As SpaceX pushes forward with its plans to incorporate Starbase into an official city in Texas, lawmakers have rejected legislation that would have granted the company broader authority over public infrastructure, including a key highway and local beach access. Located in Boca Chica on the Gulf Coast, Starbase is the site where SpaceX builds and launches its rockets, including the massive Starship vehicles envisioned for future Mars missions. The area, home to roughly 500 people including SpaceX employees and their families, is currently undergoing a vote to determine its future as a formally recognized city, with the election concluding on Saturday.
Despite this momentum, the Texas House State Affairs Committee voted down a proposal that would have allowed SpaceX to take greater control over local roads and beach closures, a move that drew strong opposition from community groups and activists. The company has routinely needed to close nearby roads and public beaches to conduct test flights, leading to tension with local residents and legal disputes. Among those opposed are the Carrizo Comecrudo Tribe of Texas, environmental groups, and labor advocacy organizations, who have argued that such closures disrupt daily life and damage sensitive ecosystems.
SpaceX’s operations have not been without environmental controversy. Test launches have occasionally caused fires and degradation to nearby habitats, some of which are home to endangered species. In a notable case, the Environmental Protection Agency fined the company for violations of the Clean Water Act related to pollution of Texas waterways. Though Elon Musk responded to regulatory pressure by threatening legal action against the FAA, no lawsuit was ultimately filed.
Public scrutiny intensified following widespread media coverage of ecological damage caused by the company’s activity. In response, Musk made a flippant remark on social media, joking that he would give up omelets for a week to atone for the environmental impact. Days later, he formally endorsed Donald Trump’s presidential campaign, following an assassination attempt on the candidate. Since then, Musk has become an influential advisor to Trump and now plays a role in shaping national spaceflight and environmental policy.
As head of the Department of Government Efficiency, Musk has contributed to efforts to weaken both the EPA and FAA. Under the current administration, dozens of environmental regulations are under review or targeted for repeal, especially those aimed at controlling air and water pollution. Meanwhile, similar bills in Texas may resurface as the legislature reconvenes next month.
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