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July 26th, 2007
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Commerce Committee Chairman Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii) cosponsored a bill that authorizes the missions and programs of United States Coast Guard for fiscal year (FY) 2008. The measure, introduced earlier today, also authorizes new programs and includes new authorities that will enhance the Coast Guard’s critical homeland security, marine safety, fisheries, and environmental protection missions.
“The Coast Guard is tasked with protecting the American people, our natural resources, and our way of life,” said Senator Inouye. “Whether patrolling our coastline in the name of homeland security, protecting our marine resources, or saving lives, the Coast Guard must be well-funded and well-equipped to carry out its missions successfully.”
Sponsored by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Olympia J. Snowe (R-Maine), and also cosponsored by Commerce Committee Vice Chairman Ted Stevens (R-Alaska), Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.), and Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.), The Coast Guard Reauthorization Act:
- Clarifies and strengthens the Coast Guard’s ability to bolster the security of U.S. ports-of-entry and the coast against unlawful entry.
- Forms a funding remedy for seafarers who are abandoned in the United States because they witnessed a maritime-related crime and are working with law enforcement.
- Encourages international efforts and improves coordination with tribal governments to prevent oil pollution and create a more efficient response to oil pollution incidents.
- Requires the Coast Guard to acquire or construct two new polar class icebreakers and, if they are not operational by enactment, returns to operation the existing polar class icebreakers the Coast Guard maintains.
- Requires the Coast Guard to maintain the LORAN-C navigation system, which is used by general aviators, recreational boaters, commercial fisherman, and the military as a back up to the satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS).
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