President signs H.R. 1654, the “National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2000.”

Today I have signed into law H.R. 1654, the “National Aeronautics
and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2000.”

I commend the bipartisan efforts of the Congress to pass a NASA
authorization bill that funds my Administration’s priorities, including
building the International Space Station, improving Space Shuttle
safety, reducing the cost of access to space through the new Space
Launch Initiative, and investing in outstanding science and technology.

I am disappointed, however, that this bill falls short of enabling
NASA to conduct the most balanced, efficient, and effective space
program. My Administration communicated significant objections and
concerns with H.R. 1654 as it progressed through the legislative
process. This bill satisfactorily addresses many of the key concerns;
however, it limits NASA’s flexibility to pursue a promising commercial
habitation module for the International Space Station. It also
includes several other objectionable provisions and fails to include
all but one of the fourteen legislative provisions proposed by my
Administration.

I have signed this bill today because it authorizes funding for a
robust space and aeronautics program for the Nation.