The Florida Senate

331.368  Florida Space Research Institute.--

(1)  There is created the Florida Space Research Institute, the purpose of which is to serve as an industry-driven center for research, leveraging the state's resources in a collaborative effort to support Florida's space industry and its transition to commercialization.

(2)  The institute shall operate as a public/private partnership under the direction of a board comprised of representatives of the Spaceport Florida Authority, Enterprise Florida, Inc., the Florida Aviation and Aerospace Alliance, and four additional space industry representatives selected by the core membership of the board.

(3)  The board of the Florida Space Research Institute shall:

(a)  Set the strategic direction for the institute, including research priorities, the scope of research projects, and the timeframes for completion.

(b)  Invite the participation of public and private universities, including, but not limited to, the University of Central Florida, the University of Florida, the University of South Florida, Florida State University, Florida Institute of Technology, and the University of Miami.

(c)  Select a lead university to serve as coordinator of research and as the administrative entity of the institute.

(4)  By December 1 of each year, the institute shall submit a report of its activities and accomplishments for the prior fiscal year to the Governor, the President of the Senate, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives. The report shall also include recommendations regarding actions the state should take to enhance the development of space-related businesses, including:

(a)  Future research activities.

(b)  The development of capital and technology assistance to new and expanding industries.

(c)  The removal of regulatory impediments.

(d)  The establishment of business development incentives.

(e)  The initiation of education and training programs to ensure a skilled workforce.

History.--s. 20, ch. 99-256.