The U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology passed the NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act at a committee meeting on Wednesday.
As we reported, the legislation directs NOAA to “modernize and expand” the VHF weather radio network that serves the U.S., with $100 million for FY 2026 authorized.
It was introduced by committee Chairman Brian Babin (R-Texas) and has bipartisan support. Cosponsors include Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.), Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.) and Gabe Amo (D-R.I.).
There were four amendments to the act offered in the markup, and each was passed by voice vote.
An amendment from Rep. Matt Van Epps (R-Tenn.) specified that enhancement efforts are directed at “particularly transmitter equipment and antennas located in remote areas subjected to an elevated risk of severe weather events.”
The next step for the legislation is to move forward to the full House for a floor vote at a later date.
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