# The Secure Space Act of 2022

This bill prevents certain companies from getting permission to operate satellite internet systems in the United States. Specifically, it blocks the Federal Communications Commission (the agency that oversees communications) from approving licenses for low-orbit satellite systems if the company that would control them makes or sells certain types of communications equipment that the government considers risky to national security.

The bill targets what's called "covered communications equipment or services"—basically technology that the government has already identified as potentially problematic for security reasons. If a company produces this kind of equipment, they can't also get a license to run a satellite internet network in America. The same rule applies to any company that's affiliated with or owned by such a manufacturer. For example, if a company makes risky networking equipment and is owned by a larger parent company, that parent company also couldn't get a satellite license.

The practical effect is that this creates a separation between companies that make certain communications gear and companies that operate satellite internet services. The government's reasoning is that if one company controlled both the equipment and the satellite network, it could potentially create security vulnerabilities. By keeping these businesses separate, regulators aim to reduce the risk that someone could exploit a satellite system to spy on or disrupt American communications. This applies to any new satellite licenses granted after the bill becomes law, so existing satellite operators wouldn't be affected unless they try to expand or renew their licenses.

Secure Space Act of 2022

Pallone, Frank

Secure Space Act of 2022 This bill prohibits the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from granting licenses or access to U.S. markets for non-geostationary orbit satellite systems to certain producers or providers of communications equipment or services. Specifically, the FCC may not grant a license or market access to an entity that produces or provides equipment or a service that the FCC determines poses an unacceptable risk to national security or the security and safety of U.S. persons (e.g., Huawei Technologies Company and China Mobile International USA Inc.). Non-geostationary satellite systems are comprised of satellites that do not maintain a stationary position but rather move in relation to the Earth's surface; they may be used to provide broadband and other telecommunications services.