Senate committee advances FCC satellite licensing bill after changes
Summary
The Senate Commerce Committee has advanced a bill aimed at streamlining satellite licensing, following revisions to the automatic approval process for applications. This move is expected to enhance efficiency in the satellite industry.
Key Insights
What does 'deemed granted' mean in the context of FCC satellite licensing?
Deemed granted refers to a process where satellite license applications are automatically approved if the FCC does not act within a specified timeframe, shifting from a 'default to no' to a 'default to yes' framework for straightforward requests, with amendments adding safeguards like constellation size thresholds and spectrum exclusions.
What changes were made to address concerns about automatic satellite approvals?
Amendments require the FCC to establish rules within two years for eligible applications, exclude spectrum reserved for federal use or shared bands, consider constellation size thresholds (e.g., responding to large Starlink proposals), allow extensions for safety or interference issues, provide a 15-business-day cure period, and permit court challenges.