Schmitt, Duckworth, Bennet’s Bipartisan Bill to Promote Space Exploration, Boost U.S.-Taiwan Relations Passes Commerce Committee

U.S. SENATE - U.S. Senators Eric Schmitt (R-MO), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Michael Bennet (D-CO) today announced their bipartisan Taiwan and American Space Assistance Act (TASA) passed out of the Commerce Committee and will now head to the Senate floor. TASA helps the United States counter threats from China and addresses current gaps in NASA's ability to cooperate with Taiwan's space efforts, including satellite programs, space exploration initiatives, and atmospheric and weather research.

"As space exploration and satellite operations continue to evolve, they are becoming central to our national security. Cooperating with our allies in the region to share the best and most advanced technology will help the United States gain key insights into space activities in the Indo-Pacific and counter malign influences such as China, our chief adversary. I'm glad to see this bill move one step closer to becoming law, and I will continue working to strengthen our relationship with Taiwan," said Senator Schmitt.

"As the United States continues to be the global leader in space exploration and in expanding new, innovative technology for space and satellite operations, it's crucial that we work with our partners in the Indo-Pacific to advance and prosper," said Senator Duckworth. "I'm proud to reintroduce our bipartisan bill that would help our nation work with Taiwan to utilize new technologies and improve our work in the space domain."

"Taiwan is a vibrant democracy, a key economic partner, and an increasingly capable space player. This legislation will enable NASA and NOAA cooperation with Taiwan's Space Agency, strengthening our joint ability to tackle shared challenges in space," said Senator Bennet. "I look forward to working with my bipartisan colleagues to pass this bill into law and further deepen the U.S.-Taiwan partnership."

Specifically, the TASA Act would:

• Allow for extended cooperation between the Taiwan Space Agency and NASA
• Allow for extended cooperation between the Taiwan Space Agency and NOAA
• Provide an avenue for the voluntary exchange of personnel from NASA and NOAA to the Taiwan Space Agency to further advance Taiwan's space capabilities.
• Extend cooperation in areas of satellite program development, space exploration, as well as atmospheric and weather programs.

###