To require a study of the risk of space debris impacting a metropolitan area, and for other purposes.
Impact
The findings from this study are intended to influence federal policies regarding space safety and disaster preparedness. By evaluating factors such as the ability to predict incidents, issue warnings, and manage evacuations, the bill aims to enhance public safety measures. The report, which is required to be submitted to various congressional committees within 28 months, could spur legislative actions addressing the necessary resources and strategies for mitigating the risks of space debris.
Summary
House Bill 5529 aims to initiate a comprehensive study on the risks posed by space debris to populous metropolitan areas. The bill mandates that, within six months of its enactment, the Secretary of Commerce, in collaboration with key agencies including FEMA, NASA, and the Department of Defense, conduct an evaluation of potential impacts of manmade objects falling from orbit. This study must assess the probability of such incidents occurring over the next 25 years in areas with populations exceeding one million inhabitants.
Contention
While the bill is largely a preventive measure to safeguard urban populations from potential threats from space debris, it may raise discussions regarding the prioritization of funding and resources for space safety versus other pressing community needs. Proponents argue that understanding and planning for such risks is crucial for ensuring public safety, whereas opponents might contend that resources could be better spent on more immediate issues facing urban areas today.
To require the head of each Executive agency to relocate 30 percent of the employees assigned to the headquarters of the Executive agency to duty stations outside the Washington metropolitan area, and for other purposes.
A bill to require the Administrator of the Small Business Administration to relocate 30 percent of the employees assigned to headquarters to duty stations outside the Washington metropolitan area, and for other purposes.
To provide a per diem allowance for Members of Congress for the costs of lodging, meals, and incidental expenses incurred because of travel to and from the Washington Metropolitan Area in order to cast votes in Congress, and for other purposes.
A bill to require the head of each Executive agency to relocate 30 percent of the employees assigned to the headquarters of the Executive agency to duty stations outside the Washington metropolitan area, and for other purposes.