Representatives August Pfluger (TX-11) and George Whitesides (CA-27) have introduced new legislation aimed at modernizing regulations for commercial space launches. The LAUNCH Act seeks to streamline regulatory processes in order to keep the United States competitive in space exploration as other countries, such as China, increase their efforts in this area.
Rep. Pfluger stated, “President Reagan once described space as a ‘new frontier’, noting that our willingness to explore it ‘will reflect whether America’s men and women today have the same bold vision, courage, and indomitable spirit that made us a great nation.’ He was right. Space exploration and dominance are vital to America’s long-term strength and security. As adversaries like China seek to weaponize and exploit the space domain and the emerging technologies that come from it, we must implement long-overdue regulatory reforms that keep the United States at the forefront. My bill delivers on that mission by modernizing current regulations to support innovation at critical spaceports nationwide, including Midland Spaceport, which I am extremely proud to represent.”
Rep. Whitesides added, “As someone who has had the privilege of leading both NASA and a commercial space company, I’ve seen firsthand how outdated and duplicative regulations can slow down American innovation. The LAUNCH Act will cut red tape, improve coordination across agencies, and make it easier for U.S. companies in my district and across the country to compete and lead in the global space economy. By streamlining these processes, we’re ensuring that America remains at the forefront of aerospace discovery and opportunity.”
The proposed legislation would require the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to simplify its application of regulations for commercial launches by removing redundant steps and considering industry input. It would also continue support for an Aerospace Rulemaking Committee involving launch providers; streamline licensing of private remote sensing systems via the Commercial Remote Sensing Regulatory Affairs office within the Department of Commerce; provide assistance for applicants navigating licensing; elevate oversight of commercial space transportation within the Department of Transportation; and mandate reporting on flight safety.
Dave Cavossa, President of the Commercial Space Federation (CSF), voiced his support: “The Commercial Space Federation (CSF) applauds the introduction of the LAUNCH Act by Congressman Pfluger and Congressman Whitesides. Streamlining regulations for commercial space launch and reentry and commercial remote sensing will ensure that red tape doesn’t stand in the way of national priorities like returning to the Moon and winning the next space race.”
Companion legislation has already been introduced in the Senate by Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ).
August Pfluger is currently serving in Congress representing Texas’ 11th district since 2021 after replacing Mike Conaway. In 2020 he won his seat with nearly 80% of votes against Jon Mark Hogg.
The full text of this legislation is available online.
