Weather Radar Coverage Improvement Act
Sponsored By: Representative Crawford
Introduced
Summary
Modernize and replace the NEXRAD radar network to boost coverage and severe-weather detection. The bill would require a replacement plan that includes estimated coverage and accuracy improvements, a prototype digital phased array radar, a phased array testbed to evaluate commercial and gap-filling systems, and a Radar-as-a-Service option to contract private providers to fill gaps by September 30, 2040.
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- Families and local communities: Communities that currently lack radar coverage could get earlier and wider detection of heavy precipitation and severe storms, improving warnings and response.
- Emergency managers and public safety officials: They would be consulted on specifications and gain technical assistance and new tools like small gap-filling radars and weather cameras.
- Private radar and technology firms: Companies could test phased array and commercial systems in the testbed and compete for Radar-as-a-Service contracts to supply coverage.
- National Weather Service and the Under Secretary: The Under Secretary, with the National Weather Service director, would have to produce the plan, build the prototype and testbed, and provide periodic updates to Congress.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Upgrade national weather radar by 2040
If enacted, the government would plan and carry out a full replacement of the NEXRAD weather radar system by September 30, 2040. The plan would estimate improvements in coverage and accuracy and seek input from meteorologists and emergency managers. It would build a prototype digital phased array radar and create a testbed to set the new system’s specs. The testbed would review commercial radars and help small gap‑filling radars where mountains block coverage. The Weather Service could contract Radar‑as‑a‑Service providers and use weather cameras to fill gaps, with priority for testbed partners. The Under Secretary would send regular progress updates to Congress.
Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Crawford
AR • R
Cosponsors
Rep. Moran, Nathaniel [R-TX-1]
TX • R
Sponsored 2/7/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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