Bipartisan Legislation Would Modernize Satellite Licensing and Expanded Broadband Connectivity

Today, the Connect Everyone Coalition (CEC) applauded the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce for advancing the bipartisan Satellite and Telecommunications (SAT) Streamlining Act. The full Committee vote follows action taken by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation earlier this year to pass the Senate version of the bill and moves the legislation closer to final congressional approval.

The SAT Streamlining Act would modernize the Federal Communications Commission’s satellite-licensing process, establishing clear deadlines for FCC consideration of licensing and market-access applications. The legislation would create review periods for certain renewals and timelines for initial licenses, giving new and expanding satellite systems a more predictable path forward.

“Today’s vote recognizes that outdated licensing rules cannot keep pace with the technology Americans increasingly rely on,” said Richard Cullen, executive director of the Connect Everyone Coalition. “A more timely, predictable licensing system will help bring additional connectivity options to the communities that need them most. We appreciate the Committee’s bipartisan leadership and urge Congress to swiftly pass this bill.”

ABOUT THE SAT STREAMLINING ACT

The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation advanced the Senate version of the SAT Streamlining Act, S. 3639, in February. Companion House legislation, H.R. 8255, was introduced by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie (R-KY) and Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ). After advancing from the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology in early September, H.R. 8255 was approved by the full House Energy and Commerce Committee on September 16.

ABOUT THE CONNECT EVERYONE COALITION

The Connect Everyone Coalition is a broad-based coalition of leaders committed to educating the public and policymakers on the importance of using every tool in our connectivity toolbox to provide fast, affordable broadband access to everyone, everywhere.

The Coalition supports an innovative, tech-neutral approach to expanding broadband access that takes full advantage of new technologies and connectivity options, including advances in LEO satellite broadband. We showcase the transformative power of LEO satellites’ ability to connect anyone, anywhere, and we support updating broadband strategies and modernizing space policy so unserved and underserved communities across our nation and world can fully benefit from this game-changing new option. Learn more about the Connect Everyone Coalition HERE.