The bill HB2254 establishes the Arizona Space Commission (Commission) and the Space Exploration and Aeronautics Research Fund (Fund). The Commission will be governed by a Board of Directors consisting of members appointed by the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The Board is tasked with directing the Commission's activities, identifying research and funding opportunities, and developing a strategic plan for promoting space, aeronautics, and aviation in Arizona. The Fund, consisting of legislative appropriations and other contributions, will provide grants for various purposes related to space exploration and aeronautics, with a focus on projects near federal aviation administration-licensed spaceports, space defense, and commercial use.

The bill modifies the current law by increasing the number of Board members appointed by the Governor from five to seven and specifying the expertise and qualifications required for Board appointments. It also changes the frequency of strategic plan submissions to every even-numbered year instead of annually. The bill outlines the use of the Fund for developing emerging technologies, research, workforce training, curating space exploration materials, and developing infrastructure for spaceports. It also sets standards for grant recipients to prioritize purchasing from Arizona suppliers and requires grant recipients to report on the use of funds and findings. The bill prescribes a simplified grant application process and becomes effective on the general effective date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-3261