National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Organic Act

Summary

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Organic Act - Title I: Declaration of Findings, Purposes, and Policies - Declares this Act's purpose to be to establish the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as an independent agency. Enumerates features of U.S. policy with respect to civil oceanic, coastal, and atmospheric activities and programs and their administration. Title II: Establishment; Officers; Functions; and Powers - Establishes the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) as an independent executive branch agency to succeed the same-named entity currently under the jurisdiction of the Department of Commerce. Identifies as principal officers of the NOAA the Administrator, Deputy Administrator, and Chief Scientist, all to be appointed by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate. Assigns to the Administrator the functions and duties of current principals of NOAA, along with a series of additional responsibilities relating to: (1) analyzing the oceans, the atmosphere, and their resources; (2) gathering and disseminating information and maps; (3) conducting research, including environmental research and development activities; and (4) assisting in policy development with respect to coastal, ocean, and atmospheric programs. Empowers the Administrator to perform actions concomitant with administering a Federal agency. Establishes a working capital fund to carry out NOAA activities. Authorizes user charges in connection with paperwork processed or provided by NOAA. Requires NOAA financial assistance recipients to keep records for audit examination by the Administrator and by the Comptroller General. Title III: Coordination - Directs: (1) the Administrator to consult and cooperate with other Federal agency heads in connection with both domestic and international concerns and activities; and (2) other Government officials to consult with the Administrator with respect to international agreements involving NOAA functions. Title IV: Enforcement - Enumerates the Administrator's powers and authorities with respect to enforcing laws within NOAA jurisdiction. Title V: Transfer of Functions; Personnel and Administrative Provisions; and Miscellaneous Provisions - Transfers to the Administrator all duties and functions currently assigned to Department of Commerce personnel in connection with NOAA. Provides for the transfer of personnel and for continuity in NOAA's administrative activities. Directs the President to submit biennial funding requests for NOAA to specified congressional leadership by March 15 annually.

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1 official file

• Introduced in House

  summary · EN · 14 July 1988

  Open at official source

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