U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont) have introduced the Satellite and Telecommunications Streamlining Act, a bipartisan bill designed to modernize the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) application process for satellites. The legislation seeks to address regulatory delays that have affected investment in the U.S. commercial satellite sector.
The proposed act would set a one-year deadline for the FCC to decide on license applications, aiming to reduce delays caused by an increase in submitted applications and outdated regulations. It also standardizes licensing terms for foreign satellite systems operating in the United States by capping licenses at 15 years, aligning with terms already applied to domestic companies. These measures are intended to encourage commercial satellite operators to maintain their operations within the United States rather than move them abroad where processes may be less restrictive.
Senator Cruz stated: “We have more rocket launches and satellite deployments today than ever before. However, innovative companies that want to expand access to high-speed Internet for Americans face an outdated regulatory process, leading to massive delays in the deployment of new satellite technologies. I am pleased to join with Senator Welch in reintroducing this legislation and create a clear, standardized FCC review process to prevent unnecessary delays, keep commercial satellite operators under the U.S. flag, and accelerate high-speed internet deployment to unserved communities. America must lead the way on satellite deployment in space.”
Senator Welch added: “Unlocking the full potential of America’s satellite industry is a major part of connecting more rural communities to high-speed internet. That’s why it’s crucial to reduce red tape that hinders the development of new satellite technology. I’m proud to join Chair Cruz on this bipartisan legislation to help more rural communities from Vermont to Texas access high-speed internet.”
The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee serves as a standing committee within the U.S. Senate focused on issues related to commerce, science, and transportation policy through hearings and subcommittees composed of members from both parties (official website). The committee is led by a chairman—currently Senator Cruz—and is responsible for reviewing national legislative matters involving these sectors during congressional sessions (official website).
