Congressional Subcommittee Examines Role Of Technology In Weather Forecasting
On July 17, 2025, the Subcommittee on Environment of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology held a hearing titled “Protecting Lives and Property: Harnessing Innovative Technologies to Enhance Weather Forecasting.” The hearing, chaired by Congressman Scott Franklin (R-FL-18), focused on how emerging technologies and private-sector collaboration are improving the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts.
Chairman Franklin opened the hearing by emphasizing the everyday importance of accurate weather forecasting for millions of Americans. “This morning’s hearing addresses a topic that affects hundreds of millions of Americans daily: the technological advancements that contribute to the enhancement of weather forecasting,” said Chairman Franklin. “A robust private sector that embraces and fosters various technologies and techniques is essential for our progress in all areas related to weather.”
The hearing builds on the foundation laid by the Committee in 2017, when Congress passed the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act—the first major weather legislation update since 1992. The Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump, authorized the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to initiate a pilot program for purchasing commercial weather data. The program has since proven to be a resounding success, driving innovation and strengthening the role of private-sector solutions in the nation’s weather enterprise.
This Committee has the foresight to address longstanding challenges within the National Weather Service. “As we continue to innovate, it is important that the investments we make have the most effective path to commercialization,” Franklin continued. “Fostering collaboration between NOAA, academic institutions, and the private sector enables the federal government to procure the most cost-effective information, resulting in services that maximize impact.”
StormQuant Highlights Advanced Technology Available To NOAA/NWS
The Committee is exploring the expansion of public-private partnerships in weather data and forecasting technologies. As part of this effort, StormQuant President Tristan Rizzi, Capt. SEAL, USN (Ret.), submitted written testimony to the Subcommittee in support of its mission. Click here to view the full testimony.
Committee Chairman and Congressman Brian Babin (Rep-TX-36), stressed that this conversation is both timely and necessary. “Less than two weeks ago, a flash flood in Central Texas tragically claimed 132 lives, including over 30 children, with more than 100 people still missing,” said Babin. “This tragedy is devastating—for the families of those who were lost, for the communities that sustained significant damage in a matter of minutes, and for the nation as a whole, many of whom, myself included, have generational ties to the area that was flooded.”
The Subcommittee supports a modernized, science-driven approach to weather prediction, with an emphasis on transparency, collaboration, and innovation. This will enhance the federal government’s ability to protect lives and property through improved weather forecasting capabilities.
