SPACEPORT Act

This legislation, titled the SPACEPORT Act , significantly modifies the authority for space transportation infrastructure modernization grants under chapter 511 of title 51, United States Code. It redefines "public agency" to broaden eligibility and establishes a grant limitation, stipulating that federal funds cannot exceed 90 percent of a project's total cost, though this can be waived if deemed in the national interest . Furthermore, the bill updates eligibility criteria for projects, requiring consideration of the civil, national security, and commercial space transportation needs of the United States, and mandates consultation with key federal agencies like the Department of Defense and NASA during project evaluation. The Act also requires the Secretary of Transportation to submit a comprehensive report to Congress within two years, evaluating space transportation demand, recommending policy changes for robust capabilities, and assessing international competitiveness. This report must be updated periodically to ensure ongoing relevance. Finally, the bill authorizes an annual appropriation of $10,000,000 for the Secretary of Transportation to make these crucial space transportation infrastructure modernization grants.