House Science Committee Advances NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act

The U.S. House Committee on Science, Space and Technology passed the NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act during a committee meeting on Wednesday.

The legislation directs the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to “modernize and expand” the VHF weather radio network that serves the United States, with $100 million authorized for fiscal year 2026.

The bill was introduced by Committee Chairman Brian Babin (R-Texas) and enjoys bipartisan support. Cosponsors include Reps. Mike Flood (R-Neb.), Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.), Stephanie Bice (R-Okla.), and Gabe Amo (D-R.I.).

During the markup, four amendments were offered and all were approved by voice vote. One amendment, proposed by Rep. Matt Van Epps (R-Tenn.), specifies that modernization efforts focus on “particularly transmitter equipment and antennas located in remote areas subjected to an elevated risk of severe weather events.”

The legislation will now move to the full House for a floor vote at a later date.