ORBITS Act of 2024 Orbital Sustainability Act of 2024
Impact
Should the bill be enacted, it would prioritize the identification and remediation of hazardous orbital debris by mandating that relevant federal agencies, including NASA, publish a list of debris that can be targeted for remediation. Moreover, the bill promotes international collaboration, urging the U.S. to lead global efforts to encourage other spacefaring nations to mitigate their own orbital debris, thereby globalizing the responsibility for space sustainability. The bill allocates $150 million for the implementation of these initiatives over a five-year period.
Summary
House Bill 8787, also known as the Orbital Sustainability Act of 2024, aims to address the growing problem of orbital debris, which poses significant risks to both current satellite operations and future space missions. The bill establishes a demonstration program for the active remediation of orbital debris, requiring the development of uniform standards and practices to support a safe and sustainable orbital environment. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining secure access to outer space for scientific research and commercial activities that are critical to the United States.
Contention
Key points of contention surrounding HB8787 could revolve around regulation and funding for debris remediation, as well as the potential for increased governmental involvement in space activities. Some stakeholders may raise concerns about the efficiency and effectiveness of federal programs required to implement the remediation processes proposed by this bill. Additionally, debates may arise on the balance between active remediation efforts and the costs associated with them, given the limited funding allocations over the specified duration.
Innovative Mitigation Partnerships for Asphalt and Concrete Technologies Act or the IMPACT ActThis bill requires the Department of Energy (DOE) to establish a temporary program that supports advanced production of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt.Specifically, the program must support research, development, and commercial application of production processes for low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt that are more cost-effective, durable, or resource-efficient (i.e., advanced production). The program must particularly focus on carbon capture technologies, energy-efficient processes, research involving novel materials, and other specified technologies and innovative processes.DOE must select entities to implement relevant demonstration projects; eligible entities include government, nonprofit, educational, and private sector entities. DOE may terminate these projects if it determines that sufficient amounts of low-emissions cement, concrete, and asphalt that are produced through advanced production are commercially available at reasonable prices.The program terminates seven years after the bill is enacted.