House Passes Bill to Formally Authorize NOAA and the Huntsville Weather Forecasting Office

House Passes Bill to Formally Authorize NOAA and the Huntsville Weather Forecasting Office

U.S. Representative Bud Cramer (Ala.-05) announced today that the House approved legislation by voice-vote to formally authorize the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to study, manage, and conserve the ocean and coastal resources of the United States.

President Nixon created NOAA in 1970 through an executive order to help coordinate all federal, non-military ocean management programs. In addition to its ocean and coastal responsibilities, NOAA, which operates as part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, manages the National Weather Service, including the Huntsville Weather Forecasting Office. Today's bill specifically directs the Commerce secretary to maintain the National Weather Service within NOAA.

"The WFO in Huntsville continues to be a vital and much needed component for our community," said Cramer. "It has significantly helped weather researchers and meteorologists better serve our area by more accurately predicting severe weather threats throughout the region, and helping emergency management personnel understand the landscape in a crisis.

"Although NOAA has operated for thirty-six years, Congress has never officially authorized the Agency or its programs. Today's bill formally grants NOAA its authority and enables the Huntsville WFO to continue its much needed services."

Today's bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.

http://cramer.house.gov/HoR/AL05/News/Press+Releases/2006/9-20-06+House+Passes+Bill+to+Formally+Authorize+NOAA+and+the+Huntsville+Weather+Forecasting+Office.htm