Bill would elevate space commerce office and offer free satellite tracking data
Placed on the calendarS. 428Latest action
Sponsor: John Cornyn · Senator · TX
AIDecoded by AI · checked against the recordRead the official text
Official title: SAFE Orbit Act
119th Congress
Topics: AI & technology
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The SAFE Orbit Act creates a free public database to track objects in orbit and elevates the Office of Space Commerce into a full bureau.
50-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
The bill directs the Department of Commerce to collect and share unclassified data on the location and movement of objects in orbit through a free public database, giving satellite operators basic tracking and collision-warning services at no cost. It also elevates the Office of Space Commerce, currently under NOAA, into an independent Bureau of Space Commerce within five years, led by a Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Space Commerce.
Who does it affect?
Satellite operators and commercial space companies are directly affected, gaining free collision-avoidance data and clearer rules on working with private space-tracking firms. The reorganization also affects Commerce Department structure and reporting to Congress.
Why does it matter?
Preventing collisions in orbit helps protect satellite systems that support GPS, weather forecasting, and communications used by the public. The government is directed to rely on private companies for tracking services rather than compete with them, and liability protections shield providers of this safety data from lawsuits.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedFeb 5, 2025
- Senate committee
- Senate voteYou are here · Sep 29, 2025
- House
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the House changes it, it goes back to the Senate before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 170.