S.434 - Space Commerce Advisory Committee Act (119th Congress)
Summary
The Space Commerce Advisory Committee Act (S.434) aims to establish a committee to advise the Secretary of Commerce and Congress on matters related to commercial space activities. The committee would consist of 15 members with expertise in various fields related to the space industry. It is designed to promote a robust and innovative commercial space sector.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to increased collaboration between the government and the commercial space sector. This collaboration could foster innovation and address challenges related to international obligations, export controls, and radio frequency spectrum access. The committee is set to terminate 10 years after its establishment.
Potential Benefits
- Provides a platform for the commercial space sector to voice concerns and recommendations to the government.
- Facilitates the development of best practices for responsible space activities, including avoiding contamination of celestial bodies.
- Encourages innovation and investment in the commercial space sector.
- Addresses challenges related to international obligations and export controls.
- Promotes a more predictable and reliable regulatory environment for commercial space activities.
Potential Disadvantages
- The committee's advice is non-binding, so there is no guarantee that its recommendations will be implemented.
- The committee's focus on commercial interests may overshadow other important considerations, such as environmental protection and scientific research.
- The establishment and operation of the committee will incur costs to taxpayers.
- The committee's membership may not be fully representative of all stakeholders in the space sector.
- The 10-year termination clause may limit the committee's long-term impact.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to be constitutionally sound. Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce, which extends to commercial activities in space. The establishment of an advisory committee falls within the scope of Congress's power to gather information and make informed decisions related to commerce. The Act does not appear to infringe on any individual rights or liberties protected by the Constitution or its amendments.
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).