For the second consecutive year, President Donald Trump has proposed deep funding cuts to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this time seeking a reduction of $1.6 billion (approx. €1.4 billion) in the fiscal year 2027 budget.

The proposal echoes the administration’s previous attempts to scale back the agency, though a similar request for $1.3 billion in cuts was largely rejected by Congress for the fiscal year 2026.

Key Details of the Proposal:

• Targeting “Green” Programs: The White House budget document specifically targets what it calls “Green New Scam” programs. It argues that NOAA’s educational grants promote “environmental alarm,” Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and anti-market sentiments among students.
• Criticism of Partner Organizations: The administration singled out groups like the Ocean Conservancy and One Cool Earth, claiming they push agendas that are detrimental to the American fishing industry.
• Permitting Overhaul: The budget again suggests moving permitting responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) from NOAA to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The administration argues this would reduce “red tape” and allow NOAA to focus strictly on managing commercial and recreational fisheries.

Historical Context and Opposition:

• Past Congressional Rejection: During the FY 2026 budget cycle, while House Republicans initially supported steep cuts, the Senate pushed back. The final compromise reached in January 2026 maintained NOAA Fisheries funding at roughly $1.12 billion, effectively ignoring Trump’s request for a 33% reduction.
• NGO Response: Conservation groups have been quick to condemn the new $1.6 billion proposal. Katherine Tsantiris of the Ocean Conservancy stated that slashing the budget would “disrupt fisheries management and stall ocean research,” ultimately threatening American livelihoods and safety.
• Political Climate: The proposal comes after a turbulent 2025 that saw a federal government shutdown and a battle over “impoundment” – the administration’s attempt to withhold funds already approved by Congress.

While the President’s budget serves as a statement of policy priorities, it now faces a difficult path in Congress, where lawmakers from both parties have previously moved to protect NOAA’s scientific and weather forecasting capabilities.