California regulators have apologised to Elon Musk as part of a settlement ending a lawsuit that alleged political bias against SpaceX and its chief executive. The California Coastal Commission acknowledged that its members made “improper” statements about Musk’s political beliefs during a 2024 hearing on the company’s Falcon 9 launch programme.
The commission agreed in federal court documents filed on Tuesday that it “may not consider irrelevant factors” in its regulatory decisions. Specifically, it will not take into account the perceived political beliefs, political speech, or labour practices of SpaceX or its officers when considering regulatory action.
SpaceX had sued the commission after it opposed expanding launch schedules for Falcon 9 rockets from Vandenberg Space Force Base in southern California. The company accused the commission of political discrimination, alleging that commissioners voted against SpaceX due to dislike of Musk’s outspoken political views, violating his constitutional rights to free speech and due process.
Under the settlement, the case will be permanently dismissed without either party admitting liability or unlawful conduct. The commission also agreed it would not require a coastal development permit for SpaceX’s launch programme in the state.
In a statement on Wednesday, the commission apologised for “irrelevant” statements by its members but reiterated concerns about the environmental impact of increased launches, including restrictions on public coastal access, harm to sensitive species, and sonic booms. It noted that the federal government has not provided sufficient information on these activities.
