Springfield Standard

Washington, Mar 25 2024 - Senator Eric Schmitt and Senator Kyrsten Sinema have introduced the Commercial Standards Paramount to Accelerating Cosmic Exploration (SPACE) Leadership Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at extending the Federal Aviation Administration's learning period for the commercial space industry. The bill has garnered support from key industry players including the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, Virgin Galactic, Blue Origin, and SpaceX.

Senator Schmitt emphasized the collaborative nature of the bill, stating, "Greatness is achieved through good faith and collaboration, which is exactly what the Commercial SPACE Leadership Act aims to accomplish." He highlighted the importance of allowing private companies to drive future regulations in the commercial human space flight sector.

Senator Sinema echoed the sentiment, stating, "Our bipartisan legislation enhances commercial space travel by increasing safety and ensuring America’s continued leadership in space innovation and exploration."

Karina Drees, President of the Commercial Spaceflight Federation, commended the Senators for their leadership in introducing the legislation, stating, "The commercial space industry is eager to work with its government partners in Congress and the executive branch to chart a productive path forward that continues to promote human spaceflight innovation and safety."

Virgin Galactic, Blue Origin, and SpaceX also expressed their support for the bill, citing its potential to promote safety and growth in the commercial human spaceflight industry.

The Commercial SPACE Leadership Act aims to give the industry a pivotal role in shaping future regulations while ensuring accountability measures are in place to prevent stifling innovation. The bill extends the learning period for five years, allowing industry and government collaboration to drive the development of voluntary consensus standards and regulations.

As the commercial space sector continues to evolve and expand, the Commercial SPACE Leadership Act represents a crucial step towards maintaining America's leadership in space exploration and innovation.