Lawmakers Form Planetary Science Caucus

Congressman Ami Bera (D-CA) and Congresswomen Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Nydia Velázquez (D-NY) are among a group of lawmakers who have officially formed the Planetary Science Caucus. The goals of the Caucus are to advance federal policies that support the search for life in the solar system and beyond; raise awareness of the benefits to the economy and industrial base resulting from federal investment in space science, technology, exploration, and STEM education; and support private industry, academic institutions, and nonprofits that support space science and exploration. Recently, Bill Nye and the Space Policy & Advocacy team met with 18 congressional offices to discuss the new Planetary Science Caucus. The Planetary Society serves as the founding partner of this Caucus. Additional members of the Caucus include Adam Smith (D-WA), Bill Posey (R-FL), Jackie Speier (D-CA), Bill Foster (D-IL), Randy Hultgren (R-IL), Elizabeth Esty (D-CT), and Adam Schiff (D-CA). Congressmen John Culberson (R-TX) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) are the Caucus Co-Chairs. This is the first Caucus devoted to planetary science in the history of Congress. The lawmakers are planning a kickoff event in May. More here.