House Panel to Mark Up Broadband Strategy, Satellite Licensing Bills
House lawmakers will consider measures to require a national broadband strategy and accelerate FCC approval timelines for satellite licenses
WASHINGTON, Sept. 15, 2026 - The House Energy and Commerce Committee is set to advance two major telecommunications bills this week as Chairman Rep. Brett Guthrie, R-Ky., continues pushing a communications agenda during the final months of the 119th Congress.
Guthrie announced that the full committee will hold a Sept. 16 markup of 16 bills, including legislation aimed at creating a national broadband strategy and accelerating the federal approval process for satellite networks.
Among the highest-profile measures is H.R. 2805, the PLAN for Broadband Act, which would direct National Telecommunications and Information Administration Administrator Arielle Roth to develop a comprehensive national broadband strategy and a detailed execution plan for closing the digital divide. The proposal seeks to coordinate federal broadband efforts across agencies and establish a long-term framework for expanding access and adoption.
The committee will also consider H.R. 8255, the Satellite and Telecommunications (SAT) Streamlining Act, which would impose statutory deadlines on the Federal Communications Commission's satellite licensing process. Under the bill, the FCC would be required to issue decisions on standard satellite license applications within 180 days, while more complex applications would have to be resolved within one year.
The committee said the Sept. 16 markup will consider 16 bills designed to "enhance American technological development and strengthen communications networks," including the PLAN for Broadband Act and the SAT Streamlining Act.
If approved by the committee, both bills would advance for consideration by the full House.
