Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Peter Welch (D-VT) Lead Effort to Streamline FCC Processes, Accelerate LEO Satellite Deployment and Expand Broadband Access Nationwide.

In case you missed it, U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Peter Welch (D-Vermont) this month introduced the bipartisan Satellite and Telecommunications (SAT) Streamlining Act, an important step toward modernizing federal satellite licensing, cutting regulatory red tape and reducing hurdles to make next-generation connectivity more accessible for all Americans.

The legislation proposes streamlining the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) process for licensing new satellite systems, including low Earth orbit (LEO) and other innovative technologies, while replacing duplicative reviews with a predictable timeline to accelerate deployment, support rural connectivity and bolster U.S. leadership in the commercial space economy.

Several Connect Everyone Coalition members have called attention to the SAT Streamlining Act since its introduction:

Current FCC rules, often mired in years-long delays and overlapping agency hurdles, stifle the rapid pace of space innovation. By clearing these bottlenecks, the SAT Streamlining Act not only provides regulatory certainty for operators but also supports job creation in manufacturing, launch services and ground infrastructure, while advancing broadband equity.

LEO satellites are already proving transformative, delivering high-speed internet to underserved areas where fiber and fixed wireless fall short, ensuring reliable connectivity for education, telehealth, economic opportunity and more. The SAT Streamlining Act would accelerate this progress.

Read the full legislation HERE.

Read CEC’s statement on the introduction of the SAT Streamlining Act HERE.

Read more about how LEO satellites are working to provide universal connectivity HERE.