Bill > S1278

This bill, called the Fog Observations and Geographic Forecasting Act, directs the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere to conduct a comprehensive project aimed at improving coastal marine fog forecasts. The project's primary goals are to enhance vessel safety and reduce economic impacts of marine fog events by expanding observation methods and technologies, which include using buoys, meteorological stations, vessels, unmanned systems, remote sensing technologies like hyperspectral satellite imagery, and advanced data analysis algorithms. The project will focus on increasing marine-based observations, improving geographic coverage and accuracy of marine fog modeling, enhancing communication of marine fog advisories by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), effectively communicating fog-related risks to the public, and providing actionable decision support services. The Under Secretary is required to engage with both public and private stakeholders, as well as Indian tribes, during the project's planning and implementation. Within one year of the Act's enactment, the Under Secretary must develop a detailed project plan that outlines specific research, development, technology transfer activities, resources, and timelines necessary to achieve these objectives.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/1278/all-info