This bill asks NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) to modernize and improve the NOAA Weather Radio network, which is a system of radio stations across the country that broadcast weather information and emergency alerts 24 hours a day. Right now, this network reaches most people, but it has gaps—especially in rural areas and communities that are harder to serve. The bill requires NOAA to fix these problems by repairing equipment that's broken or outdated, adding new equipment where needed, updating software, and exploring alternative ways to send weather information (like through internet or mobile apps). The bill also requires NOAA to study how well the current system works and figure out what improvements would help the most people get timely weather warnings and forecasts. Essentially, this is about making sure that no matter where you live—whether in a big city or a remote rural area—you can reliably receive critical weather alerts and information that could help keep you safe during storms and other hazardous weather events.

NWR Modernization Act of 2023

Cantwell, Maria

NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act of 2023 or the NWR Modernization Act of 2023 This bill requires the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to update the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) network. (NWR is a nationwide network of radio stations that broadcasts weather information 24-7 from the nearest National Weather Service office, including weather warnings, watches, and forecasts.) Specifically, NOAA must update NWR to expand its coverage and support its reliability, particularly in rural and underserved communities, through timely repairs, additional equipment, software upgrades, alternative means of transmissions, and other system changes. NOAA must assess and report on access to the current system to identify potential improvements.