California Republican Vince Fong introduced legislation Wednesday designed to accelerate American commercial space operations while blocking China’s access to United States research and development partnerships, directly challenging the communist nation’s aggressive space expansion.

OUTPACE in Space Act Cuts Regulatory Delays

The bill modernizes Federal Aviation Administration regulations that currently delay commercial rocket launches by up to two years. Fong’s legislation creates additional airspace for frequent commercial launches and hypersonic testing while expediting FAA hiring to match the rapidly growing private space sector. The measure requires the FAA and Department of Transportation to integrate commercial space operations into the national airspace system, removing bureaucratic obstacles that industry leaders say cost companies millions in delayed launches.

David Smith, CEO of Mojave Air and Space Port, explained that current licensing applications cost substantial sums with review periods stretching two years. The OUTPACE in Space Act streamlines this process, allowing new firms to gain market entry and driving down costs through increased competition. Commercial Space Federation President Dave Cavossa emphasized the urgency, noting America’s push to establish a lunar base ahead of China requires licensing processes that match industry pace rather than hinder it.

Blocking Adversary Access to American Innovation

The legislation prohibits federal agencies from partnering with China, Iran, and other adversaries on space research and development. Fong pointed to China’s government-backed space program receiving massive investments while American companies navigate regulatory red tape. The congressman argued that outdated regulations handicap American innovation despite the nation possessing superior workers with unmatched ingenuity and skills, particularly in California’s aerospace sector.

Freshman Congressman Pushes Space Agenda

Fong, elected in 2024 to replace former Speaker Kevin McCarthy, has made space and aerial legislation central to his congressional agenda. He previously proposed bills modernizing space transportation infrastructure and supporting commercial hypersonics testing. The OUTPACE in Space Act represents his most comprehensive effort to position American companies ahead of China in the intensifying space race, combining regulatory reform with national security provisions that prevent adversaries from accessing United States technological advances.