((a)) ** .—** Acquisitions of space transportation services by the Federal Government shall be carried out in accordance with applicable acquisition laws and regulations (including applicable provisions of chapters 201 through 285, 341 through 343, and 363 of title 10). For purposes of such law and regulations, space transportation services shall be considered to be a commercial service.

((b)) ** .—** Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit the Federal Government from requiring compliance with applicable safety standards.