"Human Spaceflight Regulations: A 20-Year Ban Set to Expire"

A nearly 20-year ban on federal safety regulations for commercial astronauts and space tourists is set to expire at the end of September. The ban, known as a "learning period," was established to allow space companies time to develop and learn how to safely fly in space without being burdened by regulations. The House Science Committee is considering a commercial space bill that might extend the learning period, but it's unclear if it can be passed before October 1. The commercial space industry is pushing for an extension, arguing that passenger safety regulations are not yet needed. In the meantime, representatives from major commercial space companies are working on non-binding industry standards for passenger safety.