SPACE COMMISSION WORKING GROUP

HB 96 creates a temporary working group to study the feasibility of establishing a state space commission in New Mexico. The group, appointed by the governor, lieutenant governor, and legislative leaders with aerospace expertise, must develop recommendations on the commission's structure, scope, and board design by October 1, 2026. It will identify key aerospace stakeholders, outline a strategic plan including workforce pathways, and propose a budget framework. The working group will report findings to the economic development committee, with $200,000 allocated for its administrative support. This bill does not create a commission but sets the process for evaluating one.