Congressman Begich Passes Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen DOE-NASA Partnership

WASHINGTON, D.C. – March 24, 2025 – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Nick Begich’s (AK-R) bipartisan legislation, the DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act. The bill, co-sponsored by Congressman George Whitesides (CA-27), formalizes and strengthens the long-standing partnership between the Department of Energy (DOE) and NASA, ensuring more coordinated and effective research in space exploration and energy innovation.

“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.”

For more than half a century, DOE and NASA have collaborated on groundbreaking developments including Radioisotope Power Systems, nuclear thermal propulsion, and surface power systems which are vital to enabling long-duration space missions. Despite this successful history, their partnership has never been formally established until now.

The DOE and NASA Interagency Research Coordination Act:

• Directs DOE and NASA to jointly pursue cross-cutting research and development;
• Requires both agencies to report to Congress within two years on their collaborative work and future plans;
• Does not authorize additional spending, ensuring coordination is achieved within existing agency budgets.

The bill now heads to the Senate for consideration.

###