Overview
- California’s coastal regulator filed a federal court settlement Tuesday that includes a public apology and a pledge not to consider SpaceX’s or Elon Musk’s political views in any regulatory action.
- The agreement says SpaceX does not need state coastal permits for launch activities inside federal enclave areas at Vandenberg, which are parts of the base under direct federal control.
- The dispute began with the commission’s October 10, 2024 vote to reject more Falcon 9 launches after some commissioners criticized Musk’s political activity, and SpaceX sued on October 15, 2024.
- The deal, signed by both parties and California Attorney General Rob Bonta, dismisses the case without admitting liability as the commission says it still worries about coastal impacts such as wildlife, public access, and sonic booms.
- During the standoff, the U.S. Air Force backed SpaceX and kept the expanded launch schedule, and the settlement now clarifies federal-versus-state roles that could shape future projects on military bases.