Overview of Proposed Changes

An internal government document recently obtained by CBS News indicates a dramatic shift in funding for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), proposing a 25% reduction in its 2026 budget. This proposal primarily affects NOAA’s critical research functions.

Key Areas Affected

• Elimination of the Oceanic and Atmospheric Research office.
• Loss of funding for climate, weather, and ocean laboratories.
• Termination of several programs including cooperative institutes.

Purpose of the Proposed Cuts

The draft memo, labeled “pre-decisional” from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), aims to create a “leaner NOAA.” It asserts that the recommended funding levels would streamline operations, diminish bureaucratic overhead, and phase out non-essential grant programs. The overall budget would see a cut of approximately $1.672 billion from 2025 levels.

Implications of the Cuts

Discussions among current and former NOAA officials highlight the potentially devastating impact of these budget cuts. As noted by former NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, “When you cut the research, you cut the ability to improve the forecasts and the predictions.” This sentiment reflects concerns that such reductions could decrease the accuracy of critical services not only related to storms but also information vital for agricultural and insurance sectors.

Moreover, a current NOAA employee, who requested anonymity due to concerns about retaliation, expressed alarm at the implications for Earth systems research, describing it as essential for human survival.

Funding Status for Specific Areas

While funding for the National Weather Service is expected to remain unchanged, the proposed changes include relocating the Space Weather Prediction Center to the Department of Homeland Security. This center is crucial for monitoring solar flares and geomagnetic storms.

Responses from Lawmakers

Congressional Democrats have voiced strong opposition to the proposed budget cuts. Representative Zoe Lofgren of California stated, “Trump’s budget plan for NOAA is both outrageous and dangerous,” emphasizing the significance of NOAA’s Oceanic and Atmospheric Research office in fulfilling the agency’s mission to protect lives and property.

The Appeal Process

NOAA officials indicate a history of successfully contesting such proposals during the “passback” period with OMB. However, there are concerns that changes in administration may make this process more challenging moving forward. OMB spokeswoman Alexandra McCandless has stated that no final funding decisions have been made.

As of now, the White House has not provided any comments regarding the document.