Lucas-Bridenstine Weather Forecasting Bill Passes in House

Statement

Today, the House of Representatives unanimously approved H.R. 1561, the Lucas-Bridenstine Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2015. This legislation prioritizes the protection of lives and property.

"In Oklahoma, we know all too well the devastating effects of severe weather," said Congressman Jim Bridenstine. "The importance of accurate forecasts cannot be overstated. Our aim is to have zero deaths from tornadoes and other extreme weather events. This bill gets us closer to that day."

Congressman Bridenstine: "Weather forecasting is not a partisan issue. I am grateful to my House colleagues for recognizing the importance of improving our understanding of weather in order to better safeguard our constituents." Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith: "Severe weather routinely affects large portions of the United States. This year we have already seen the devastating effects of tornadoes across our country. I commend Rep. Bridenstine for his leadership on this issue and thank him for sponsoring this important bill to increase forecast warning lead times for tornadoes and hurricanes. The enhanced prediction of major storms will help protect the public from injury and loss of property." Bridenstine commented on the path forward for the legislation, "Last week, the Senate also introduced weather legislation. I am glad they are beginning to look at an issue the House has been working on for a few years now. I look forward to working with our Senate counterparts and encourage them to take up H.R. 1561 so that we can send legislation to the President's desk, setting in motion improvements needed to better predict weather and save lives and property."

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