HI HB645

Appropriates funds for fiscal years 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 to apply for a Federal Aviation Administration spaceport license.

Authorizes the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to expend appropriated funds for the spaceport license application.

Identifies space tourism as a potential billion-dollar global industry that could increase state revenues, create aerospace jobs, and stimulate economic development in the Kalaeloa area.

Cites Virgin Galactic's $31 million in ticket revenue from space tourism passengers and existing FAA-licensed spaceports in New Mexico and Florida as evidence of industry viability.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.