The Federal Communications Commission (FCC or Commission) has released an Order that modernizes the procedures and rules governing direct broadcast satellite (DBS) service. DBS is commonly used to deliver satellite TV service. The Commission’s new rules for DBS service will: (1) consider new applications on a “first-come, first-served” basis; (2) apply new milestone and bond requirements; (3) extend license terms for non-broadcast DBS space stations from 10 to 15 years; and (4) end the current “freeze” on license applications.
