Magaziner-Backed Bipartisan Bill to Reauthorize Ocean Weather Data Funding Advances
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Natural Resources Committee Wednesday unanimously passed legislation to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for five more fiscal years.
Magaziner, a Member of the House Natural Resources Committee, is a co-sponsor of the legislation and worked to pass the reauthorization for the program that collects and distributes critical ocean data to support the fishing industry, improve weather prediction, enhance shipping safety, and strengthen military readiness. The bipartisan legislation was introduced by Rep. Magaziner’s Natural Resources Committee colleague, Rep. Ezell (MS-04).
“The Integrated Ocean Observing System provides vital ocean data that supports fishermen and other hard working Americans who make their living from the ocean,” Magaziner said. “I am proud to help lead this bipartisan effort to reauthorize IOOS and ensure that this critical program continues to serve coastal communities across the country.”
“IOOS is essential to keeping coastal economies strong and resilient, especially in Mississippi,” said Rep. Mike Ezell (MS-04). “This reauthorization ensures we maintain vital ocean monitoring resources while modernizing the program to maximize its impact. Enhanced ocean data collection also improves hurricane forecasting and severe weather preparedness, which can save lives and reduce costly storm damage. I’m proud to lead this legislation as it will support jobs, commerce, and our nation’s leadership in ocean science. I look forward to seeing it come to the House floor for a vote in the near future.”
Magaziner has been a consistent supporter of the IOOS program. Last week, following advocacy from Magaziner and Reps. Chelli Pingree and Gabe Amo, the Trump Administration released funding it previously withheld for the IOOS program. You can read the full letter Magaziner and his colleagues led to the administration here.
The bill’s passage out of committee marks a significant step toward continued federal support for ocean observation infrastructure that underpins economic, environmental, and public safety benefits across the nation.