Austin News

U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Ted Cruz and Senator Jacky Rosen have introduced the Satellite and Telecommunications Streamlining Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at providing regulatory predictability to the American satellite industry. The legislation seeks to address the challenges faced by innovative companies in deploying new satellite technologies and expanding broadband access across the country.

Sen. Cruz emphasized the importance of the legislation, stating, “In the rapidly changing space and satellite marketplace, more rocket launches and satellites are being deployed than ever before. Sadly, innovative companies that seek to expand broadband access to Americans face a regulatory process that is outdated leading to massive delays as they seek to deploy new satellite technologies.” He expressed his satisfaction in collaborating with Sen. Rosen to ensure that FCC's administrative processes do not hinder the deployment of commercial satellite applications that could benefit underserved communities.

Sen. Rosen highlighted the significance of satellite technology in connecting rural communities to high-speed internet and addressing critical needs such as weather forecasting and disaster response. She stated, “Satellite technology is a critical component for connecting rural communities to high-speed internet, but bureaucratic roadblocks have hindered companies from innovating and advancing satellite technology.” The Senator expressed her pride in introducing bipartisan legislation that aims to streamline procedures and facilitate faster internet connectivity for Nevadans.

The Satellite and Telecommunications Streamlining Act includes provisions such as establishing shot clocks for FCC to process and approve licensing applications, creating rules to streamline procedures for granting initial licenses, renewals, and modifications for satellite orbits, and updating rules for interference protection and spectrum sharing every two years. The bill aims to enhance predictability and transparency in the satellite industry, boost broadband access in underserved areas, and ensure the competitiveness of the United States in the evolving satellite industry landscape.

The Senate version of the bill, a companion to H.R. 1338, includes modifications related to orbital debris, spectrum sharing, and technical edits. The bipartisan effort led by Sens. Cruz and Rosen, along with their counterparts in the House, demonstrates a commitment to unleashing the potential of the American satellite industry and overcoming regulatory barriers to innovation.