Modernizing technology, centralizing data, and automation were among plans floated by Lutnick in response to bipartisan concern over National Weather Service staffing.

The Department of Commerce’s safety-centered AI organization will instead become the Center for AI Standards and Innovation.

While a Trump administration decision to recompete several Tech Hub awards prompted frustration among supporters of the Commerce Department program, it also affirmed its continuation.

The legislation would establish a nonprofit foundation to help NIST utilize partnerships with the private sector.

In a letter to Howard Lutnick, leading tech associations say downsizing NIST “will have ramifications” for the country’s ability to lead on AI.