As the race for global space-based connectivity accelerates, the FCC is poised to ease existing regulatory barriers standing between U.S. innovation and the next generation of satellite services. On July 17, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) unveiled a draft of its Second Report and Order (“Proposed Order”) aimed at modernizing and streamlining the licensing process for satellite and earth stations. This proposed action—set for a Commission vote on August 7, 2025—is especially focused on unlocking Ground-Station-as-a-Service (GSaaS) models. It reflects the FCC’s commitment to fostering innovation and maintaining U.S. leadership in the rapidly evolving space economy.