S. 2888: Spaceport Project Opportunities for Resilient Transportation Act

This bill, titled the **Spaceport Project Opportunities for Resilient Transportation Act**, aims to modify existing laws related to space transportation infrastructure to support modernization efforts. The key components of the bill are as follows:

Definitions and Scope

The bill clarifies definitions related to "public agency," specifying that it includes state agencies, political subdivisions, airport authorities, and other tax-supported organizations. This broadens the scope of entities eligible to receive grants under this legislation.

Modification of Grant Authority

The legislation revises the conditions under which grants can be awarded, stating that:

• The Secretary of Transportation can provide project grants covering up to 90% of total project costs, although this limit can be waived if deemed in the national interest.

Eligibility Criteria Changes

It updates the criteria used to evaluate grant applications, focusing on:

• The civil, national security, and commercial space transportation needs of the United States, rather than just government space transportation needs.
• Enhancements in support for projects impacting launch and re-entry operations at government launch ranges.
• The development of specific criteria for selecting projects, based on consultations with relevant government agencies.

Reporting Requirements

The bill requires the Secretary of Transportation to submit a report to Congress within two years of enactment. This report must cover:

• The demand for space transportation services, both domestically and internationally.
• Recommendations for legislation and policies to enhance space transportation capabilities.
• An examination of long-term funding options for space infrastructure projects.
• An assessment of international competition in space transportation and recommendations for maintaining U.S. competitiveness.

Subsequent updates to this report are required every four years to remain current with industry developments.

Authorization of Appropriations

The bill allows for annual appropriations of up to $10 million for grants under the space transportation infrastructure program, ensuring financial support for these projects.

Technical Amendments

Lastly, the bill includes technical amendments to update the chapter heading of existing law to reflect its focus on “Space Transportation Infrastructure Modernization Grants.”

Relevant Companies

• SPCE - Virgin Galactic: As a company involved in commercial space travel, changes in grant funding and spaceport infrastructure could directly impact their operations and funding opportunities.
• BA - Boeing: With its ventures in space exploration and satellite technology, Boeing may be affected by enhancements in government space transportation capabilities.
• LMT - Lockheed Martin: Engaged in various defense contracts and space technologies, Lockheed Martin could see opportunities and competition evolving from changes in space transportation policies.