Measure seeks to bolster Coast Guard funding

Two legislative panels have introduced legislation that seeks to strengthen and support Coast Guard funding.

The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee detailed the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2023, which addresses critical missions to safeguard the nation’s borders, facilitate maritime commerce, and ensure maritime safety.

“The men and women of the Coast Guard risk their lives every day to protect our nation and the lives of those at sea,” U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO), chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “From assuring the safety of maritime trade through the supply chain crisis to helping counter undue Chinese influence in the Pacific to helping to develop the United States’ redefined role in the rapidly changing Arctic, to stemming the human trafficking and influx of illicit drugs into the country, the Coast Guard is challenged with an ever-growing mission set and no growth in their physical infrastructure assets.”

Graves said the measure ensures the Coast Guard will have the resources and assets necessary to execute its critical missions.

Bill provisions include targeting defense readiness; enforcing federal laws on the high seas and waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction; executing illegal drug interdiction and stopping human trafficking; implementing port and coastal security; performing ice-breaking activities, and supporting increasing levels of maritime transportation in the Arctic.

“The United States Coast Guard plays a vital role in protecting our coasts, securing maritime trade by protecting our ports and waterways, responding to emergencies and disasters, and countless other missions,” said U.S. Rep. Daniel Webster (R-FL), chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee. “The bipartisan Coast Guard Authorization Act will provide the resources needed to help with readiness and the Service’s ability to carry out and meet its missions.”