Weather and Earth System Modeling and Data Assimilation Workforce Innovation Program

https://www.govinfo.gov/app/details/BILLS-119s1484is

Sec. 415. Weather and Earth System Modeling and Data Assimilation Workforce Innovation Program

Section 415 of Public Law 115–25, which was enacted as a part of the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017, creates the Weather and Earth System Modeling and Data Assimilation Workforce Innovation Program.

Program Purpose

The purpose of this program is to improve the quality and preparedness of the workforce in weather forecasting, climate modeling, and data assimilation. The program aims to foster innovation in these areas by providing funding for research and development, as well as promoting collaboration between academia, industry, and government.

Key Provisions

1. Authorizes the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmospheric Research to provide grants and fellowships to support research and education in weather forecasting, climate modeling, and data assimilation.
2. Establishes a fellowship program to support advanced research and development in these areas.
3. Requires the Under Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress on the effectiveness and impact of the program's funding.

Definitions

The following definitions apply to this section:

(Congress) : The Congress of the United States.

(Institution of higher education) : An institution providing a primary, secondary, or postsecondary educational program that is approved or licensed by an accrediting agency. (20 U.S.C. 1001)

(Nonprofit entity) : A non-profit corporation organized under the laws of any State or the United States.

(Oceans and Atmospheric Research) : The Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmospheric Research, or the Under Secretary's designee.

Authorization of Appropriations

The Under Secretary is authorized to provide sums as necessary to carry out this program.