NOAA Chief Scientist Act

NOAA Chief Scientist Act

This bill revises requirements concerning the qualifications and responsibilities of the Chief Scientist in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Specifically, the bill establishes new minimum qualification requirements for the position of the Chief Scientist. It also outlines new responsibilities of the Chief Scientist. For example, the Chief Scientist must follow NOAA's scientific integrity policies and ensure NOAA's employees and contractors adhere to the policies as well. In addition, the Chief Scientist must (1) provide policy and program direction for the science and technology priorities of NOAA, and (2) manage the Office of the Chief Scientist.

NOAA Chief Scientist Act

This bill sets forth the responsibilities of the Chief Scientist of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The President, in appointing the Chief Scientist, shall give due consideration to any recommendations for appointments which may be submitted by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the NOAA Science Advisory Board, or by other widely recognized and reputable scientific or educational organizations.

The Chief Scientist shall advise NOAA on cross-cutting science and technology policy and strategy.

Additionally, the Chief Scientist, among other responsibilities, shall

• provide policy and program direction for science and technology priorities at NOAA;
• facilitate integration and coordination of research efforts across NOAA line offices, with other federal agencies, and with the external scientific community;
• promote, communicate, and advocate for NOAA's science portfolio and strategy to the broad external and international community and Congress;
• represent NOAA in promoting and maintaining good public and community relations; and
• provide the widest practical and appropriate dissemination of information concerning the climate, weather, oceans, fisheries, and coasts.