Paul Cook: “H.R. 1654, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act is a fiscally responsible space bill that…”

“H.R. 1654, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act is a fiscally responsible space bill that not only authorizes appropriations for NASA, but also imposes rules and restrictions on the space agency to ensure appropriate spending of federal funds. As a member of the House Committee on Science, and as a member of the Space and Aeronautics Subcommittee, I am very concerned that NASA receives adequate funding. Citizens of the United States benefit economically from the many technologies learned through space exploration. Much of today's technology came from the space program, and much of tomorrow's technology will come from research taking place today. These new technologies will not only make our lives better but also will increase health and medical advances, labor and time saving devices, transportation and improve communication devices. Clearly, the new technologies generated from our space program greatly impact our economic growth and our ability to remain competitive in the world marketplace. Additionally, the bill will set a spending cap on Space Station development thereby forcing our foreign partners to live up to their commitments. Mr. Speaker, it is vital for the U.S. to remain on the cutting edge of scientific discoveries and technological advances, and H.R. 1654 provides the funding to ensure that NASA spearheads both of these efforts. I urge my colleagues to support this Act and safeguard the future of generations to come.”