H.R. 5447: Spaceport Project Opportunities for Resilient Transportation Act

This bill, titled the Spaceport Project Opportunities for Resilient Transportation Act or SPACEPORT Act, aims to amend existing legislation regarding space transportation infrastructure in the United States. Here are the key components of the bill:

1. Definitions and Scope

The bill revises the definition of a public agency to include various governmental entities, such as state agencies and airport authorities, which could apply for federal grants.

2. Grant Authority Modifications

The bill updates the authority for issuing infrastructure modernization grants for space transportation projects.

• Project Grant Limitations: The bill stipulates that the Secretary of Transportation can only grant up to 90% of the total project cost, but this can be waived if deemed necessary for national interest.
• Eligibility Criteria Changes: The criteria for project eligibility are enhanced to include not just government needs, but also civil, national security, and commercial space transportation requirements.
• Consultation Requirement: The bill requires that the Secretary of Transportation consults with other significant governmental agencies when assessing projects.

3. Reporting Requirements

The Secretary of Transportation is tasked with delivering a comprehensive report to Congress within two years of the bill’s enactment, which must evaluate:

• The demand for space transportation services.
• Legislative and regulatory recommendations to support resilient space transportation capabilities.
• Funding options for future space transportation projects.
• Assessment of international capabilities and strategies for competitiveness in space transportation.

Additionally, this report must be updated every four years to ensure ongoing relevance and accuracy.

4. Funding Authorization

The bill authorizes an annual appropriation of up to $10 million specifically for grants related to space transportation infrastructure modernization.

5. Technical Amendments

The title and structure of the relevant section in the United States Code will be updated for clarity, confirming that the focus is on Space Transportation Infrastructure Modernization Grants.

Relevant Companies

• BA - The Boeing Company: As a major player in both commercial and national defense aerospace sectors, Boeing may seek grants to enhance its infrastructure for launching and re-entering space vehicle operations.
• SPCE - Virgin Galactic Holdings, Inc.: A commercial spaceflight company that could benefit from improvements in spaceport infrastructure, making launching operations more efficient.
• LOCK - Lockheed Martin Corporation: Engaged in space and defense, this company may be influenced by changes in transportation and launch infrastructure projects funded by the bill.