S. 2351 Reported by committee Science, Technology, Communications

Space Exploration Research Act

A bill to supplement existing lease authorities available to the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to support research, education, and training, and for other purposes.

  1. Introduced
  2. Committee
  3. Passed Senate
  4. Passed House
  5. To President
  6. Became law
Sponsor Sen. Cruz, Ted [R-TX] Introduced July 17, 2025 Cosponsors 5 (2 R, 3 D) Latest action April 13, 2026

Summary

Space Exploration Research Act
This bill explicitly authorizes the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to lease its properties to states and localities, universities, and nonprofit organizations to conduct space research and training. (Under current law, NASA is authorized to lease property to individuals and entities subject to specified conditions.)
Under the bill, NASA may use existing authorities to lease property under its jurisdiction to (1) the state in which the property is located or a subdivision thereof, (2) a nonprofit organization founded for educational or scientific purposes, or (3) an institution of higher education. NASA may also enter into agreements to lease back such property.
Construction and operations on leased property must serve a space-related purpose relevant to NASA’s mission. NASA may provide administrative, instructional, and other appropriate support to lessees.
NASA must report annually to Congress on the relevance, value, and other quantifiable benefits of the lease agreements.

Summary by the Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress.

Congress.gov

Actions

  1. Apr 13, 2026 Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 369.
  2. Apr 13, 2026 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Reported by Senator Cruz with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. With written report No. 119-117.
  3. Jul 30, 2025 Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Ordered to be reported with an amendment in the nature of a substitute favorably.
  4. Jul 17, 2025 Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
  5. Jul 17, 2025 Introduced in Senate

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