S. 3923 · On the floor · Public Lands and Natural Resources

Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Reauthorization Act of 2026

Sponsor: Ted Cruz (R-TX)

What it does

• Reauthorizes weather research and forecasting programs at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to improve accuracy of operational forecasts and transition advancements into forecasting services.
• Establishes commercial data programs to expand private-sector provision of weather data and observations, including pilot programs and contracting authority to avoid duplication.
• Directs NOAA to improve hurricane forecasts, tornado research, coastal flooding prediction, and atmospheric river forecasting through dedicated improvement programs.
• Creates a National Integrated Heat Health Information System, fire weather services program, and precipitation frequency estimates for landslide preparedness.

Latest action

Sep 28, 2026: Placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders. Calendar No. 685.

Committee: Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation