Congress Starts To Seek Policy Compromises

Hutchison Introduces Bill to Close Gap in U.S. Spaceflight
“Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today introduced legislation to close the gap in U.S. human space flight that will occur if the space shuttle is retired before the next generation of space vehicle is developed. Senator Hutchison’s bill would allow the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to extend the shuttle’s service as work continues on the next generation of American space vehicle. Companion legislation is expected to be introduced in the House of Representatives next week by Reps. Suzanne Kosmas (D-Florida) and Bill Posey (R-Florida).”
Kosmas Presses Budget Committee to Continue Shuttle Funding
“There is only one existing vehicle with the capability to deliver certain pieces of hardware that will enable a longer lifespan of the ISS, maintain continued U.S. independent access to space, and ensure the station’s research mission is maximized to fullest extent possible – and that is the Space Shuttle,” Congresswoman Kosmas said to the committee. “I believe that as we debate long-term future of our human space program, it is prudent to take steps to ensure the Space Shuttles can continue to operate in order to fully support and service the ISS.”
– Shuttle flights would continue under new proposal, Orlando Sentinel
– Reprieve Sought for Space Shuttles, NY Times