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2013 state law protects SpaceX from being liable for damages caused by launches

2 years 3 months 3 weeks ago Friday, December 03 2021 Dec 3, 2021 December 03, 2021 9:14 PM December 03, 2021 in News - Local

As SpaceX ramps up operations at their Boca Chica launch site, the space exploration company is set to make history next year with the launch their starship vehicle into a suborbital flight. 

Previous launches and recoveries have led to some damage to nearby homes and property, and a state law has people concerned any attempts to seek compensation will be blocked.

In less than a month, SpaceX will look to send their first starship vehicle into suborbital flight on the back of a super heavy rocket booster with 24 raptor engines, which will be 1,100% more powerful than previous launches.

For years, the facility has operated and launched from Boca Chica under environmental and safety assessments for the company's much smaller Falcon 9 vehicles, something Jim Chapman and the board at SaveRGV are trying to change.

RELATED: Upcoming SpaceX launch raising concerns for Cameron County residents, business owners

The group has a new concern that popped up behind the scenes in 2013 when then-Gov. Rick Perry signed a state law that says space companies testing, launching, or recovering rockets can’t be held legally liable for damages caused to surrounding areas or properties.

Local Rep. Eddie Lucio III was a co-sponsor of the legislation.

A spokesperson for Lucio said they are working on a response.

Channel 5 News also reached out to SpaceX, which did not respond to a request for comment.

Watch the video above for the full story.

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