Space Exploration Research Act

Full Title:
Space Exploration Research Act

Summary#

This act lets the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration lease real property under the agency's control for up to 99 years. Leases can go to states, state agencies, nonprofit education or scientific organizations (501(c)(3)), and institutions of higher education. The leased property may be used to build and operate facilities for aeronautical and space research; education and workforce training for space careers; transfer of space and aeronautical technology between public and private sectors; scientific, engineering, medical, or academic activities; and other space-related activities. The Administrator can renew leases, delegate these authorities to agency staff, and enter agreements to lease back property or provide contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and administrative, maintenance, or instructional support. Support is allowed with or without reimbursement and is subject to the availability of appropriations. The authority applies regardless of which existing lease authority is used and supersedes certain cited provisions of federal code.

What it means for you#

  • Eligible recipients include the State where the property is located, state subdivisions or agencies, 501(c)(3) educational or scientific nonprofits, and institutions of higher education.
  • Recipients may build and operate facilities for research, education, technology transfer, and related space activities on NASA-controlled property for up to 99 years.
  • NASA may provide operational support, enter into contracts or grants, and lease back property under agreements, subject to available funding.
  • The NASA Administrator may delegate these leasing and support authorities to subordinate agency staff.

Expenses#

The bill states that NASA may provide administrative, maintenance, instructional, and other support "subject to the availability of appropriations." No publicly available information on estimated costs, budgetary effects, or required appropriations is provided in the text or metadata.

Proponents' View#

No publicly available information.

Opponents' View#

No publicly available information.