The California Coastal Commission has apologized to SpaceX as part of a legal settlement, acknowledging political bias in its 2024 decision to reject the company's plan to expand Falcon 9 rocket launches at Vandenberg Space Force Base. The settlement, filed in federal court on Tuesday, includes an admission that commissioners made improper statements about SpaceX CEO Elon Musk's political beliefs during the October 2024 hearing. The commission agreed not to consider political beliefs, speech, or labor practices in future regulatory actions concerning SpaceX.
SpaceX sued the commission after it opposed the U.S. Air Force's proposal to increase launches at the base, alleging political discrimination. The lawsuit claimed the commission's decision violated constitutional rights to free speech and due process. The settlement dismisses the case permanently, with no admission of liability by either party. The commission also agreed not to require a coastal development permit for SpaceX's launch program.
The dispute began when the commission rejected SpaceX's plan, arguing the launches constituted commercial activity subject to state coastal regulations. The Air Force, which has launch contracts with SpaceX, proceeded with the expanded schedule despite the commission's objection. Former commission chair Caryl Hart had criticized Musk for his political involvement, stating he 'aggressively injected himself into the Presidential race.'