Bill introduced asking for $2.35 billion to improve hurricane research
Jan 9, 2009
South Florida Sun-Sentinel–January 8, 2009
By Ken Kaye
U.S. Representatives Alcee L. Hastings, D-Miramar, and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, R-Miami, today introduced a bill authorizing $2.35 billion to improve hurricane research.
The funding would help scientists better understand how hurricanes form and intensify.
It also would enhance early warning systems, and hurricane tracking and prediction capabilities, the congressmen said.
“The current federal investment in hurricane research is shameful in contrast to our nation’s increasing vulnerability,” Hastings said in a statement. “This legislation will ensure improved coordinated research to fill the gaps in our hurricane knowledge.”
Ros-Lehtinen added, “As a State and as a nation, we are woefully unprepared to handle the sometimes devastating consequences of hurricanes and their aftermath.”
The National Hurricane Research Initiative Act of 2009 takes into account the general recommendations of the National Science Board, a 24-member independent advisory body to the President and Congress on national science and engineering issues.