Governor Deal Signs Spaceport Bill

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Tuesday, May 9th, 2017

State Representative Jason Spencer (R-Woodbine) announced that House Bill 1 was signed into law by Governor Nathan Deal on Monday, May 8, 2017. This legislation, sponsored by Rep. Spencer, will define procedures for space flight activity in Georgia.

“I’m thankful to Governor Deal for signing this important legislation into law to bring the space flight industry to Georgia and for understanding the impact that this will have on Coastal Georgia and our state as a whole,” said Rep. Spencer. “Georgia is the No. 1 state in the nation for business, and our state’s economic success is greatly attributed to legislation that has incentivized new industries to relocate and thrive within our state. Like many pro-business measures that have spurred job growth and economic development, House Bill 1 will also encourage the expansion of new businesses and create employment opportunities in Georgia, especially in STEM fields. House Bill 1 is a major win for our state, and I was proud to champion this effort to bring the innovative, future-focused space flight industry to Georgia.”

HB 1 defines procedures for spaceflight activity and limits a willing space flight participant’s ability to sue for damages related to space flight activities for which the participant must give informed consent. This bill introduces an industry standard that is used in all other “space friendly” states.