HR 2296
National Weather Service Communications Improvement Act
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Bill overview
This bill aims to improve the way the National Weather Service communicates internally. It requires the agency to replace its current instant messaging system, NWSChat, with a modern, cloud-based solution by October 2027. The new system must be able to handle future growth and be user-friendly for the agency’s staff. Funding of up to $3 million per year will be allocated to this upgrade through existing National Weather Service budgets.
Key provisions
- Replace the NWSChat instant messaging system.
- Implement a cloud-based communications solution.
- The solution must accommodate future growth and user numbers.
- The solution must be easy to use for most users.
- Funding of up to $3 million per year will be allocated for the upgrade.
Who is affected
- National Weather Service personnel
Notable changes
- Requires a shift from the existing NWSChat system.
- Mandates the use of a cloud-based solution.
Fiscal impact
Funding for the communications upgrade will be derived from existing National Weather Service budgets, totaling up to $15 million over four fiscal years.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Cosponsors
Aumua Amata Coleman [R-AS-At Large] Radewagen
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119th CONGRESS — 1st Session
H. R. 2296
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
A BILL
To upgrade the communications service used by the National Weather Service, and for other purposes.
This Act may be cited as the National Weather Service Communications Improvement Act
.
NWSChat.
The communications solution implemented under subsection (a) shall—
be hosted on the public cloud; and
satisfy requirements set forth by the Director of the National Weather Service to ensure such solution—
best accommodates future growth;
performs successfully with increased numbers of users;
is easy to use for the majority of users; and
is similar to systems already in commercial use.
From amounts made available for Operations, Research, and Facilities, the Director of the National Weather Service shall allocate up to $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2029 to carry out subsection (a).
Amounts made available to carry out subsection (a) shall be derived from amounts appropriated or otherwise made available to the National Weather Service.