Virgin Galactic Supports New Mexico Spaceport Liability Legislation

Virgin Galactic says it supports newly proposed New Mexico legislation to limit liability of spacecraft part suppliers from damage lawsuits by passengers on space tourism flights launched from the state.

Virgin Galactic President George Whitesides also confirms that the company was involved in negotiations that led to a proposed bill that may be introduced at the Legislature Wednesday.

House and Senate leaders call the legislation vital for developing a commercial space travel industry at a state-financed spaceport near Truth or Consequences in southern New Mexico.

Virgin Galactic plans to fly tourists into outer space at $200,000-a-ticket from Spaceport America.

Current state law provides Virgin Galactic protection from lawsuits resulting from lawsuits under certain conditions, but that liability protection doesn’t cover parts suppliers and makers.