Trump seeks to cut environmental rules for rocket launches
▼ Summary
– The Trump administration is considering reducing environmental and public safety regulations for commercial rocket launches, a change advocated by companies like SpaceX.
– A draft executive order aims to eliminate or speed up environmental reviews for launch licenses and may require states to allow more launch sites along coastlines.
– Critics warn the proposed deregulation could endanger public safety, wildlife, and habitats by removing protective measures.
– The order would shift control of the FAA’s commercial space office to a political appointee, increasing Trump’s influence over space industry regulation.
– A new adviser role would be created to oversee deregulation efforts in the space industry, according to the draft order.
The Trump administration is reportedly weighing significant reductions to environmental regulations governing commercial rocket launches, a move that would align with long-standing requests from major aerospace companies like SpaceX. A leaked draft executive order reveals plans to streamline or eliminate environmental reviews for launch licenses, potentially accelerating approval processes for new spaceports along coastal areas.
Industry leaders, including Elon Musk, have repeatedly clashed with federal regulators over what they view as excessive oversight. With commercial spaceflight activity increasing dramatically in recent years, proponents argue that cutting bureaucratic red tape will boost America’s competitive edge. However, environmental advocates warn that weakening safeguards could endanger both ecosystems and public safety.
Jared Margolis, a senior attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity, expressed deep concerns. “Rolling back protections designed to shield wildlife and communities from harm is reckless,” he said. “This isn’t just about efficiency, it’s about whether we’re willing to sacrifice safety for unchecked corporate expansion.”
The proposed order would also restructure oversight by converting the FAA’s top commercial space official into a political appointee, granting the White House greater influence over regulatory decisions. Additionally, a new advisory role would be created to spearhead deregulation efforts within the space sector.
While the White House declined to confirm specifics, spokesperson Kush Desai emphasized the administration’s commitment to “securing U.S. leadership in space without undermining safety or national security.” Until officially announced, he cautioned against treating the draft as finalized policy.
The potential shift comes amid leadership changes at the FAA’s commercial space office, where several senior officials recently departed. Critics argue that reducing environmental scrutiny could set a dangerous precedent, prioritizing corporate interests over long-term ecological and public health consequences.
(Source: Ars Technica)
