Data collection, management, and protection

(a) Data collection The Under Secretary may collect social, behavioral, and economic data, including data relating to Federal communication of hazardous weather or water events and the public response to such communications. Where appropriate, the Under Secretary shall encourage the collection of secondary data, purchase data, or partner with the private sector to obtain data. (b) Data management The Under Secretary shall establish and maintain a central repository system for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for data related to the communication of and related public response to hazardous weather or water events, including data developed or received pursuant to this title. (c) Protection of data The Under Secretary shall ensure that data is collected, managed, and used by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration in accordance with legal, regulatory, and contractual obligations, including chapter 31 of title 44, United States Code, and the Foundations for Evidence-Based Policymaking Act of 2018 (Public Law 115–435). (d) Digital watermarking The Under Secretary shall develop methods to reduce the likelihood of unauthorized tampering with online public notifications of hazardous weather or water events, such as developing digital watermarks. (e) Policies and procedures The Under Secretary shall establish policies and procedures for the collection, archiving, and managing of data related to community response, including the response of affected populations, to hazardous weather or water events.