Modernization initiative

(a) In general In parallel to the activities under section 4, the Administrator shall, to the maximum extent practicable, enhance NOAA Weather Radio to ensure its capabilities and coverage remain valuable to the public. In carrying out this section, the Administrator shall— (1) upgrade telecommunications infrastructure to accelerate the transition of broadcasts to internet protocol-based communications over noncopper media; (2) accelerate software upgrades to the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System, or the relevant system successors, to implement partial county notifications and alerts; (3) consult with relevant stakeholders, including the private sector, to enhance accessibility and usability of NOAA Weather Radio data and feeds; (4) develop options, including satellite backup capability and commercial provider partnerships, for NOAA Weather Radio continuity in the event of Weather Forecast Office outages; (5) research and develop alternative options, including microwave capabilities, to transmit NOAA Weather Radio signals to transmitters that are remote or do not have internet protocol capability; and (6) transition critical applications to the Integrated Dissemination Program, or the relevant program successors. (b) Priority In carrying out subsection (a), the Administrator shall prioritize practices, capabilities, and technologies recommended in accordance with the assessment under subsection (c) to maximize accessibility, particularly in remote and underserved areas of the country. (c) Assessment for management and distribution Not later than 12 months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Administrator shall complete an assessment of access to NOAA Weather Radio. In conducting such assessment, the Administrator shall take into consideration and provide recommendations on the following: (1) The need for continuous, adequate, and operational real-time broadcasts of the NOAA Weather Radio in both urban and rural areas. (2) Solicited inputs from relevant stakeholders on the compatibility of NOAA Weather Radio data for third party platforms that provide online services, such as websites and mobile device applications, or deliver NOAA Weather Radio access. (3) Existing or new management systems that promote consistent, efficient, and compatible access to NOAA Weather Radio. (4) The ability of NOAA to aggregate real time broadcast feeds at one or more central locations. (5) Effective interagency coordination. (6) The potential effects of an electromagnetic pulse or geomagnetic disturbance on NOAA Weather Radio. (7) Any other function the Administrator determines necessary.