H.R. 2458: Secure Space Act of 2025

The Secure Space Act of 2025 would add satellite systems to the U.S. government's broader push to keep potentially dangerous communications technology out of critical networks. In simple terms, if a company makes or provides "covered" communications equipment or services — or is affiliated with one that does — the FCC could not approve that company to operate certain satellite systems in the U.S. market or use key ground stations here.

That matters because the older Secure and Trusted Communications Networks Act focused mainly on telecom equipment in terrestrial networks. This bill closes what lawmakers appear to see as a gap: a company blocked or flagged in traditional communications markets might still try to enter U.S. infrastructure through satellite licenses, market access approvals, or earth station operations. The measure treats satellite communications as part of the same security picture, not a separate lane.

The bill is broad in the kinds of approvals it covers. It applies to geostationary and nongeostationary satellite systems, as well as both individually licensed and blanket-licensed earth stations. It also reaches affiliates, which is important because companies often operate through subsidiaries or related entities. That means the restriction is designed to be harder to evade by shifting ownership or using a connected corporate structure.

Practically, the biggest effect would be on companies with ties to communications equipment or services already designated as covered under existing law, and on any satellite ventures connected to them. The FCC would have one year after enactment to write rules to carry out the law. Since the House has already passed the bill and it has been referred to the Senate Commerce Committee, the next fight is whether the Senate moves it forward and whether lawmakers decide the national security case outweighs concerns about market competition and regulatory reach.