Senator Ashley Moody Brings Home Major Victory for Florida’s Space Coast

Jul 11, 2025

Click image above to view SenatorMoody’s remarks

MERRITT ISLAND, Fla.—Senator Ashley Moody today announced herSecure U.S. Leadership in Space Acthas become law at an event on Florida’s Space Coast marking a major legislative win for Floridians and the future of the U.S. in space. The bill, introduced in May, ensures that Florida and the U.S. remain leaders in space exploration and innovation. The space industry has grown exponentially in the last decade, and it has become increasingly clear that spaceports are critical to the strength and security of this nation. TheSecure U.S. Leadership in Space Actsimply levels the playing field by treating spaceportsjust like airports and seaports making spaceport facility bonds tax-exempt.
Senator Ashley Moodysaid, “It is of vital importance both to our national security interests and economicsuccess that the United States remains the leader in the space industry. In this modern-day space race, it is imperative that the U.S. remain ahead of the People’s Republic of China, and this law is a critical step to ensure our spaceprogram has the resources and support it needs. I’ve seen firsthand how public and private entities are coming together on Florida’s Space Coast to make bold advances in innovation. We know the formula that works, and this lawsupercharges it.”
Rob Long, president and CEO, Space Floridasaid, “Thank you to Sen. Ashley Moody for the tremendous work on this issue and for recognizing that spaceports are not just launchpads, they are economic engines and strategic assets. America now officially recognizes that space transportation is on equal footing with other modes of transportation. This is a long-overdue policy change that will bring more private capital investment into the development of space infrastructure, reduce costs and accelerate the growth of a more competitive, resilient, and innovative aerospace economy.”
President and CEO Lynda Weatherman of the EDC of Florida’s Space Coastsaid,“The EDC applauds Senator Ashley Moody’s leadership on this important bipartisan issue to strengthen America’s Spaceports. This forward-looking legislation will unlock critical funding for space as a recognized mode oftransportation; spurring investment in infrastructure to bolster and strengthen America’s leadership.”
P. Barry Butler, Ph.D., President, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical Universitysaid, “It is an honor to recognize the leadership of Senator Moody in advancing the Secure U.S. Leadership in Space Act. This bipartisan bill will strengthen America’sposition in space innovation by fostering public-private partnerships and supporting investment in Florida’s space industry. Thanks to Senator Moody’s efforts, Florida remains at the forefront of space exploration and development,preparing the next generation of explorers who will shape our future beyond the stars.”
Read more aboutthe billhere.
See SenatorMoody’s full remarkshere.
Additionally, earlier this Congress, Senator Moody introduced the Consolidating AerospacePrograms Efficiently (CAPE) at Canaveral Act, known as theCAPE Canaveral Act, directing the relocation of theNational Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) headquarters to Florida’sSpace Coast.
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