Launch Communications Act
What changed between versions
The authorization streamlining provision was split into two separate items: one covering Federal space launch sites (for both launches and reentries) and a new item covering private space launch sites. Notably, reentries are now tied to 'Federal space launch sites' rather than the original broader term 'reentry sites.'
The limitation paragraph that restricted access to the specified frequencies solely to commercial space launches and reentries was removed, potentially allowing other uses of those frequencies.
The provision allowing the Commission to identify additional frequencies (in coordination with the Assistant Secretary) as necessary for commercial space launches and reentries was removed, fixing the frequency bands at only those explicitly listed in the bill.
The reference to the Secretary of Defense as a potential agency the Assistant Secretary may coordinate with was removed from the improved coordination provision.
A new rule of construction was added stating that nothing in the section authorizes or requires elimination, limitation, amendment, or other effect on special temporary authority under 47 CFR 1.931.
The frequency ranges were reformatted from a numbered list with en-dash notation (e.g., 2025-2110 MHz) to plain prose (e.g., 'between 2025 and 2110 megahertz').
