Thune Proposes Modernization for the National Weather Service

Statement

U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) today introduced S. 1573, the National Weather Service Improvement Act. The bill modernizes the National Weather Service (NWS) in three critical areas: it reinvests some resources from the NWS's 122 local weather forecast offices to six regional centers, emphasizes improving clear communication of weather forecast warnings, and mandates disclosures following concerns about personnel contracting misconduct.

"Focusing the National Weather Service's resources regionally would improve the public's access to quality forecasting and reduce the danger of local staff being overwhelmed during severe weather outbreaks," said Thune. "A study by the National Academies of Sciences touted the benefits of a regional approach and found that the Internet and other technologies have transformed the landscape of forecasting. These findings warrant the consideration of Congress, and it's time to start this important discussion. Reforming an agency and increasing accountability will always be a challenge, but increasing public access to quality forecasting can save lives."

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