NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act

The NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act mandates the expansion and modernization of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) weather radio system. It requires the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere to maintain a nationwide, 24/7, and resilient NOAA Weather Radio network that broadcasts critical weather, emergency, and geological hazard information, ensuring reliability for existing systems, especially in areas with poor cellular service. A key provision is the modernization initiative , which aims to expand coverage and improve the communication of hazardous weather risks. This includes acquiring additional transmitters for high-risk areas, communities lacking broadband or other warning systems, and federal lands, while also enhancing the ability to amplify non-weather emergency messages through the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) and exploring new dissemination capabilities via satellite or internet protocols. The bill requires an assessment of NOAA Weather Radio access within one year to inform modernization priorities, focusing on maximizing accessibility in vulnerable regions. It authorizes $20 million annually for operations and $100 million for modernization and assessment efforts. Additionally, the Act allows for the development of national standards for flash flood emergency alert systems in 100-year floodplains, specifically catering to underserved communities. It also addresses National Weather Service staffing by reclassifying certain positions as "protective service occupations" and grants the NWS Director temporary direct hire authority for critical public safety roles, such as meteorologists and hydrologists, to fill identified vacancies.