U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), a member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, has joined with Senators Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) to introduce the NOAA Weather Modernization Act. The proposed legislation aims to update weather radio equipment to improve the reliability of emergency communications during severe weather events and increase nationwide access to critical warnings. Additional cosponsors include Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Gary Peters (D-Mich.).
Senator Moran said, “Recent severe weather across the country is a grave reminder of the need for a modernized emergency weather alert system,” adding, “This legislation would improve alert systems in rural parts of the country with limited access to mobile broadband service, emergency warning systems or satellite coverage. It incorporates part of my legislation, the FORECAST Act, to protect critical National Weather Service employees from federal hiring freezes. It is essential that weather forecasting offices in every corner of the nation remain staffed so Kansans and all Americans have access to accurate, life-saving, 24/7 forecasting coverage.”
Senator Cruz commented on recent flooding: “The flooding in Central Texas has been absolutely heartbreaking, and we continue to lift up all those affected in prayer,” he said. “Texans are strong and resourceful, but when disaster is about to strike, there has to be multiple, reliable ways to notify those who are in harm’s way. While the Hill Country flood investigation continues, we do know that some people did not receive the warnings because of a lack of cell phone coverage. I am grateful to join Ranking Member Cantwell in introducing this legislation to modernize early warning systems and ensure that every American, especially those in areas with poor or no cellular service, aren’t kept in the dark when it matters the most. This legislation is about protecting our communities and saving lives, and I urge Congress to pass it quickly.”
The bill proposes several measures including expanding coverage for regions lacking cellular service; amplifying non-weather emergency messages; providing more transmitters for areas with weak or nonexistent cell service; and directing the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to set standards for flash flood emergency alerts within 100-year floodplains.
NOAA operates over 750 NOAA Weather Radio stations with more than 1,000 transmitters covering all U.S. states and territories. These radios broadcast weather updates and local hazard information from nearby National Weather Service offices. They play an important role during emergencies as they often provide vital information when other forms of communication may be unavailable.
In many rural or remote locations where internet or mobile services are unreliable or absent, radio remains a primary source for receiving hazard warnings. Radios can also be used during power outages caused by storms or tornadoes when cell phones or computers may not function properly.
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