Trump Tax Bill Funds $85 Million Move of Space Shuttle Discovery to Houston With $30 Admission, Senators Cornyn and Cruz Support

The Space Shuttle Discovery is set to be relocated from the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum in Chantilly, Virginia, to Space Center Houston under a provision included in President Donald Trump's recent tax and immigration legislation, informally known as the "Big, Beautiful Bill." The measure, supported by U.S. Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, allocates $85 million for the shuttle's transport and construction of a new exhibit space in Houston. However, the Smithsonian estimates the total cost could reach $300 million. The move would transfer the shuttle from a museum with free admission to one charging $30 per visitor, raising concerns about accessibility and taxpayer expense. Despite the legislative provision, the Smithsonian has expressed commitment to retaining the shuttle in Chantilly, indicating ongoing debate over the relocation.