Trump Signs Order Easing Rocket Launch Rules, Boosting SpaceX and Private Space Industry

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order aimed at streamlining federal regulations for commercial rocket launches, a move expected to benefit Elon Musk’s SpaceX and other private space ventures.

The order directs the transportation secretary to eliminate or expedite environmental reviews for launch licenses issued by the Federal Aviation Administration and scrap “outdated, redundant, or overly restrictive” rules for launch and reentry vehicles.

“Inefficient permitting processes discourage investment and innovation, limiting the ability of US companies to lead in global space markets,” the order states, adding that excessive regulations slow launches and infrastructure development, favoring established players over new entrants.

While not named in the order, SpaceX—already the nation’s most frequent launcher—stands to gain the most. Musk has repeatedly complained that environmental reviews and mishap investigations have delayed testing of the company’s next-generation Starship rocket at its South Texas site.