H.B. No. 4157 amends the Civil Practice and Remedies Code to enhance liability protections for commercial space flight and exploration. The definition of "space flight participant" is revised to exclude the term "who is not crew," thereby broadening the scope of individuals considered participants in space flight activities. Additionally, the bill modifies the requirements for enforceable agreements between space flight participants and entities, removing the necessity for a signature from a competent witness and adding a requirement for the participant to sign on behalf of their heirs and representatives.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new section that recognizes the enforceability of reciprocal waivers of claims between parties involved in space flight activities, as outlined in federal regulations. This provision allows for waivers by contractors, subcontractors, or customers participating in such activities. The changes will apply only to causes of action that arise on or after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any claims accruing prior to this date will be governed by the existing law.

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