April 2026 Open Commission Meeting

Why It Matters

Modernizing satellite spectrum unlocks massive capacity gains and rural connectivity, while stricter KYC rules aim to curb costly robocalls and protect national security.

Key Takeaways

• FCC modernizes satellite spectrum rules, replacing outdated EPFD limits.
• New framework enables up to eight‑fold increase in satellite broadband capacity.
• Commissioners emphasize good‑faith coordination and U.S. leadership in global standards.
• FCC proposes stricter Know‑Your‑Customer rules to curb illegal robocalls.
• Enhanced KYC aims to protect consumers and bolster national security.

Summary

The FCC’s April 2026 Open Commission Meeting addressed six agenda items, most notably a Report and Order to modernize spectrum sharing for geostationary and non‑geostationary satellite broadband, and a further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to tighten Know‑Your‑Customer (KYC) requirements aimed at stopping illegal robocalls.

The satellite proposal replaces the decades‑old Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limits with performance‑based protection criteria across the 10.7‑12.7 GHz, 17.3‑18.6 GHz and 19.7‑22 GHz bands. The FCC estimates the change could boost satellite broadband capacity by up to eight times, generating billions of dollars in economic benefit. The KYC notice would require carriers to collect and verify detailed customer identification, impose higher forfeiture penalties, and explore whether stricter KYC can deter criminal misuse of the network.

Commissioner Anna Gomez highlighted the “good‑faith negotiation” principle as the cornerstone of the new sharing framework, while Commissioner Olivia Trusty linked the rule change to closing the digital divide and reinforcing U.S. space leadership. Chairman Brendan Carr stressed that the updates will “supercharge competition” among satellite, wireless and cable providers, delivering faster service to underserved communities.

If adopted, the spectrum reforms position the United States to lead future ITU discussions and accelerate commercial low‑Earth‑orbit deployments, while the KYC enhancements promise stronger consumer protection and a new tool for national‑security agencies. Carriers, however, will face compliance costs and operational adjustments as they integrate the expanded verification processes.

Original Description

The FCC conducted an Open Meeting on the subjects listed below:

* Modernizing Spectrum Sharing for Satellite Broadband

* Combatting Robocalls Through Enhanced Know-Your-Customer Requirements

* Ensuring Integrity and Security in Electronic Device Testing

* Protecting Against National Security Threats in Domestic

Telecommunications Service

* Establishing a New E-Rate Competitive Bidding Portal

* Amending the Audible Crawl Rule