Paves Way For Space Transportation Research & Development Institute

It's a notable victory for efforts to keep the state of Florida at the forefront of cutting edge space technology.

On Thursday, State Representative Dorothy L. Hukill's (R-Port Orange) bill establish a multiuniversity space research and development institute unanimously passed the Florida House of Representatives.

House Bill 69 creates the Space Transportation Research & Development Institute (STRDI). The institute will partner with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), NASA, and other federal agencies in pioneering new space transportation technology and will work closely with academic institutions throughout the state to provide ground-breaking research.

Hukill says as NASA prepares to transition to the next generation of space flight vehicles, House Bill 69 will better position Florida to remain the world leader in new space research and technology.

"With the end of the shuttle program rapidly approaching, this legislation will create and save high-tech jobs in Florida’s space industry," Hukill said. "This legislation will help keep our brightest minds working right here in Florida by providing for innovative research opportunities."

The bill has been cosponsored by 35 other House Members.

FMI: www.dorothyhukill.com/