Congresswoman Johnson applauds passage of H.R. 353, the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017, under suspension of the rules.
If enacted, H.R. 353 will improve weather research at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration by advancing programs and activities that will make critical investments in the nation’s observational, computing, and modeling capabilities in support of more accurate, timely, and effective weather warnings and forecasts.
“The National Weather Service and the Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research at NOAA play a central role in protecting the lives and property of every American.
“The bill before us today will help accelerate innovation, and turn cutting-edge weather research into essential weather forecasting tools and products; tools which forecasters can then use to protect American lives.
“The legislation removes barriers that exist between the weather research community, our nation’s forecasters, and the private-sector weather enterprise. Improving collaboration and cooperation within NOAA, and also between the agency and the broader weather community, will impact the accuracy and timing of our weather predictions. These improvements will ultimately save lives and make our communities safer.
“Strengthening our resilience to severe weather events is both vital and necessary to strengthen our nation’s economic security.” - Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson
