A bipartisan bill aimed at reforming the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) satellite licensing process unexpectedly failed to pass in the US House of Representatives on Tuesday. The legislation, known as the Satellite and Telecommunications Streamlining Act, did not receive enough support to clear the chamber, with a final vote of 250-163-1. The bill, sponsored by Representatives Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-Wash.) and Frank Pallone (D-N.J.), sought to create a new framework for licensing satellites and reforming rules to encourage operators to locate their operations in the US.

The proposed legislation also included clauses pertaining to “space safety and orbital debris,” which contributed to some opposition. Republican lawmakers argued that the bill would grant the FCC too much authority and extend its reach to the design and operation of any space object that carries an FCC-licensed system. They expressed concerns about the FCC assuming regulatory responsibilities that are beyond its areas of expertise. Supporters of the bill, however, argued that it is necessary to keep the US ahead of other nations in the satellite marketplace.

Despite bipartisan sponsorship, the bill failed to pass due to divided opinions along party lines. It remains to be seen whether a revised version of the legislation will be reintroduced in the future to address these concerns and gain the necessary support for approval.

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