H.R.6131 - Commercial Space Act of 2023

Background and Context:

As commercial space activities expand, the existing oversight framework needs updating to provide transparency, efficiency and a light touch to enable innovation while meeting international obligations. H.R.6131 would establish a certification regime for space objects under Commerce, create data sharing and research entities to improve space situational awareness, and make targeted updates to launch licensing.

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Supporters and Opposition:

The bill is sponsored by Rep. Babin (R-TX-36) and has seven Republican cosponsors: Reps. Lucas (R-OK-3), Posey (R-FL-8), Garcia (R-CA-27), Obernolte (R-CA-23), Tenney (R-NY-24), Webster (R-FL-11), and Franklin (R-FL-18). The sponsorship reflects support from several states with significant space industry presence. While the space industry may welcome the prospect of streamlined oversight, some agencies could be wary of consolidating authorities in the Department of Commerce. Additionally, environmental and safety advocates may closely examine provisions related to orbital debris mitigation and launch licensing.

Legislative Process and Outlook:

H.R.6131 was introduced on 11/1/23 and referred to the House Science, Space and Technology Committee. With Republicans leading the House, the bill may advance this Congress as part of efforts to bolster the commercial space sector. However, some Democrats may seek stronger regulatory provisions, requiring compromise. The Senate perspective remains to be seen but general support exists for updating space policies.

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Impact and Implications:

This comprehensive space legislation would shape the trajectory of the fast-growing commercial space industry. Streamlining oversight aims to lower barriers to entry and promote American leadership. Enhanced space situational awareness could improve safety and sustainability in increasingly congested orbits. At the same time, a light regulatory touch places faith in industry to act responsibly as space activities expand in scale and scope.

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H.R.6131 In the News:

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Grassroots Gameplan: Mobilizing Constituents in Critical Districts

To effectively influence the legislative process surrounding Bill H.R.6131, it's crucial to mobilize constituents in districts that can have the greatest impact on lawmakers' decisions. By targeting specific committees, cosponsors, non-cosponsors, and influential caucuses or coalitions, advocacy groups can focus their efforts and resources for maximum effect.

House Science, Space and Technology Committee

1. Frank Lucas (R-OK-03), Chair
2. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA-18), Ranking Member
3. Brian Babin (R-TX-36), Space Subcommittee Chair, bill sponsor
4. Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Space Subcommittee Ranking Member
5. Randy Weber (R-TX-14)
6. Ed Perlmutter (D-CO-07)

Cosponsors

H.R.6131 currently has 7 Republican cosponsors. Grassroots efforts should thank constituents in these districts:

• Frank D. Lucas (R-OK-3)
• Bill Posey (R-FL-8)
• Mike Garcia (R-CA-27)
• Jay Obernolte (R-CA-23)
• Claudia Tenney (R-NY-24)
• Daniel Webster (R-FL-11)
• C. Scott Franklin (R-FL-18)

Non-cosponsors

Key non-cosponsors to target:

• Michael Waltz (R-FL-06), Commercial Space Caucus Co-Chair
• Ed Perlmutter (D-CO-07), Aerospace Caucus Co-Chair
• Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Space Subcommittee Ranking Member

Influential caucuses

1. House Space and Aeronautics Caucus
   • Brian Babin (R-TX-36), Co-Chair
   • Charlie Crist (D-FL-13), Co-Chair
2. The Congressional Planetary Science Caucus
   • Bill Posey (D-CA-28), Co-Chair
   • Rep. Don Bacon (D-NE-02), Co-Chair

The grassroots gameplan focuses on engaging space industry employees, enthusiasts and impacted communities to demonstrate support for modernizing commercial space policies. Targeting Science Committee members, existing cosponsors, party leaders, space state lawmakers, and relevant caucuses can build momentum for this comprehensive legislation. Personalized letters noting the economic and innovation benefits of a streamlined oversight framework can help generate bipartisan backing to advance H.R.6131.