COST ESTIMATION.

SEC. 836. [51 U.S.C. 30307 note] COST ESTIMATION. (a) Sense of Congress.—It is the sense of Congress that— (1) realistic cost estimating is critically important to the ultimate success of major space development projects; and (2) the Administration has devoted significant efforts over the past 5 years to improving its cost estimating capabilities, but it is important that the Administration continue its efforts to develop and implement guidance in establishing realistic cost estimates. (b) Guidance and Criteria.—The Administrator shall provide to its acquisition programs and projects, in a manner consistent with the Administration’s Space Flight Program and Project Management Requirements— (1) guidance on when to use an Independent Cost Estimate and Independent Cost Assessment; and (2) criteria to use to make a determination under paragraph (1).