Summary of HR 4482

Bill Number: HR 4482

Title: To impose a moratorium on closing, suspending, terminating leases of, ceasing construction of, consolidating, or otherwise imposing any new limitation on access to facilities of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and for other purposes.

Status: Introduced in House

Introduced: July 17, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 4482 is to establish a moratorium on various actions that could limit access to facilities operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This includes prohibiting the closure, suspension, or termination of leases, as well as ceasing construction or consolidating facilities. The bill aims to ensure continued access to NOAA's resources and infrastructure, which are critical for environmental monitoring, research, and public services.

Key Provisions

• Moratorium on Facility Changes: The bill imposes a temporary halt on:

  • Closing or suspending NOAA facilities.
  • Terminating leases associated with NOAA operations.
  • Ceasing construction of NOAA facilities.
  • Consolidating existing facilities.
  • Any new limitations on access to NOAA facilities.

• Duration of Moratorium: The specific duration of the moratorium is not defined in the bill text, indicating that it may be subject to future legislative action or review.

Affected Parties

• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA): The bill directly impacts NOAA by protecting its facilities and operations from potential budget cuts or administrative changes that could limit its effectiveness.

• Research and Environmental Monitoring Communities: Scientists, researchers, and environmentalists who rely on NOAA's data and facilities for climate research, weather forecasting, and marine resource management will benefit from the continued access to NOAA's resources.

• Public and Private Sector Stakeholders: Various stakeholders, including government agencies, educational institutions, and private organizations that collaborate with NOAA, will be affected by the preservation of NOAA's operational capabilities.

Legislative Process

• Committee Referrals: Upon introduction, HR 4482 was referred to the Committee on Natural Resources, as well as the Committees on Science, Space, and Technology, and Transportation and Infrastructure. Each committee will review the bill for provisions that fall within their jurisdiction.

• Next Steps: The timeline for further consideration and potential voting on the bill has not been specified. The Speaker of the House will determine the period for committee review.

Conclusion

HR 4482 seeks to safeguard the operational integrity of NOAA by preventing any actions that could limit access to its facilities. This bill reflects a commitment to maintaining robust environmental monitoring and research capabilities, which are essential for addressing climate change and managing natural resources effectively. The outcome of this bill will be closely watched by various stakeholders who depend on NOAA's services and infrastructure.