H.R. 3809: Weather Workforce Improvement Act

This bill, titled the Weather Workforce Improvement Act, aims to improve the staffing of the National Weather Service (NWS) by introducing measures that allow for quicker hiring of essential personnel. Here are the key points of the bill:

Purpose of the Bill

The bill emphasizes the importance of accurate and timely weather forecasting for public safety. It specifically identifies the roles of employees responsible for launching weather balloons as essential for maintaining effective weather services.

Direct Hire Authority

The bill grants the Director of the NWS the authority to appoint qualified individuals to critical positions rapidly. This bypasses some of the usual hiring restrictions under federal law. The positions that can be filled under this authority include:

• Meteorologists
• General physical scientists
• Hydrologists
• Computer specialists
• Electronic technicians
• Other critical roles related to equipment operations and maintenance

Time Limitation on Authority

The direct hiring authority granted by this bill will be effective for a limited time. It will either expire two years after the law is enacted or when all vacancies for critical positions have been filled, whichever comes first.

Designation as Public Safety Positions

The bill requires the Director of the Office of Personnel Management to officially designate the positions eligible for expedited hiring as related to public safety.

Workforce Assessments

The bill mandates the NWS to conduct ongoing assessments of its workforce. These assessments are intended to evaluate:

• The number of employees necessary for effective operations at forecasting offices
• Health and morale impacts on employees due to work schedules, particularly for those required to work rotating shifts

The assessments must be submitted to specific congressional committees and are designed to ensure the NWS is adequately staffed to protect lives and property while enhancing the national economy.

Contracting for Assessments

The Director of the NWS is also permitted to contract with private entities to conduct these assessments, which can include recommendations for improving working conditions and benefits related to shift work.

Clerical Changes

The bill makes some administrative changes to include the new workforce assessment section in the existing legislation related to the NWS.

Relevant Companies

• NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) - Although NOAA is not publicly traded, companies that provide technology and services to NWS might be indirectly affected by these changes.
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