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HR 5089

Weather Act Reauthorization Act of 2025

119th Congress Introduced by Gabe Amo and 24 co-sponsors

HR 5089 enhances weather forecasting and research, improving public safety and agricultural practices through better data, communication, and advanced technologies.

Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
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Bill Summary · HR 5089

Summary of HR 5089: Weather Act Reauthorization Act of 2025

Overview

The Weather Act Reauthorization Act of 2025 (HR 5089) aims to reauthorize and enhance the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017. This legislation focuses on improving weather forecasting, research, and public safety related to weather events. Introduced on September 2, 2025, the bill is currently under consideration by the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology and the Committee on Natural Resources.

Main Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of HR 5089 is to advance the United States' capabilities in weather research and forecasting. This includes improving the accuracy of forecasts, enhancing public safety measures, and fostering innovation in meteorological services. The bill seeks to address various weather-related challenges, including hurricanes, tornadoes, tsunamis, and agricultural impacts due to climate variability.

Key Provisions

The bill is structured into several titles, each addressing different aspects of weather research and forecasting:

Title I: Reauthorization of the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017

  • Public Safety Priority: Establishes weather-related public safety as a key focus.
  • Research Programs: Reauthorizes programs like VORTEX (Verification of the Origins of Rotation in Tornadoes Experiment) and the Hurricane Forecast Improvement Program.
  • Tsunami and Landslide Preparedness: Reauthorizes the Tsunami Warning and Education Act and the National Landslide Preparedness Act.
  • Observing Systems: Enhances planning and simulation for weather observation systems.

Title II: Enhancing Federal Weather Forecasting and Innovation

  • Next Generation Radar: Invests in advanced radar technologies.
  • Data Voids: Addresses gaps in weather data in vulnerable areas.
  • Coastal Flooding Programs: Improves forecasting for coastal flooding and storm surges.

Title III: Commercial Weather and Environmental Observations

  • Commercial Data Programs: Establishes programs for commercial weather data collection and sharing.
  • Contracting Authority: Streamlines contracting processes to avoid duplication of efforts.

Title IV: Communicating Weather to the Public

  • Risk Communication: Enhances communication strategies for hazardous weather events.
  • NOAA Weather Radio Modernization: Updates the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's weather radio systems.

Title V: Improving Weather Information for Agriculture and Water Management

  • Drought Information System: Strengthens the National Integrated Drought Information System.
  • Soil Moisture Monitoring: Establishes a National Coordinated Soil Moisture Monitoring Network.

Who Would Be Affected?

The bill would impact various stakeholders, including:
- Federal Agencies: Such as NOAA and the National Weather Service, which would receive enhanced resources and mandates.
- Agricultural Sector: Farmers and agricultural businesses would benefit from improved weather data and forecasting.
- Public Safety Officials: Enhanced communication and forecasting capabilities would aid in disaster preparedness and response.

Procedural Aspects

  • Committee Actions: The bill was ordered to be reported (amended) by voice vote on September 10, 2025, following a committee consideration and mark-up session.
  • Referred Committees: The bill has been referred to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and the Committee on Natural Resources for further review.

Conclusion

HR 5089 represents a significant legislative effort to bolster the United States' weather research and forecasting capabilities. By reauthorizing and expanding upon existing programs, the bill aims to enhance public safety, improve agricultural practices, and foster innovation in meteorological services. The ongoing committee discussions will shape the final form of the legislation as it moves forward.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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