Proposed Bill Would Upgrade NWS Communications Network

All four Iowans who serve in the U.S. House have introduced a bill that would upgrade the communications network for the National Weather Service. 

Damage to a fiber optic cable at a Weather Service office in Texas delayed warnings during last month’s deadly tornado outbreak in Iowa. 

Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson of Marion says every second matters during severe weather. She says the National Weather Service must have a functional and reliable communications system. 

The bill seeks to simplify, update and improve forecasting technology and infrastructure.