At a Senate Commerce Committee executive session, Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) discussed the importance of improving weather warning systems in light of recent natural disasters. He referenced the flash flooding in Texas that resulted in over 130 deaths and highlighted the need for better emergency notification, especially for those living in areas with limited cell service.
Cruz announced plans to introduce legislation aimed at modernizing weather warning systems. He also noted the role of nominees for positions at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including Neil Jacobs as Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, in enhancing disaster response capabilities.
He stated, “Weeks ago, Texas was hit with catastrophic flash flooding that claimed over 130 lives. It was a sobering reminder of man’s fragility in the face of Mother Nature—and of the need to prepare for the next storm. Just last night, tsunami alerts were issued across the Pacific following a massive 8.8 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Russia. The employees of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the National Weather Service play a critical role in forecasting and emergency notification for these rapid-onset events.”
Cruz expressed confidence that Jacobs and Taylor Jordan, another nominee for NOAA, would help improve response systems. He said he hoped they would have more resources available: “I believe Mr. Jacobs and Taylor Jordan, who will also be reported out this morning for a top role at NOAA, will improve our systems to better respond to such disasters. My hope is that they’ll have more resources at their disposal: Ranking Member Cantwell and I will soon introduce legislation to modernize NOAA weather radio warning systems and ensure that every American, especially those in areas with poor cell service, aren’t left in the dark when it matters the most.”
The committee also considered several pieces of legislation during its session. Among them was Cruz’s bipartisan Space Exploration Research Act, which supports workforce development in space-related fields by allowing NASA centers to collaborate with states, universities, or nonprofits on unused facilities.
Other bills included efforts to address shark depredation through the SHARKED Act—establishing a task force to find solutions so fishermen can land their catch before sharks intervene—and measures designed to strengthen U.S. competitiveness against China in advanced manufacturing by aligning federal programs with national strategies.
Regarding changes to the markup agenda, Cruz explained that consideration of the Traveler Privacy Protection Act would be postponed due to requests from some members for additional information about its provisions.
Cruz concluded by noting time constraints due to other scheduled votes but anticipated advancing several nominees during this session.
