[meteorite-list] Planetary Resources Applauds U.S. Congress in Recognizing Asteroid Resource Property Rights

[Ron Baalke]

http://www.planetaryresources.com/2015/11/planetary-resources-applauds-u-s-congress-in-recognizing-asteroid-resource-property-rights/

Planetary Resources Applauds U.S. Congress in Recognizing Asteroid Resource Property Rights
November 10, 2015

Redmond, Wash. - November 10, 2015 - Planetary Resources, Inc., the asteroid 
mining company, praises the members of Congress who promoted historic 
legislation (H.R. 2262) that recognizes the right of U.S. citizens to 
own asteroid resources they obtain as property and encourages the commercial 
exploration and recovery of resources from asteroids, free from harmful 
interference.

This legislation creates a pro-growth environment for the development 
of the commercial space industry by encouraging private sector investment 
and ensuring a more stable and predictable regulatory regime. This law 
is important for the industry and is integral to protecting and supporting 
U.S. interests as the commercial space sector continues to expand.

"We are proud to have the support of Congress. Throughout history, governments 
have spurred growth in new frontiers by instituting sensible legislation. 
Long ago, The Homestead Act of 1862 advocated for the search for gold 
and timber, and today, H.R. 2262 fuels a new economy that will open many 
avenues for the continual growth and prosperity of humanity. This off-planet 
economy will forever change our lives for the better here on Earth," said 
Chris Lewicki, President and Chief Engineer, Planetary Resources, Inc.

"Planetary Resources is grateful for the leadership shown by Congress 
in crafting this legislation and looks forward to President Obama signing 
the language into law. We applaud the members of Congress who have led 
this effort and actively sought stakeholder input to ensure a vibrant 
economy and prosperous way of life now and for centuries to come. Patty 
Murray (D-WA), Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), Lamar Smith (R-TX), Bill Posey (R-FL) 
and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) have been unwavering in their support and leadership 
for the growth of the U.S. economy into the Solar System. Their forward-looking 
stance and active role in enabling the development of an economically 
and strategically valuable new marketplace will ensure our country's continued 
leadership in space," said Peter Marquez, Vice President of Global Engagement, 
Planetary Resources, Inc.

Senator Murray said, "I am glad that we've taken this important step forward 
to update our federal policies to make sure they work for innovative businesses 
creating jobs in Washington state.  Washington state leads in so many 
ways, and I'm proud that local businesses are once again at the forefront 
of new industries that will help our economy continue to grow."

Congressman Posey said, "This bipartisan, bicameral legislation is a landmark 
for American leadership in space exploration. Recognizing basic legal 
protections in space will help pave the way for exciting future commercial 
space endeavors. Asteroids and other objects in space are excellent potential 
sources of rare minerals and other resources that can be used to manufacture 
a wide range of products here on Earth and to support future space exploration 
missions. Americans willing to invest in space mining operations need 
legal certainty that they can keep the fruits of their labor, and this 
bill provides that certainty."

Congressman Kilmer said, "The commercial space industry in Washington 
state is leading the way in developing the cutting edge technology necessary 
to support human space exploration. The U. S. Commercial Space Launch 
Competitiveness Act will give these ventures the framework they need to 
continue to innovate, and to keep the United States at the head of this 
growing, global industry. I congratulate the Senate for taking this step, 
and I look forward to the House quickly sending this bill to President 
Obama's desk."

Eric Anderson, Co-Founder and Co-Chairman, Planetary Resources, Inc., 
said, "Many years from now, we will view this pivotal moment in time as 
a major step toward humanity becoming a multi-planetary species. This 
legislation establishes the same supportive framework that created the 
great economies of history, and it will foster the sustained development 
of space."