House Committee Moves Satellite Licensing Bill Forward

House Committee Moves Satellite Licensing Bill Forward

UPDATE In addition to the telecom bills the House Energy and Commerce Committee passed and sent to the full House this week was a measure to speed the FCC’s satellite licensing process. H.R. 8255 was introduced by Committee Chair Representative Brett Guthrie (R-KY), and Ranking Member and co-sponsor Frank Pallone (D-NJ).

Guthrie said during the vote, the bill eliminates unnecessary hurdles for minor license modifications. Pallone added that for the U.S. to lead in space, satellites need predictable licensing procedures. “This bill is beneficial for our country and for the U.S. to remain the leader” in the global space race.

The bill requires the FCC to approve or deny standard geostationary and non-geostationary satellite license applications within one year, and license renewals within 180 days. The measure automatically approves applications if the FCC misses the statutory deadline without a valid, limited extension.

The measure establishes 30-day fast-track reviews for technically similar equipment replacements and receive-only earth stations, plus 90-day expedited reviews for minor modifications. It directs applications fro...