AI-assisted analysis based on the official CRS summary. Source version: Feb 27, 2026. Analysis updated: Sep 17, 2026.
01 — The Text
What.
- The FCC is prohibited from granting satellite licenses to foreign entities of concern and their affiliates
- The FCC is prohibited from authorizing earth stations (ground stations) for foreign entities of concern and their affiliates
- The FCC is prohibited from granting U.S. market access to foreign-licensed satellites operated by foreign entities of concern and their affiliates
- Covered entities are those that produce or provide communications equipment or services deemed to pose unacceptable national security risk
- The FCC maintains a list of covered equipment and services; specific providers mentioned include Huawei Technologies Company and ZTE Corporation
02 — The Stakes
So what?
- Foreign entities on the FCC's Covered List cannot obtain U.S. satellite operating licenses or earth station authorizations
- Foreign-licensed satellites from covered entities cannot access the U.S. market for communications with U.S.-licensed earth stations
- The official summary does not document specific economic, operational, or other effects of these restrictions
- The summary does not specify implementation timelines or transition periods
03 — The Path
Now what?
- Introduced in Senate and referred to Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation (June 5, 2025)
- Committee ordered favorable report with substitute amendment (April 14, 2026)
- Committee reported bill with substitute amendment and title amendment; report No. 119-138 filed (September 14, 2026)
- Bill placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders, Calendar No. 557 (September 14, 2026)
Legislative History
Actions.
- Sep 14, 2026 — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 557.
- Sep 14, 2026 — Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Cruz with an amendment in the nature of a substitute and an amendment to the title. With written report No. 119-138.
- Apr 14, 2026 — Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
- Jun 5, 2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
- Jun 5, 2025 — Introduced in Senate