Media Contact: 
Will Wiquist
will.wiquist@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

CHAIRWOMAN ROSENWORCEL WELCOMES BIPARTISAN SATELLITE LEGISLATION
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WASHINGTON, February 11, 2022—Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel today welcomed the announcement of draft bipartisan legislation by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ) and Ranking Member Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA).  The Chairwoman issued the following statement:

“We have entered a new era in satellite communications.  The small satellite constellations of today and tomorrow are bringing advanced communications services to some of the hardest to connect places in our country.  While the FCC staff has done tremendous work in reviewing applications and simultaneously updating our rules from orbital debris to commercial space launch communications, the truth is that the laws were written to address a different satellite ecosystem.  I welcome this bipartisan and bold effort by Congress to take on these modern challenges to ensure we capitalize on the amazing technological and economic opportunities at hand.

“I thank Chairman Pallone and Ranking Member McMorris Rogers for their leadership and forethought in releasing these draft bills.  The FCC and our many experts stand at the ready to continue to help Congress in this work.  Together, we will ensure that the United States remains the international leader in satellite technology and space-based broadband services to connect everyone, everywhere.”

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Office of the Chairwoman: (202) 418-2400 / @JRosenworcelFCC / www.fcc.gov/jessica-rosenworcel

This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).