desist you THEN are TRESPASSING. (And if asked to leave and you refuse, a complaint can be filed with the FCC, and they, in turn will enforce this request under the right circumstances.) You're correct about restricting access via MAC filtering and I stated that. There is no argument there. Note: "A repeater is not a public utility - you don’t have a "right" to use it! When you are using someone else’s repeater you are, in effect, a visitor in the owner’s station. So, you should conduct yourself accordingly. If you use that station in a manner that the owner finds objectionable, that person has every right to revoke your privilege of using it!" (Source: The ARRL’s FCC Rule Book)