Statement of Mary E. Kicza, NESDIS Assistant Administrator, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Hearing on 'Dysfunction in Management of Weather and Climate Satellites'

摘要

I will conclude by reaffirming that the NOAA-NASA partnership is strong and is supporting the good progress that the GOES-R Series and JPSS Programs are making. Stability of funding in FY 2014 and beyond is critical for meeting developmental milestones that will allow these programs to meet their launch dates. NOAA shares the concern of the Congress that gaps in coverage would significantly impact our ability to provide the weather coverage that the American public and commerce rely on. NOAA and the Department of Commerce thank the GAO for the very important contributions they are making to these programs. Mr. Powner and his team's recommendations offer us the opportunity for continuous improvement as we move forward to maintain the continuity of the operational environmental satellites that are so crucial to protecting American lives and property. Further, we express our appreciation to the members of the IRT and the OIG staff who have also provided significant and valuable review and recommendations. We accept their recommendations and will be responsive to them.