"There is simply too much pressure on NASA's budget - now and in the future," said Chairwoman Mikulski. "The only way to reduce the pressure on the budget, and maintain a balanced space program, is to increase our federal commitment to NASA and our national space program."

The bill fully funds the President's budget request for Space Shuttle operations ($3 billion) and Space Station operations ($2 billion). The bill also provides $2.9 billion for development of the next generation Crew Launch Vehicle and Crew Exploration Vehicle. The bill provides $4.5 billion for NASA's science programs and $500 million for aeronautics research.

Chairwoman Mikulski also pledged to re-introduce her amendment to provide $1 billion in federal funding to pay back NASA for the costs of returning the Space Shuttle to flight. The funding will reimburse critical science, aeronautics and exploration programs that were cut to pay for repairs. This will mark Chairwoman Mikulski's third attempt to gain approval of her amendment.

"It is absolutely unacceptable that we will now have a five year gap during which the only way we'll be able to get U.S. astronauts to space is aboard a Russian vehicle," said Chairwoman Mikulski. "I am committed to restoring NASA's budget to ensure the continued safety of our astronauts, and to supporting the critical programs that are the hallmarks of their success."

In the next step of the appropriations process, the bill will move to the Senate floor for a vote, which has not yet been scheduled.

Related Links
Barbara A. Mikulski (D-Md)
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