Keep USGS Strong Act

Key Points

• This bill would stop the government from freezing new hires at the United States Geological Survey. This ensures the agency can keep hiring the scientists and staff needed to monitor natural disasters and water safety.
• It prevents the agency from laying off workers if Congress has already provided the money for their salaries. This protects current employees from staff reductions that might happen across other parts of the government.
• The agency would also get more control over its buildings and land. The government could not cancel leases for the agency's offices or research sites unless the Director of the agency agrees to it.
• Supporters say this is necessary because the agency provides critical data on earthquakes, floods, and the Great Lakes. They argue that losing staff would make it harder to warn the public about natural hazards or track clean drinking water.

Impact Analysis

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