National Weather Service Communications Improvement Act

Hozzl · 2024-02-05T17:45:17Z

Explore the details of Senate Bill 1414 National Weather Service Communications Improvement Act currently in Congress. Get insights into its purpose, current status, sponsors, and potential impact on Science, Technology, Communications. Stay informed on legislative developments.

2/5/2024, 5:45 PM

Summary of Bill S 1414

The National Weather Service Communications Improvement Act, also known as Bill 118 s 1414, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The purpose of this bill is to improve the communication capabilities of the National Weather Service (NWS) in order to better inform and protect the public during severe weather events.

One of the key provisions of the bill is the establishment of a pilot program to test the use of new technologies, such as social media and mobile apps, for disseminating weather information. This program aims to determine the effectiveness of these tools in reaching a wider audience and providing timely and accurate updates during emergencies.

Additionally, the bill calls for the modernization of the NWS's communication infrastructure, including upgrading equipment and systems to ensure reliable and efficient transmission of weather data. This will help to improve the accuracy of forecasts and warnings, ultimately leading to better preparedness and response to severe weather events. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the importance of collaboration between the NWS and other federal, state, and local agencies, as well as private sector partners, in order to enhance the coordination and dissemination of weather information. By working together, these entities can ensure that the public receives consistent and reliable updates during emergencies. Overall, the National Weather Service Communications Improvement Act seeks to enhance the communication capabilities of the NWS in order to better protect the public from the dangers of severe weather. By investing in new technologies, modernizing infrastructure, and promoting collaboration, this legislation aims to improve the accuracy and timeliness of weather information, ultimately saving lives and reducing the impact of natural disasters.

Congressional Summary of S 1414

National Weather Service Communications Improvement Act

This bill requires the National Weather Service (NWS) to replace NWSChat with a commercial, off-the-shelf communications solution that is hosted on the public cloud. (NWSChat is an instant messaging program used by NWS personnel to share, in real-time, critical warnings and other types of weather information.)

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Current Status of Bill S 1414

Bill S 1414 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since May 3, 2023. Bill S 1414 was introduced during Congress 118 and was introduced to the Senate on May 3, 2023. Bill S 1414's most recent activity was Held at the desk. as of December 22, 2023

Bipartisan Support of Bill S 1414

Total Number of Sponsors

Democrat Sponsors

Republican Sponsors

Unaffiliated Sponsors

Total Number of Cosponsors

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Republican Cosponsors

Unaffiliated Cosponsors

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill S 1414

Primary Policy Focus

Science, Technology, Communications

Potential Impact Areas

Atmospheric science and weather

Alternate Title(s) of Bill S 1414

National Weather Service Communications Improvement ActNational Weather Service Communications Improvement ActNational Weather Service Communications Improvement ActNational Weather Service Communications Improvement ActA bill to improve the instant messaging service used by the National Weather Service, and for other purposes.

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