Via James Hrynyshyn, word of possible budget cuts at the National Climatic Data Center:

The center holds the world’s largest collection of climate data and information, which often is used for monitoring long-term trends that might harm lives and property and the nation’s environmental, national, homeland and economic security.

A House budget proposal gives the data center $13.3 million, which is $3.9 million less than was requested and $1.2 million less than its budget from the previous fiscal year.

Without changes, the center would be forced to lay off some of its 100 contract scientists and workers and limit hours in which they can help 50,000 clients with questions, said Tom Karl, the center’s director.