NWR Modernization Act of 2023

NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act of 2023 or the NWR Modernization Act of 2023

This bill requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to expand and enhance the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR), which is a nationwide network of radio stations that broadcast continuous weather information from the National Weather Service.

NOAA must expand coverage of the NWR and ensure its reliability by

• maintaining support for systems that serve areas that lack or have poor quality cellular service;
• ensuring consistent maintenance of broadcast equipment;
• strengthening the ability of the NWR to amplify non-weather emergency messages; and
• acquiring additional transmitters to expand coverage to rural and underserved communities, national parks, and recreation areas.

NOAA must also assess methods for enhancing the NWR, such as broadcasting continuously and in real time and making the NWR compatible with third-party platforms (e.g., websites and mobile applications). Prioritizing recommendations from the assessment, NOAA must further enhance the NWR, including by (1) upgrading telecommunications infrastructure to expedite the transition to internet-based broadcasts, and (2) researching means to transmit NWR signals to remote transmitters or those that do not have internet capabilities.

Bill 118 hr 1482, also known as the NWR Modernization Act of 2023, aims to update and improve the operations of the National Weather Service (NWS) within the United States. The bill focuses on modernizing the technology and infrastructure used by the NWS to provide more accurate and timely weather forecasts and warnings to the public.

One key aspect of the bill is the allocation of funding for the NWS to upgrade its weather forecasting equipment, including radar systems and satellite technology. This will allow the NWS to better track and predict severe weather events such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and winter storms, ultimately helping to save lives and protect property.

Additionally, the NWR Modernization Act of 2023 includes provisions to improve communication and coordination between the NWS and other government agencies, as well as with private sector partners. This will help ensure that critical weather information is shared efficiently and effectively, leading to better preparedness and response efforts during weather emergencies. Overall, the NWR Modernization Act of 2023 seeks to enhance the capabilities of the NWS in providing accurate and timely weather forecasts and warnings to the American public. By investing in modern technology and improving coordination with other agencies, the bill aims to strengthen the nation's ability to respond to severe weather events and protect the safety and well-being of its citizens.