(Washington, D.C.) – Today, House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin and Investigations and Oversight Subcommittee Chairman Rich McCormick sent a letter to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Neil Jacobs requesting a briefing regarding NOAA’s oversight of marine cloud brightening and other geoengineering experiments occurring in the United States. The request follows a recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report recommending that NOAA strengthen its oversight of weather modification activities.
In the letter, the Chairmen raise concerns about the environmental, scientific, and governance risks posed by marine cloud brightening (MCB), a geoengineering technique that alters cloud properties by dispersing aerosols to increase cloud reflectivity. The Members wrote that “because this research has local, regional, and potentially global consequences, the Committee seeks to ensure rigorous oversight, heightened scrutiny, and greater transparency” in NOAA’s implementation of the Weather Modification Reporting Act of 1972. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining public transparency and confidence surrounding emerging geoengineering research and oversight activities.
The letter highlights the Alameda Marine Cloud Brightening experiment conducted in Alameda, California, which the City of Alameda halted after officials stated that the full scope of the experiment had not been fully disclosed to the public. While the University of Washington reportedly submitted notifications to NOAA as required under federal law, the Committee expressed concerns regarding community notification and documented risk assessments associated with the experiment.
The Chairmen also point to broader concerns surrounding emerging geoengineering technologies, including proposals to release particles into the atmosphere to reflect sunlight and temporarily cool the Earth. The letter notes that many scientists and experts have warned that such activities could carry unknown environmental and geopolitical risks, including disruptions to weather patterns.
Additionally, the release notes the February 2026 GAO report, which recommended that NOAA improve its review and confirmation procedures for weather modification reports, strengthen public reporting guidance, and better inform operators and state and local governments about NOAA’s oversight responsibilities. According to the report, NOAA agreed with each recommendation.
To support the Committee’s oversight efforts, the Chairmen requested a briefing from NOAA on the agency’s progress and plans for implementing the GAO’s recommendations.
To read the full letter, please click here.