H.R. 4073: Tsunami Warning, Research, and Education Act of 2025

This bill, titled the Tsunami Warning, Research, and Education Act of 2025, aims to reauthorize and enhance existing legislation related to tsunami warnings and education. The following are the key provisions and amendments proposed in the bill:

Reauthorization of the Tsunami Warning and Education Act

• The bill seeks to reauthorize the Tsunami Warning and Education Act originally enacted in 2006, which facilitates the federal government's efforts in tsunami warning and safety measures.
• It emphasizes the importance of research in the context of tsunami warnings, reflecting a broader commitment to understanding tsunami risks.

Enhanced Warning and Forecasting Programs

• The bill mandates improvements in tsunami forecasting capabilities, specifically by establishing best practices in operational conditions.
• It stresses the inclusion of real-time data systems and the integration of the global navigation satellite system (GNSS) for improved monitoring and early warning.
• It includes provisions for managing data to ensure its quality and availability for research, operations, and public education.

National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program

• The act enhances the National Tsunami Hazard Mitigation Program by requiring the organization of hazard assessments and updates to tsunami inundation maps.
• It introduces a requirement for evaluating the impact of tsunami-driven sediment transport and debris on critical infrastructure.

Public Education and Awareness

• A significant focus is placed on educating coastal communities about tsunami risks and preparedness measures.
• The bill calls for a review of outgoing tsunami alert systems and evaluates their effectiveness in encouraging timely public response.

Research and Development

• The bill promotes research related to tsunami detection and predictions, particularly addressing tsunamis not solely driven by seismic events.
• It establishes a plan for developing new tools and models to enhance tsunami forecasting and response capabilities.
• The legislation encourages collaboration with various federal agencies, educational institutions, and private entities to improve research coordination.

Funding Authorization

• The bill authorizes $32 million annually from 2026 to 2030 for the implementation of the act, with specified percentages allocated towards state-level hazard mitigation activities and tsunami research.

Collaboration and Data Sharing

• The act emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among various agency directors, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States Geological Survey (USGS), NASA, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) to ensure comprehensive tsunami monitoring and warnings.
• It aims for consistent data sharing and administrative responsibilities to improve overall tsunami response strategies.

In summary, the Tsunami Warning, Research, and Education Act of 2025 aims to strengthen the United States' preparedness for tsunamis through enhanced warning systems, improved research capabilities, public education, and inter-agency collaboration.

Relevant Companies

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