UPDATE: The ongoing U.S. government shutdown has sparked controversy as Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene claims it has successfully halted “taxpayer-funded weather modification experiments” that federal agencies assert do not exist. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, Greene declared, “One good thing to come from this government shutdown… CLEAR SKIES!” highlighting her push against what she describes as an unregulated and dangerous practice.
This urgent statement comes as Greene champions her proposed Clear Skies Act, which aims to ban geoengineering and weather modification outright. She further emphasized, “No more spraying chemicals in our skies. It’s time to end this dangerous and unregulated practice!” Despite her fervent claims, official agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have consistently stated they do not engage in large-scale weather modification experiments.
The EPA has confirmed, “The U.S. government is not engaged in any form of outdoor testing… or large-scale deployment” of solar radiation modification technologies. Similarly, NOAA reiterated on its website, “NOAA does not modify the weather, nor does it fund, participate in or oversee cloud seeding or any other weather modification activities.” These statements counter Greene’s assertions, linking them to a growing narrative rooted in conspiracy theories.
Greene’s claims have raised eyebrows, particularly because commercial flights, often the target of “chemtrail” theories, continue to operate normally during the shutdown. Furthermore, while cloud seeding has been practiced in the U.S. since the mid-1900s, it is typically funded at the state level and has been used primarily in drought-stricken areas. A recent report from the Government Accountability Office indicated that cloud seeding programs are active in at least nine Western states, aimed at increasing snowpack and mitigating drought impacts.
This situation is further complicated by Greene’s previous endorsements of conspiracy theories, including one that a space laser controlled by a prominent Jewish family caused California wildfires. Despite limited evidence supporting her claims of government involvement in weather modification, new reports reveal that the Trump administration is considering a task force through the Department of Health and Human Services to investigate climate and weather control. A memo obtained by KFF Health News describes various unfounded conspiracy theories, prompting skepticism from experts. Climate scientist Daniel Swain of the University of California remarked, “That is a pretty shocking memo. It doesn’t get more tinfoil hat.”
As the debate intensifies, Greene’s assertions serve as a rallying cry for those skeptical of government transparency regarding environmental interventions. With the government shutdown continuing, the implications on weather research and environmental policy remain uncertain. The next steps hinge on public response and further developments regarding Greene’s legislative efforts.
Stay tuned as we monitor this developing story and its impact on environmental policies and public perception of government actions.
