To ensure the uninterrupted storage of data sets of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 6184, the "NOAA Data Preservation Act," aims to ensure the uninterrupted storage of data sets of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It restricts the Secretary of Commerce from canceling contracts with cloud service providers for data storage unless specific conditions are met. These conditions include developing a plan for uninterrupted data storage and collaborating with the NOAA Administrator to ensure data protection during transitions.
Expected Effects
This bill will likely lead to greater stability and reliability in NOAA's data storage. It mandates a transition plan before contract cancellation, potentially preventing data loss or disruption. This could result in more consistent access to critical environmental data for researchers, policymakers, and the public.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continuous access to NOAA's data sets, which are crucial for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and other scientific endeavors.
- Requires a well-defined transition plan before changing cloud service providers, minimizing the risk of data loss or corruption.
- Promotes collaboration between the Secretary of Commerce and the NOAA Administrator, fostering a more coordinated approach to data management.
- Could lead to improved data security and resilience through the implementation of robust storage and backup systems.
- Supports informed decision-making in areas such as disaster preparedness, resource management, and environmental policy.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit the Secretary of Commerce's flexibility in choosing the most cost-effective or technologically advanced data storage solutions.
- Could potentially increase costs if the required transition plan is overly burdensome or complex.
- The definition of "cloud service provider" relies on existing legislation, which may not fully address future technological developments.
- The bill's focus on uninterrupted storage might overshadow other important aspects of data management, such as data quality and accessibility.
- Potential for bureaucratic delays in implementing the transition plan, hindering the adoption of new technologies.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the constitutional mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to legislate in areas related to science and technology, as necessary and proper for executing its enumerated powers (Article I, Section 8). The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).