Sponsors (4)
The bill boosts U.S. space and emerging-technology capabilities by funding coordinated DOE–NASA R&D and opening federal infrastructure to joint work, while raising trade‑offs around higher federal spending, nuclear safety concerns, potential funding inequities, and increased data‑security risks.
Researchers, national laboratories, and students gain expanded competitive DOE–NASA R&D funding opportunities across propulsion, quantum, AI, and related areas, increasing resources for joint projects and training.
Scientists, researchers, and federal mission planners gain accelerated development of advanced propulsion technologies (including nuclear thermal/electric and radioisotope power), which could speed space missions and scientific discovery.
Tech workers, researchers, and U.S. industry benefit from strengthened U.S. competitiveness in quantum information sciences and AI through coordinated R&D efforts.
Taxpayers may face higher federal research spending as DOE–NASA R&D programs expand, potentially increasing the budgetary burden.
Communities near facilities, hospitals, and first responders could face elevated safety and health concerns from research into nuclear propulsion and handling of advanced nuclear fuels.
Small universities, nonprofits, and less-connected applicants may be disadvantaged if broadly worded funding authority leads to disproportionate support for well-connected institutions or established mission priorities.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Allows DOE and NASA to coordinate and carry out joint R&D, make competitive awards, enter interagency agreements, and report to Congress within two years.
Introduced February 14, 2025 by Nicholas J. Begich · Last progress March 25, 2025
Authorizes the Energy Department and NASA to work together, when practical, on joint research and development projects and to make competitive awards that support both agencies' missions. It allows the agencies to use interagency and reimbursable agreements, collaborate with other federal partners, follow merit-review for awards, and requires a joint report to Congress within two years.