The U.S. House of Representatives on Monday approved a bipartisan bill led by U.S. Rep. Frank Lucas (R-OK) that would reauthorize the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), promote space technology development, and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to human space exploration.
“NASA plays a pivotal role in driving our nation’s science and technology competitiveness,” said Rep. Lucas, chairman of the U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee. “Therefore, we must ensure the agency has the framework needed to navigate the increasingly competitive global space sector.”
House passage of the legislation, he added, “is a much-needed step to ensure we advance as the world’s premier space agency while breaking barriers and pushing the limits of our achievements.”
The NASA Reauthorization Act of 2024, H.R. 8958, which Rep. Lucas sponsored on July 9 with lead cosponsor U.S. Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), advances to the U.S. Senate for action.
“I am eager for this bill to progress through the Senate and be signed into law,” Rep. Lucas said. “It’s been over seven years since we comprehensively reauthorized NASA. We must act swiftly to guarantee success now and for the future.”
If enacted, H.R. 8958 also would emphasize the importance of commercial partnerships and international collaboration in advancing space exploration and scientific research, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Lucas’ staff.
Among several provisions, H.R. 8958 also would support aeronautics research and development by advancing the next generation of aviation technology, and encourage NASA to maintain a balanced scientific portfolio with a steady cadence of missions, the summary says.
“H.R. 8958 is a comprehensive bill that provides NASA with the necessary direction to maintain our U.S. leadership in space and steer with our democratic values,” said Rep. Lucas. “This includes firm commitments to advancing human space exploration, direction for ongoing and future missions, and support for bold scientific research.”
Rep. Lofgren, ranking member of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee, said the bill will continue NASA’s legacy as a leader in innovation and technology. “I thank Chairman Lucas for his work on this bipartisan bill, and I look forward to seeing it make its way to the president’s desk,” she said.