1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

The proposal to drastically reduce funding for the Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR) office at NOAA is deeply concerning. With a proposed budget allocation of just $170 million, down from $485 million in 2024, this would effectively eliminate one of the world's leading Earth sciences research operations. This move would severely undermine critical scientific work, including early warning systems for natural disasters, science education programs, and vital research on the rapidly warming Arctic region. The OAR plays a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of the Earth's complex systems and providing invaluable data and analysis that inform decision-making across various sectors. Dismantling this research division would be a significant setback for scientific progress and would jeopardize our ability to address pressing environmental challenges effectively. It is imperative that the OAR's research programs be fully funded to ensure the continuity of their invaluable work. Scientific research is the foundation upon which we can develop informed policies, mitigate risks, and safeguard the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. Cutting funding to such a crucial scientific institution would be a grave mistake with far-reaching consequences.