Exempt essential National Weather Service employees from federal hiring freezes?

Government Operations (e.g., Election Laws) Science and Technology
FORECAST Act (S. 1958)
Awaiting Vote
Bill Summary

This bill, also known as the Federal Operational Resilience in Emergency Conditions And Storm Tracking (FORECAST) Act, provides an exemption for covered positions under the National Weather Service against federal government hiring freezes, including those established from executive orders or memorandums. These “covered positions” include meteorologists, hydrologists, electronics technicians, and other roles deemed necessary for public safety, as they are essential in announcing weather and flood warnings, protecting life and property from weather-related incidents, and preserving valuable observational equipment. In addition, this bill will restore job offers rescinded after January 20, 2025, and require the NWS to send annual reports to Congress on staffing levels. Sponsor: Sen. Jerry Moran (Republican, Kansas)
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Opponents say

•      At the time of research and publication, no official opposing statements have been identified.  This does not mean that nobody opposes the bill, nor does it mean that opposing statements will not be made in the future. 

Proponents say

•      "Staffing National Weather Service offices, particularly in rural parts of the country, is a constant challenge, and recent staffing shortages have led to some offices, including in Kansas, being unable to provide 24/7 weather forecasting. As we work to install new technology and modernize the National Weather Service, it is important the NWS is able to continuously fill critical public safety roles as they become vacant to make certain communities across the country receive timely, accurate weather data." Source: Sen. Jerry Moran (Republican, Kansas), Chairman on the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies


•      "We know that … weather can change on a dime. That’s why we need a team of full-time meteorologists working around the clock to notify the public when extreme weather impacts the region. This bill would help protect 24/7 weather monitoring in the UP and ensure we keep our communities informed and protected." Source: Sen. Gary C. Peters (Democrat, Michigan), Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation

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