Texas bill grants SpaceX potential control over beach access
SpaceX may gain significant control over public access in South Texas through proposed state senate bills. These bills, introduced amidst plans for Starbase to become a city, would grant SpaceX-aligned officials authority over beach closures and enforce evacuation orders.
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The upcoming May 3rd election, where Starbase is expected to be incorporated as a city, will likely result in SpaceX officials controlling the area, given the predominantly SpaceX-affiliated population.
Republican state senator Adam Hinojosa’s SB 2188 and its House counterpart, HB 4660, would allow Starbase city officials to determine weekday closures of Boca Chica Beach for rocket activities. Current control, held by Cameron County, would be limited to Friday afternoons and weekends.
Hinojosa’s SB 2230 would further empower SpaceX by making non-compliance with evacuation orders a Class B misdemeanour. He argues this gives the spaceport “real teeth” for enforcement.
FAA environmental assessments indicate SpaceX has shifted testing to sites that minimize State Highway 4 closures. However, previous closures have lasted for extended periods, raising concerns.
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Environmental groups, including the Centre for Biological Diversity, have sued the FAA over SpaceX’s permitting process, citing potential environmental damage. The EPA has also fined SpaceX for alleged pollutant dumping in nearby wetlands.
Craig Nazor of the Sierra Club testified against the bills, warning that SB 2188 would place beach closure authority directly in SpaceX’s hands. He also expressed concern that SB 2230 could criminalize individuals unaware of launch activities.
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