Rep. Kennedy Introduces Legislation to Power the Future of American Space Dominance

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Mike Kennedy (UT-03) introduced the Powering the Future of American Space Dominance Act to help advance American space exploration through the development of nuclear power and propulsion technologies. Congressman Tim Moore (NC-04) is an original co-sponsor.

NASA's long-term plans for the Moon and Mars depend on power systems. Advanced nuclear is a clear answer, delivering the constant, resilient power needed to keep astronauts and mission-critical equipment operating in the harsh conditions of deep space. It is the same class of compact, advanced reactor technology that Utah is proving out today, including the testing underway in Kennedy's own district.

The Powering the Future of American Space Dominance Act establishes a framework to develop advanced lunar power systems, nuclear reactors and other technologies critical to America's Moon-to-Mars objectives. Its overarching goal is to ensure the United States develops the reliable power and propulsion systems necessary for astronauts to safely expand humanity's presence deeper into space.

"Utah is already proving that advanced nuclear power works. To take this technology into deep space, we need a sustained national commitment and seamless coordination between government and industry," said Congressman Mike Kennedy. "I fully support NASA's missions and I believe Utah is ready to lead the nation in both the power and the propulsion that the future of space exploration demands."

"The race to lead the next generation of space exploration is already underway, and the United States cannot afford to fall behind," said Congressman Tim Moore . "Reliable nuclear power will be essential to sustaining operations on the Moon, reaching Mars, and maintaining America's leadership in space. This legislation helps ensure our nation is prepared for the challenges of deep space exploration and supports the technologies needed to get us there."

The legislation establishes a framework for NASA to partner with commercial providers in the development of nuclear space technologies critical to the nation's Moon-to-Mars objectives. These partnerships will support the creation of advanced lunar power systems, nuclear reactors and other infrastructure needed to sustain long-term space missions.

Congressman Kennedy has previously supported legislation designed to strengthen accountability and oversight between Congress and NASA. Building on those efforts, this legislation advances NASA's development and use of nuclear propulsion and power systems for deep space exploration while establishing clear mechanisms for transparency and congressional oversight.

"Contrary to what you may hear in the media, there are practical solutions coming out of Congress," said Congressman Mike Kennedy. "When the political will exists to collaborate across party lines toward a common goal, this body works. One of my goals in Congress is to find the members willing to get these practical initiatives moving forward, and this bill is one of them"

Read the full bill text here.