Letter to Chairman Carr on NEPA Modernization
Published
October 01, 2026
October 1, 2026
The Honorable Brendan Carr
Chairman, Federal Communications Commission
Washington, DC 20554
Dear Chairman Carr:
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce ( the Chamber) supports the Federal Communications Commission's (Commission) Report and Order to Modernize the Commission's National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Rules, voted on at the September 30, 2026 Open Meeting.
The business community has long supported an efficient, predictable permitting process —one that reflects the actual scope of the Commission's authority and avoids imposing procedural requirements that delay investment without delivering meaningful benefit. This Order would do exactly that.
The Chamber agrees with the Commission that for several reasons, space-based operations fall outside the scope of NEPA review. The FCC's role in licensing satellite systems is appropriately limited to communications-related functions. Extending NEPA obligations beyond that scope would create unnecessary delays and uncertainty for a rapidly growing industry that is vital to national security, job creation, and economic opportunities for businesses and communities nationwide.
The Chamber notes, importantly, that this Order does not eliminate oversight. Existing requirements governing RF exposure, antenna registration, and orbital debris mitigation remain fully in place. This is a targeted modernization that appropriately furthers the goals of both regulatory efficiency and responsible stewardship.
The Chamber also supports the Commission’s decision to seek additional comments on its National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) framework and on potential revisions to its historic preservation rules aimed at improving efficiency.
The Chamber commends Chairman Carr and the Commission for their leadership in cutting red tape and creating a regulatory environment where American businesses can build, invest, and innovate. We strongly urge adoption of this Order and welcome the opportunity to discuss further at your convenience.
Sincerely,
John Neal
Executive Director, Space Policy
Cyber, Space and National Security Division
U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Letter to Chairman Carr on NEPA Modernization
About the author
John Neal
John Neal serves as the Executive Director for Space Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce where he leads the Chamber’s Space Industry Council.
