Rep. Kennedy Co-Leads Passed Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen DOE-NASA Partnership

WASHINGTON, D.C. (March 24, 2025) , the U.S. House of Representatives passed Representative Mike Kennedy, Representative Nick Begich’s (AK-R), and Representative George Whitesides' (CA-27) bipartisan legislation, the DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act. This bill formalizes and strengthens the long-standing partnership between the Department of Energy (DOE) and NASA, and establishes a strategic framework for collaboration in research and development, enhancing the capabilities of both agencies in key areas critical to their missions.

"I'm proud to co-lead this legislation to foster critical collaboration between the Department of Energy and NASA. By working together, NASA and DOE can unlock new opportunities and technological advancements to produce energy from space. This bill opens a new frontier and furthers President Trump's agenda to unleash American energy and keep the United States at the forefront of research and development," said Representative Mike Kennedy

“With today’s passage of the DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act, we are solidifying a critical partnership that has powered America’s leadership in space and energy innovation for decades,” said Congressman Begich. “This legislation ensures that two of our nation’s most advanced research agencies work hand-in-hand, driving the next generation of space exploration technologies while also advancing energy and communication systems here at home.”

“As NASA’s former Chief of Staff, I know that research collaboration is critical to the overall goal of advancing America’s leadership in space,” said Rep. George Whitesides. “By formalizing NASA’s partnership with the Department of Energy through bipartisan legislation, we can ensure greater efficiency, oversight, and progress in space exploration and energy innovation.”