Sat Apr 12 09:57:05 UTC 2025: ## Trump Administration Plans Deep Cuts to NOAA, Sparking Outrage

**Washington D.C., April 12, 2025** – The Trump administration has proposed drastic cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), including the elimination of its climate research arm and a refocusing of the fisheries service to prioritize energy development. A draft White House budget document reveals a proposed $1.67 billion (27%) reduction in NOAA’s funding.

The Office of Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (NOAA Research), responsible for crucial climate data and research, would be shuttered. This includes a $480 million cut impacting regional climate information, research labs, and cooperative institutes. The administration also plans to transfer key responsibilities of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), including endangered species protection, to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. NMFS would also lose funding for vital programs supporting species recovery, fisheries, and habitat conservation.

The proposal argues that NMFS should prioritize permitting and consultation to support energy development. While some funding for severe weather and ocean exploration programs would remain ($170 million), the overall impact is expected to be devastating.

Environmental groups have strongly condemned the proposal, warning of increased vulnerability to extreme weather, threats to ocean species, and harm to commercial fisheries. Oceana executive Beth Lowell called the cuts “ludicrous,” emphasizing the potential impact on millions of Americans reliant on healthy oceans for their livelihoods.

The White House Office of Management and Budget stated that no final funding decisions have been made, but the proposed cuts have already sparked widespread concern and criticism. The Commerce Department has not yet commented on the proposal.

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