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HB 335

Spaceport Operations

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Wyman Duggan and 1 co-sponsor

House Bill 335 boosts Florida's spaceports by defining roles, enhancing operational efficiency, and promoting integrated transportation hubs for economic growth.

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Bill Summary · HB 335

Summary of House Bill 335: Spaceport Operations

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HB 335
  • Title: Spaceport Operations
  • Status: Currently in the Economic Infrastructure Subcommittee
  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Sponsor: Representative Andy Whitt
  • Classification: Legislative Bill
  • Subject: Aviation, real and personal property

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 335 aims to enhance the operational framework for spaceports in Florida by defining key terms and establishing the roles and responsibilities of spaceport operators and the governing body, Space Florida. The bill seeks to promote the development of quintimodal transportation hubs, which integrate various modes of transport including road, rail, air, sea, and space.

Key Provisions

  1. Definitions:

    • Introduces terms such as "quintimodal transportation hub" and "spaceport director or commander" to clarify the operational context of spaceports.

  2. Duties of Space Florida:

    • Mandates Space Florida to enhance and promote the development and use of quintimodal transportation hubs in coordination with local governments and transportation agencies.

  3. Operational Oversight:

    • Assigns authority over the management and daily operations of each spaceport to the designated spaceport director or commander.
    • Space Florida retains responsibility for statewide strategic planning and economic development but will not directly control local operational decisions unless requested.

  4. Operational Governance Plan:

    • Requires each spaceport to develop and maintain an operational governance plan that aligns with Space Florida's strategic plan, submitted annually without needing approval.

  5. Board Composition:

    • Revises the composition of the Space Florida board of directors to include representatives from various transportation authorities, ensuring a diverse governance structure.

  6. Amendments to Existing Statutes:

    • Updates several sections of Florida Statutes to conform to the new definitions and operational structures introduced in this bill.

Impact

  • Spaceport Operators: The bill empowers spaceport operators with clear authority and responsibilities, potentially improving operational efficiency and safety.
  • Local Governments: Local entities will have a defined role in the development of transportation hubs, fostering collaboration with state agencies.
  • Economic Development: By promoting integrated transportation solutions, the bill aims to enhance economic opportunities related to space and transportation sectors in Florida.

Procedural Timeline

  • February 25, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the House Committee on Economic Development and Tourism.
  • March 4, 2025: Engrossed and passed in the House.
  • May 6, 2025: Delivered to the Governor for signature.
  • May 14, 2025: Enacted into law.

Conclusion

House Bill 335 represents a significant step in advancing Florida's spaceport operations and transportation infrastructure. By establishing clear definitions and responsibilities, the bill aims to facilitate the growth of the space industry while enhancing the state's transportation capabilities.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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