FCC adopts NEPA reforms to streamline space and wireless reviews

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has adopted an order to overhaul its environmental review processes under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The reform specifically excludes actions related to outer space from being classified as ‘major federal actions’ under the statute.

Business advocacy groups, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Americans for Tax Reform, have expressed support for the decision. The U.S. Chamber of Commerce noted that space-based operations fall outside the scope of NEPA review, arguing that extending such obligations would create unnecessary delays for the satellite industry. The group emphasized that existing oversight regarding orbital debris mitigation and RF exposure remains in place.

Americans for Tax Reform highlighted that the new regime is expected to eliminate NEPA reviews for more than 14,800 wireless deployments annually, such as cell towers, and will expedite the buildout of space-based communications by exempting satellite launch approvals from the lengthy review process.