Q) What are the FCC rules regarding power levels used in the amateur bands?
A) An amateur must use the minimum transmitter power necessary to carry out the desired communication.
NJ2X Notes:
Radio amateurs have a long tradition of using minimum power to carry out contacts. In fact, it is a great source of pride for many to break a pile up and beat the "big guns" with a few watts. Skill and a couple of watts (QRP) can do wonders.