Scalise Expresses Concern For NASA FY 2011 Budget

Statement

Congressman Steve Scalise today released the following statement after NASA presented its program assignments for implementing the agency's exploration initiatives proposed in the President's fiscal year 2011 budget.

"I am extremely concerned about the future of American space exploration as this Administration continues to cede our nation's leadership and dominance in the space industry," Scalise said. "Today's announcement leaves Michoud behind in the space race. While I am glad that NASA acknowledged Stennis Space Center's unique testing capabilities, I will continue to push the Administration to release details on their future plans for Michoud, and I will insist that Michoud play a key role in the future of human space-flight by promoting the assets and capabilities of the facility and their highly-skilled workforce."

NASA administrators issued an outline for new and extended program assignments at NASA's ten space centers across the country. Under the released plans, Stennis will play a significant role in the Heavy Lift and Propulsion Technology program due to its unique capabilities and rocket engine test facilities. Plans were also released for Marshall Space Flight Center, which manages the Michoud Assembly Facility, but these plans included no mention of Michoud.

In March, Scalise sent a letter to NASA Administrator Bolden emphasizing the negative impacts the proposed cancellation of the Constellation program would have on the technological edge that NASA and America have enjoyed since the agency's earliest days.

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