BILL NUMBER: S6003
SPONSOR: SKOUFIS
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act in relation to establishing the space exploration task force
 
PURPOSE:
Relates to the creation of a task force to study space exploration.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Creates a task force and establishes who it shall be
comprised of. The task force will (i) examine and evaluate the economic
opportunities provided by space exploration and evolving space technolo-
gies in other states and countries; (ii) establish comprehensive metrics
to monitor the health and vitality of the entire New York space ecosys-
tem to identify challenges and track important trends over time; (iii)
identify the potential impacts on New York of the discovery and explora-
tion of celestial structures in outer space by means of evolving space
technology; and (iv) make recommendations on how to utilize space explo-
ration and evolving space technologies for the purposes of advancing
scientific research, exploring new economic and academic opportunities,
ensuring the future survival of humanity and developing strategic advan-
tages within the state. It shall submit a report on or before January 1,
2026, to the Governor and Legislature regarding its findings.
Section 2: Sets Effective Date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
During the 19th century, New York emerged as a gateway to the rest of
the United States with the opening of the Erie Canal in 1825. This engi-
neering marvel linked the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, transform-
ing New York into a vital hub for westward expansion. Just as New York
played a pivotal role in America's expansion to the westward frontier,
it can now serve as a gateway to the final frontier: space.
New York State boasts one of the largest economies and workforce and
academic talent pools in the United States. This unique combination of
financial resources, academic talent, and skilled workforce creates the
perfect storm for New York to become a leading center for space explora-
tion and technology development, not only in the U.S. but potentially
in the world. The exploration of space and advancement of space technol-
ogy are among the most important endeavors of the 21st century, opening
up new realms of possibility for scientific discovery, resource acquisi-
tion, and even the future survival of humanity.
New York has no reason to lag behind in this field. The opportunities in
space, the economy, and the workforce are immense-the space economy sat
at $570 billion in 2023, nearly double what it was just a decade ago.
For New York, there are too many jobs, investments, and scientific
discoveries at stake for us to not act.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
New Bill
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
To be determined.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.