Seems like every forum and club meeting I attend has someone griping about ARRL dues going up while membership benefits feel thinner. The organization has seen notable membership decline with many operators frustrated by rising dues and perceived value reductions. Not trying to start a flame war, but curious what others think – are we losing something important or is it time for new approaches to organized ham radio?

Been a member for 30 years and honestly questioning it myself now. QST used to be must-read but with everything online these days, not sure what I'm getting for my money anymore.

Maybe unpopular opinion but I think we need ARRL more than ever for spectrum defense. Yeah the dues sting but who else is going to represent us in DC when the cellular companies come knocking?

As a newer ham (got my General last year), I joined initially but didn't renew. Found better technical info on YouTube and forums than in QST honestly. Spending that money on actual gear instead.