Congresswoman Stephanie Bice was successful at getting three of her weather policy proposals added to the Weather Act Reauthorization during its markup in the U.S. House Science, Space, and Technology Committee this week.
Bice’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio Modernization Act, the National Mesonet Authorization Act, and the Weather Innovation for Next Generation (WING) Act were added to the legislation.
“Americans across the country, and especially Oklahomans, rely on accurate weather forecasting in order to protect their life and property. The Weather Act Reauthorization ensures we have the resources we need when critical weather events strike. I am grateful that this legislation includes my bills the NOAA Weather Radio Act, the National Mesonet Authorization Act, and the WING Act. I was proud to support this bill and want to thank Chairman Lucas for his leadership and for his focus on protecting Oklahomans.”
Congressman Frank Lucas chairs the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee.
The NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act will replace outdated technology in the weather radio system, begin developing a transition to IP-based communication, and develop future failsafe options for National Weather Radio.
The National Mesonet Authorization Act would increase the number of real-time data and observation stations and will seek out public-private partnerships to improve the quality and quantity of weather data collected.
The WING Act will have the National Weather Service work with the Assistant Administrator for Oceanic and Atmospheric Research to establish a research and development program to improve weather radar detection and prediction capabilities in areas which have wind farms directly in the line of sight. That can give false readings to current radar technology.
