NASA Authorization Bill Passes 409-15

Published by Marcos on June 19, 2008 under General

The NASA Authorization Bill,HR 6063, passed the House yesterday by a vote of 409-15. The bill authorizes (but does not appropriate) higher funding for NASA, and spells out the agencies mission as the agency prepares for a new administration in 2009.

Noteworthy in the bill:

  • Budget Authorization 12.8% higher than the President’s request
  • Support for a strong suborbital program including sounding rockets and balloons
  • Addresses the need to reform ITAR, which inhibits international scientific collaboration
  • Recognizes the importance of Decadal surveys and other community-based decision making processes.

The Senate has yet to introduce a NASA authorization bill.