|
WASHINGTON, D.C.-Congressman Allen Boyd (D-North Florida) today voted in favor of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2005 (HR 889) which authorizes approximately $8.7 billion for the Coast Guard in fiscal year 2006, $861 million more than requested by the Administration.
"In the past few weeks, the Coast Guard has played a fundamental role in Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts," said Congressman Boyd. "With severe flooding along the Gulf Coast and the majority of New Orleans underwater, members of the Coast Guard have worked tirelessly and risked their lives to rescue those people trapped by the floodwaters. This legislation represents our continued commitment to the important work they do."
The Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act authorizes $5.6 billion for operation and maintenance, including public safety activities, port and waterway security, law enforcement and maintaining navigational aids. The measure authorizes $1.9 billion for acquisition, construction and improvement of facilities, vessels and aircraft as well as $24 million for research, development, testing and evaluation by the Coast Guard.
This legislation also allows the Coast Guard to establish Naval Protection Zones up to 12 miles offshore, instead of three miles under current law. In addition, the bill permits the inspection of all ferries and maintains the current level of 45,500 personnel through fiscal year 2006.
"As the Coast Guard continues to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina, it is imperative that we do all we can to assist them in their mission, and today's legislation is one way Congress can do that," Boyd stated. "The measure authorizes funds to not only maintain, but strengthen the Coast Guard in the next few years so they can continue their important work of protecting our coastlines."
-30- |
Back to top