Louisiana House Bill HR77

Louisiana 2017 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/1/17
• Passed: 5/2/17

Caption

Designates Thursday, May 4, 2017, as NASA Day at the state capitol and commends NASA

Impact

The resolution underscores Louisiana's strong ties with NASA and emphasizes the state's commitment to fostering an aerospace sector that is vital for both economic development and workforce training. It also acknowledges NASA's initiatives like the Small Business Innovation Research program, which has invested significantly in local businesses, thereby stimulating local technological innovations and providing numerous social and economic benefits to Louisiana.

Summary

House Resolution 77, introduced by Representative Garofalo, designates Thursday, May 4, 2017, as NASA Day at the state capitol to commend NASA for its significant contributions to the state of Louisiana and the nation. The resolution highlights the important roles that the Marshall Space Flight Center and Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans have played in the U.S. space program, particularly during the Apollo program and the development of the Space Shuttle. The resolution aims to honor the ongoing collaboration between NASA and the state, especially in developing a skilled aerospace workforce and promoting advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HR 77 is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a shared pride in the state’s contributions to the aerospace industry. The resolution celebrates not only the historical significance of NASA's projects but also their future potential to inspire new generations in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The initiative is seen as a way to galvanize support for ongoing and future space-related endeavors within the state.

Contention

While the resolution itself is largely celebratory and non-controversial, notable points of contention may arise surrounding federal funding allocations and the effectiveness of NASA's partnerships with local industries. Critics might question whether the benefits from such collaborations are equitably distributed among all communities, especially minority and disadvantaged groups. Overall, however, the resolution serves as a unifying gesture that aligns various stakeholders in recognizing the essential role of NASA in Louisiana’s aerospace landscape.