Limitations on signatories
National security limitations
The Federal Communications Commission, after a public interest determination, in consultation with the executive branch, may restrict foreign ownership of a United States signatory if the Commission determines that not to do so would constitute a threat to national security.
No signatories required
1
Clarification of privileges and immunities of COMSAT
Generally not immunized
Notwithstanding any other law or executive agreement, COMSAT shall not be entitled to any privileges or immunities under the laws of the United States or any State on the basis of its status as a signatory of INTELSAT or Inmarsat.
Limited immunity
COMSAT or any successor in interest shall not be liable for action taken by it in carrying out the specific, written instruction of the United States issued in connection with its relationships and activities with foreign governments, international entities, and the intergovernmental satellite organizations.
No joint or several liability
If COMSAT is found liable for any action taken in its status as a signatory or a representative of the party to INTELSAT, any such liability shall be limited to the portion of the judgment that corresponds to COMSAT’s percentage of the ownership of INTELSAT at the time the activity began which lead to the liability.
Provisions prospective
Paragraph (1) shall not apply with respect to liability for any action taken by COMSAT before .
Parity of treatment
Notwithstanding any other law or executive agreement, the Commission shall have the authority to impose similar regulatory fees on the United States signatory which it imposes on other entities providing similar services.
Pub. L. 87–624, title VI, § 642Pub. L. 106–180, § 3114 Stat. 55(, as added , , .)
Editorial Notes
References in Text
Section 763c of this titlePub. L. 109–34, § 3119 Stat. 377, referred to in subsec. (a)(2), was amended generally by , , , and no longer relates to specific criteria for Inmarsat privatization.