U.S. Reps. Ken Calvert (R-CA) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) on Feb. 10 unveiled a bipartisan bill that would designate American space systems, services, and technology as a sector of critical infrastructure and take appropriate measures to protect them.
“As our economy and essential communication systems become increasingly reliant on the support of space-based systems and services, we must act accordingly to increase the safeguards that shield them from any potential threats,” said Rep. Calvert, who sponsored the Space Infrastructure Act, H.R. 1154.
If enacted, H.R. 1154 would direct the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security to issue guidance with respect to space systems, services, and technology as critical infrastructure, according to the Congressional Record bill summary.
Three cosponsors, including Rep. Fitzpatrick and U.S. Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA), joined Rep. Calvert in introducing the bill.
“As we confront an evolving landscape of threats from global adversaries, it is imperative that we adopt a forward-thinking approach to safeguarding our critical infrastructure in space,” Rep. Fitzpatrick said, noting that H.R. 1154 “is a crucial step in ensuring the resilience and security of our nation’s space assets by requiring the Department of Homeland Security to formally designate our space systems and technologies as integral components of our national infrastructure.
“This bipartisan effort,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick, “will strengthen our ability to respond to emerging threats and maintain our leadership in space.”
Rep. Carbajal pointed out that space operations are a critical part of day-to-day life in the United States from communications satellites in orbit to the launch systems that put them there.
“I’m proud to be part of bipartisan legislation that ensures assessments of our nation’s critical sectors reflect the role that space infrastructure has in our homes, our commerce, and our national security,” he added.
The measure has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.