After a fierce debate, with politicians vocally supporting or opposing the tax enabling the construction of Spaceport America by Virgin Galactic, it seems that New Mexico may secure its place solar history after all.
With 8,781 voters (or 50.6%) in favor of the tax enabling the spaceport to exist (with 8577 opposed), New Mexico will probably become a destination for not only space tourists in general, but perhaps the emerging space industry as well.
Final results can be viewed over here.
New Mexico's actions will probably establish a precedent for future spaceports in America, and is perhaps a sign that a new space culture is emerging in our society.
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The additional penny tax on every $2.50 USD spending approval has been a close context in Dona Ana County, New Mexico. Nonetheless, it does keep the momentum advancing in a positive direction for the spaceport specifically and space tourism more generally. The commercial space industry may breathe a small sigh of relief that the ballot question appears to have passed.
ReplyDeleteLater today, the Virginia Legislature will give final approval to the nation's first commercial spacflight liability and immunity act boosting the prospects of the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport on the coast of Virginia.
Hey Jack,
ReplyDeleteThat definitely is good news to hear (both New Mexico and Virgina).
Hopefully we can overcome these hurdles as it would give our planet something better to focus upon aside from killing each other and developing interesting ways of entertaining ourselves to death.