Alabama Space Authority, renamed Alabama Aerospace Authority; membership increased; duties and powers increased

SB 228 renames Alabama's "Space Authority" to the "Alabama Aerospace Authority" effective October 1, 2026, and expands its membership. The bill adds the Finance Director, Secretary of Workforce, and Chief Executive of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center Commission (as a nonvoting member) to the board. It clarifies the authority's existing duties, including promoting aerospace education, space tourism, and public-private partnerships, and enhances its power to lease property, enter contracts, and accept grants. The bill directly affects the authority's governance structure and operational capacity but does not introduce new funding or major policy changes.