Chamber Praises Senate for Advancing Spaceport Bill to Scott

A bill that could help draw more space-related companies to Florida has advanced, with the support of the Florida Chamber of Commerce, to Gov. Rick Scott for final approval.

The Senate approved on final reading CS/HB 59, sponsored by Rep. Lake Ray, R-Jacksonville, which is designed to allow Space Florida, an independent special district created to advocate for Floridas space industry, to offer incentives to bring space-related businesses to the state.

Ensuring Florida remain a global leader in spaceflight activity is a top priority for the Florida Chamber, Ryan West, Florida Chamber director of talent and innovation policy, stated in a release.

A vibrant space and aerospace industry are essential for generating re-employment opportunities for displaced shuttle program workers.

The bill also makes Cecil Field in Jacksonville, a nationally licensed spaceport, to be eligible for infrastructure improvements geared toward spaceflight industries.