East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Mike Crapo and John Hickenlooper have introduced the Space Guard Establishment Act, aiming to create a dedicated reserve component for the United States Space Force (USSF). This proposed Space National Guard (SNG) would support active-duty USSF members by providing specialized education, training, and experience in space operations.

Senator Crapo emphasized the need for highly trained individuals to address threats from countries like China and Russia. "Establishing a Space National Guard will better prepare and streamline the work of our existing space personnel," he stated. Senator Hickenlooper highlighted that this initiative would ensure a continued service path for National Guard space experts, calling it "a win-win for service members and our leadership in space."

Major General Francis McGinn (Ret.), President of the National Guard Association of the United States, expressed strong support for the bill, describing it as a "commonsense solution" to maintain readiness without compromising current capabilities.

The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Jim Risch, Alex Padilla, Marsha Blackburn, Michael Bennet, and Rick Scott. It addresses organizational issues stemming from 2019 when Congress authorized the USSF but left some National Guard members under U.S. Air Force leadership.

The legislation proposes establishing 14 SNG units across seven states: Alaska, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New York, and Ohio. It also seeks to override Legislative Proposal 480 from the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. This proposal had faced opposition due to concerns about eroding state governors' control over their respective National Guards.

Representatives Jason Crow and Lauren Boebert are introducing companion legislation in the House of Representatives. The act has garnered support from both NGAUS and EANGUS.