H.R. 1154: Space Infrastructure Act

This bill, titled the Space Infrastructure Act, aims to establish space systems, services, and technology as a critical infrastructure sector. The main actions outlined in the bill include:

Designation as Critical Infrastructure

Within 30 days of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of Homeland Security is required to officially designate space systems, services, and technology as a critical infrastructure sector.

Guidance Issuance

Following this designation, the Secretary must issue guidance within 180 days, in consultation with relevant federal agencies and departments. This guidance should address:

• Defining what constitutes the space infrastructure sector, considering elements like satellites, space vehicles, terrestrial systems, launch infrastructure, and production facilities.
• Selecting a Sector-Specific Agency to oversee this new sector.
• Identifying necessary advisory committees to support this sector, which may include Government Coordinating Councils and Sector Coordinating Councils.

Reporting Requirements

Moreover, within 90 days after the guidance is issued, the Secretary must submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees. This report will cover:

• The implementation status of the issued guidance.
• Any additional information deemed relevant by the Secretary.

Amendments to Existing Laws

The bill also proposes amendments to the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to incorporate the designation of space systems, services, and technology into the existing framework of critical infrastructure.

Definitions

The bill defines key terms, including:

• Appropriate Congressional Committees: These include the House Committee on Homeland Security and the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
• Critical Infrastructure: Defined by existing law as vital systems and assets that, if disrupted, would have a significant impact on national security, economic security, public health, or safety.
• Sector-Specific Agency: The agency tasked with overseeing a critical infrastructure sector.
• Secretary: Refers to the Secretary of Homeland Security.

Implementation Timeline

The bill establishes a clear timeline for these actions, ensuring that there is a structured approach towards integrating space-related systems into national infrastructure security considerations.

Relevant Companies

• NOK (Nokia Corporation) - May be impacted through satellite communications and technology integration into critical infrastructure.
• GOOGL (Alphabet Inc.) - Could see implications for its satellite and geospatial services as part of critical infrastructure support.
• TSLA (Tesla, Inc.) - Potential implications if Tesla's satellite and communication technologies are involved in designated infrastructure.