The Nation : Bill to Allow Space Station Funding Signed by Reagan

President Reagan signed a $48.5-billion appropriations bill that includes funding for federal housing and veterans benefits. In addition, the legislation permits the transfer of $900 million from the Defense Department to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration to finance the space station Freedom. In a statement from his ranch near Santa Barbara, Reagan said that “the space station will advance the frontiers of scientific knowledge and strengthen cooperation in space among the United States and its allies.” Reagan also noted that the measure provides funds for “essential federal housing assistance programs” and strengthens efforts to improve the environment. The bill was the second of 13 appropriations bills to reach his desk. Reagan urged Congress to submit the other bills quickly.