S.1013 - Consolidating Aerospace Programs Efficiently at Canaveral Act; CAPE Canaveral Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1013, the Consolidating Aerospace Programs Efficiently at Canaveral Act (CAPE Canaveral Act), proposes to transfer the headquarters of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to Brevard County, Florida. The bill mandates this transfer to occur within one year of the Act's enactment. It was introduced in the Senate by Mrs. Moody and Mr. Scott of Florida and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill, if enacted, would be the relocation of NASA headquarters to Brevard County, Florida. This could lead to a shift in resources, personnel, and influence towards that region. The move aims to consolidate aerospace programs, potentially increasing efficiency.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for economic stimulus in Brevard County, Florida, through job creation and increased investment.
- Possible streamlining of aerospace operations by consolidating them in a key location like Cape Canaveral.
- Enhanced collaboration between NASA and private aerospace companies already located in the area.
- Increased focus on space exploration and development due to the symbolic importance of Cape Canaveral.
- Potential for attracting talent and expertise to the region, boosting innovation.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Significant costs associated with relocating a major government agency, including infrastructure and personnel expenses.
- Disruption to NASA operations during the transition period, potentially delaying important projects.
- Potential loss of experienced personnel who may not want to relocate to Florida.
- Possible negative impact on communities currently hosting NASA facilities outside of Florida.
- Concerns about the concentration of power and resources in a single geographic location.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional powers of Congress, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to "make all Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying into Execution the foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vested by this Constitution in the Government of the United States, or in any Department or Officer thereof." The establishment and management of NASA fall under these implied powers. However, the bill's impact on interstate commerce and equal protection could be subject to scrutiny.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).