The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, legislation that would bolster funding for the military branch’s critical missions, was introduced by leaders on the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee on Feb. 11.
Drafted and agreed to between the Senate Commerce Committee, on which U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA) serve as chair and ranking member, respectively, and the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, the bill would help the Coast Guard continue to handle border security, maritime commerce facilitation and oversight of domestic and international waters.
“Every day, the U.S. Coast Guard acts to stop the flow of illegal aliens and illicit drugs like fentanyl pouring across our border,” Cruz said. “Our bipartisan, bicameral bill would make it easier for Coast Guardsmen to accomplish their mission of protecting America at sea. In particular, the bill strengthens marine resources in Texas, increases cooperation between the Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and supports Coast Guard responsibilities related to U.S. energy and commercial space activities.”
The legislation would fund expanding efforts to interdict and prosecute illicit drug trafficking; protecting personnel from illicit drug exposure; upgrading the Coast Guard’s icebreaker fleet; and would address grossly negligent operations of vessels with appropriate criminal penalties. Additionally, the bill would allow the Coast Guard to map arctic maritime routes; increase the Coast Guard’s deterrence capabilities; improve the livelihood of Coast Guard families; refine procedures to prevent and respond to sexual assaults; and require the Coast Guard Academy to study its safety infrastructure.
“The bill drives much needed reforms that will help prevent sexual assault and sexual harassment throughout the Coast Guard, including establishing confidential reporting, strengthening protective orders, expanding access to care for victims and stronger accountability for leadership,” Cantwell said. “Admiral Fagan made great progress during her term, and the next Commandant will need to continue to be a steady force that stands up for service members.”