NASA ADMINISTRATOR THANKS CONGRESS FOR 2010 AUTHORIZATION ACT SUPPORT

The following is a statement from NASA Administrator
Charles Bolden regarding Wednesday’s action by the House of
Representatives on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Authorization Act of 2010.

“We thank the Congress for their thoughtful deliberations about NASA’s
future over the past months. Both the House and the Senate provided
insight, ideas and direction that were truly exemplary of the
democratic process. It is clear that our space program inspires
passion and dedication across party lines, and for that we are truly
thankful.

“This important vote today in the House of Representatives on a
comprehensive NASA authorization charts a vital new future for the
course of human space exploration. We are grateful that the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010
received strong support in the House after its clearance in the
Senate, and can now be sent on to the President for his signature.

“The President has laid out an ambitious new plan for NASA that
pioneers new frontiers of innovation and discovery. The plan invests
more in NASA; extends the life of the International Space Station;
launches a commercial space transportation industry; fosters the
development of path-breaking technologies; and helps create thousands
of new jobs. Passage of this bill represents an important step
forward towards helping us achieve the key goals set by the
President.

“This important change in direction will not only help us chart a new
path in space, but can help us retool for the industries and jobs of
the future that will be vital for long term economic growth.

“NASA appreciates all of the hard work and effort that has gone into
advancing this legislation.”