SPACEPORT Act
- Sponsor
- Sen. Hickenlooper, John W. [D-CO]
- Committees
- Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 18, 2025
Bottom line
The SPACEPORT Act aims to bolster U.S. space leadership and resilience by increasing federal investment and broadening the scope of support for critical space transportation infrastructure projects across the nation.
What it actually does
This bill, known as the SPACEPORT Act, amends Chapter 511 of title 51, U.S. Code, to significantly modify the Space Transportation Infrastructure Modernization Grants program. It expands the definition of eligible 'public agencies' to include airport authorities and tax-supported organizations, increases the maximum federal share for project grants from 50% to 90% (with a waiver option), and broadens the eligibility criteria to encompass civil, national security, and commercial space transportation needs. The bill also mandates regular reports on space transportation demand and capabilities and authorizes $10 million annually for the grant program.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that this bill is a vital investment in the nation's space infrastructure, essential for maintaining U.S. competitiveness and leadership in the rapidly evolving global space economy. They contend that the increased federal cost share will make crucial spaceport projects more financially viable for states and local entities, thereby accelerating the development of resilient and robust space transportation capabilities for civil, national security, and commercial purposes.
Opponents contend
Potential opponents might express concerns about the increased federal financial commitment, arguing that a 90% federal share could lead to less local fiscal responsibility or potentially incentivize less critical projects. Some may also question the extent of federal involvement in what could be perceived as primarily commercial infrastructure development, advocating for a greater private sector role.
The bill is concise and clearly structured, allowing an informed reader to understand its provisions and implications within a short timeframe.
Section 1
Short Title Designation
This section formally designates the Act as the 'Spaceport Project Opportunities for Resilient Transportation Act' or the 'SPACEPORT Act.' This provides a common and recognizable name for the legislation.
Supporters argue
Designating a short title is standard legislative practice that enhances clarity and ease of reference for the bill's contents and purpose.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against the designation of a short title, as it is a procedural element of legislative drafting.
Tradeoffs
None, this is a standard procedural provision.
Section 2(a), amending 51101(5)
Expanded Definition of 'Public Agency'
This provision broadens the definition of a 'public agency' eligible for space transportation infrastructure modernization grants. It now explicitly includes 'an airport authority, or a tax-supported organization' in addition to existing categories like states and political subdivisions. This change allows a wider array of entities to apply for and receive federal funding for spaceport development.
Section 2(b), amending 51102(b)
Increased Federal Share for Project Grants
This section significantly modifies the federal funding contribution for space transportation infrastructure grants. It raises the maximum federal share for a project from a typical 50% to 90% of the total project cost. Additionally, it grants the Secretary of Transportation the authority to waive this 90% limitation if deemed to be in the national interest, allowing for potentially full federal funding in exceptional cases.
Section 2(c), amending 51103(b)
Broadened Eligibility Criteria and Interagency Consultation
This section updates the criteria for evaluating and selecting grant projects. It expands the focus from 'United States Government's space transportation needs' to include 'civil, national security, and commercial space transportation needs of the United States.' It also requires the Secretary of Transportation to develop specific evaluation criteria and to consult with the Secretaries of Defense and Commerce, the NASA Administrator, and other agencies on certain aspects of project eligibility and impact, particularly concerning national security and government launch ranges.
Section 2(d)
Quadrennial Report on Space Transportation Capabilities
This section mandates the Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with other key federal agencies (DOD, NASA, Commerce), to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within two years of the Act's enactment, and then every four years thereafter. The report must evaluate demand for space transportation services, recommend policies for robust capabilities, examine long-term funding options, and assess international space transportation capabilities to ensure U.S. competitiveness.
Section 2(e), amending 51105
Annual Authorization of Appropriations
This section authorizes the appropriation of 'not more than $10,000,000' to the Secretary of Transportation for each fiscal year. These funds are specifically designated to make grants under Chapter 511 of title 51, United States Code, for space transportation infrastructure modernization projects.