Congressman Culberson sent a letter today signed by 39 of his colleagues to the House Appropriations Committee requesting additional funding for NASA in the FY2007 budget, which will be considered by the Committee next week.

Level funding for NASA in the current budget year could potentially delay the development of the new vehicle to replace the Shuttle. Any delays could widen the gap between the Shuttle's retirement and the launch of the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV). Priorities for science, aeronautic, and exploration accounts could also be affected. Congressman Culberson is a member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Science, Justice, and Commerce, which sets NASA funding.

“It is critical that the Appropriations Committee consider an increase in funding for NASA to sustain our Space Shuttle program and fulfill our commitments to the International Space Station. Increased spending will also speed up development of the CEV and minimize the amount of time the United States is grounded from space flight, so we don't risk our leadership in space exploration and increase our vulnerability to national security threats.

“NASA must also supplement critical science programs that are already suffering from cuts to pay for safety improvements and the recovery of the Columbia accident, and more recently the damage to facilities during Hurricane Katrina.

“With China doubling its investment in research over the next fifteen years to increase its national strength, the United States’ ability to compete globally in science, technology and innovation could suffer,” Culberson said.

Click here to read the letter.