Views & Estimates :: March 19, 1998

Additional Democratic Views and Estimates by Rep. Nick Lampson

I strongly disagree with the proposed language in the Majority's Views and Estimates regarding Johnson Space Center. In noting increased Space Station costs, the language proposed by the Majority suggests that placing program management responsibility at Johnson Space Center has produced a lack of accountability and slow decision-making contributing to station cost growth. There is no evidence or even allegation - other than the words in the Majority's report - that any reduced accountability has come from this decision. Nor is there any evidence that management responsibility at Johnson Space Center has contributed to cost growth in this program. I am surprised at the allegation made by the Majority because there is absolutely no evidence to support it.

Moreover, the decision to place the Program Management Responsibility and the Program Management Office at Johnson Space Center was made as a result of recommendations made by the Vest Committee, which reviewed the space station redesign in 1993. The establishment of a leaner and more responsive and accountable management structure was one of the significant findings of the Vest Committee. The House Science Committee applauded the Vest Committee recommendations in 1993 and in subsequent years held NASA accountable for implementing those recommendations, including the management recommendations. To now suggest that this decision is wrong would be a reversal of the committee's historical position without any factual demonstration of the need to make such a change.

I also want to record my support for the Minority Views submitted by Mr. Brown.