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Committee advances bill directing NOAA to improve coastal fog forecasting
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Summary
The House Science Committee reported HR 3705, the Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting Act, asking NOAA to expand marine observations and improve fog modeling and advisories; members cited economic disruptions at Port Houston and other ports.
The House Science, Space, and Technology Committee on Thursday favorably reported HR 3705, the Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting (FOG) Act, directing NOAA to develop a targeted project to improve coastal marine fog observations, modeling and advisories.
Chairman Babin said fog disrupted traffic at Port Houston several times earlier this year and attributed “billions in economic losses” to dense fog impacts on one of the nation's busiest ports. The bill tasks NOAA with increasing marine-based observations, improving marine fog modeling accuracy, enhancing advisory communications and supplying decision-support services for port operators and risk managers.
Ranking Member Lofgren, a co-sponsor, told the committee that marine fog forecasting requires more observations, better modeling and clearer communication, noting that fog also affects inland roads and airport operations. Representative Bonamici, who represents Oregon’s North Coast and the Port of Astoria, said accurate forecasts are critical for commercial fishing, tourism and community safety in her district.
Supporters said the bill calls for expanded use of remote sensing, improved stakeholder outreach and a project plan laying out research, technology transfer, resources and timelines. Several members reiterated concerns about staffing and funding at NOAA; both Lofgren and other members urged appropriations and support in parallel with the new statutory direction.
No amendments were adopted during markup. Chairman Babin moved that the committee report HR 3705 to the House with a favorable recommendation; the committee later reported the bill favorably (35 ayes, 0 nays). The bill has a Senate companion, supporters said.
Committee staff were authorized to make technical and conforming changes before the bill is transmitted to the House; members were given two calendar days to submit supplemental views.
