Polk Times

Congressman Scott Franklin, chairman of the Environment Subcommittee on the House Science, Space and Technology Committee, announced that the committee has advanced the Weather Act Reauthorization Act of 2025. The bipartisan bill is intended to strengthen weather forecasting systems in the United States. Franklin played a key role in developing the legislation, which includes elements from his previously introduced TAME Extreme Weather and Wildfires Act.

The proposed law aims to modernize NOAA’s forecasting by increasing use of artificial intelligence, improving hurricane and tornado prediction, enhancing emergency communications, and building partnerships with private companies for faster and more reliable information during severe weather events.

“NOAA plays a critical role in keeping Americans safe when severe weather strikes,” Franklin said. “With hurricane season underway, Floridians know all too well the need for forecasts they can trust. This bill ensures NOAA has the tools and technology to deliver accurate, timely information that helps families prepare, protects farmers’ crops, and gives first responders the warnings they need when every second counts.”

The legislation provides support for Florida’s agricultural producers and conservation partners through continued investment in resources such as the Drought Information System, Soil Moisture Monitoring Network, and National Mesonet. These programs are designed to help protect crops, conserve water resources, and increase resilience against future environmental challenges.

This reauthorization is the first since 2017 for NOAA’s forecasting modernization efforts. The new act seeks to expand on earlier improvements by incorporating artificial intelligence provisions inspired by Franklin’s previous legislative work.

Franklin has represented Florida’s 18th congressional district since 2021 after succeeding Ross Spano. Before serving in Congress he was a member of the Florida House of Representatives. He was born in Thomaston, Georgia in 1964 and now resides in Lakeland. Franklin graduated from the United States Naval Academy with a BA in 1986 and later from Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University in 1994.

The bill will next be considered on the House floor.