Howard Lutnick, as Commerce Secretary, oversees efforts to monitor weather in the U.S., with implications for privatizing government weather forecasting. Recent natural disasters spotlight budget cuts at the National Weather Service and NOAA, agencies that provide vital weather information. This downsizing may facilitate privatization, risking accessibility for low-income individuals. Experts express concerns about losing public access to weather data, suggesting it could lead to a system where only those who can pay receive accurate forecasts. The administration's efforts to reduce government roles in forecasting have connections to business ties among Trump's appointed officials.
Privatization would diminish a central role the federal government has played in weather forecasting since the 1800s, which experts say poses a particular harm for those facing financial strain who may not be able to afford commercial weather data.
Rick Spinrad, who served as NOAA administrator under President Joe Biden, emphasized concerns about privatization, questioning whether weather products would only be available to those who can afford them.
The downsizing at the National Weather Service and NOAA demonstrates an effort to privatize government functions, benefiting private companies linked to administration officials.
Budget cuts and staff reductions at government weather monitoring agencies have been spotlighted by recent natural disasters, highlighting the risks involved in the ongoing privatization push.
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