H.R.2646 - Radar Gap Elimination Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 2646, the Radar Gap Elimination Act, directs the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere to establish the Radar Next Program. This program aims to improve the weather radar network of the United States, including its territories. The Act mandates the development of a plan to replace the Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD) system by September 30, 2040, focusing on enhancing performance, coverage, and accuracy.
Expected Effects
The Act will likely lead to a modernized weather radar system. This will improve weather forecasting and severe weather detection. It also allows for partnerships with external entities for data gap filling.
Potential Benefits
- Improved weather forecasting and severe weather detection.
- Enhanced radar coverage, especially in areas with existing gaps.
- Stimulation of innovation in weather radar technology through collaboration with the weather enterprise.
- Potential for cost-effective solutions through radar-as-a-service partnerships.
- Better preparedness for extreme weather events, leading to increased public safety.
Potential Disadvantages
- The Act's implementation relies on the Under Secretary of Commerce, potentially leading to bureaucratic delays.
- The long implementation timeline (until 2040) may delay the realization of benefits.
- Potential for cost overruns associated with developing and deploying new radar systems.
- Possible disruptions during the transition from the existing NEXRAD system to the new system.
- Dependence on external entities for radar-as-a-service could create vulnerabilities.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act aligns with the Constitution's mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble) by improving public safety through better weather forecasting. Congress's power to regulate commerce (Article I, Section 8) provides a basis for federal involvement in weather monitoring and prediction, as it affects interstate commerce and transportation. The Act does not appear to infringe upon 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).