08-R170
2008 -- H 7520
Enacted 04/23/08
H O U S E R E S O L U T I O N
SUPPORTING THE
PROVISIONS INCLUDED IN THE IMPROVED HURRICANE TRACKING AND FORECASTING ACT OF
2007 (HR 2531/S 1509)
Introduced By:
Representatives Lewiss, Shanley, Kennedy, Walsh, and Gallison
Date Introduced: February
26, 2008
WHEREAS,
More than half of all Americans live within 50 miles of the coast, where
hurricanes
inflict the most damage, both monetarily and in terms of human lives lost; and
WHEREAS,
Rhode Island is 37 miles wide and 48 miles long with 400 miles of scenic
coastline,
so virtually all Rhode Islanders live within an approaching hurricane's danger
zone; and
WHEREAS,
The United States maintains a hurricane tracking/forecasting satellite, which
was
established to protect lives, property, and the environment through advanced
warning and
accurate
forecasting. Unfortunately, the satellite has outlived its original expected
lifespan by five
years
and is urgently in need of replacement; and
WHEREAS,
Better technology with more advanced and accurate warning systems are
available,
and are immediately required for the safety and well being of all the citizens
of the
Ocean
State, as well as millions across the county; and
WHEREAS,
Passage of HR 2531/S 1509 will provide the appropriation needed to
replace
our current hurricane tracking equipment, the QuikSCAT satellite, with a next
generation
ocean
surface vector satellite, that will not only enhance the abilities of the
National Hurricane
Center,
but will undoubtedly save lives; now, therefore be it
RESOLVED,
That this House of Representatives of the State of Rhode Island and
Providence
Plantations hereby urges the United States Congress to pass HR 2531 and S 1509,
the
Improved
Hurricane Tracking and Forecasting Act of 2007; and be it further
RESOLVED,
That the Secretary of State be and he hereby is authorized and directed to
transmit
duly certified copies of this resolution to the members of the Rhode Island
Congressional
Delegation.
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LC00723
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