Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2024
This bill reauthorizes certain Coast Guard authorities and programs through FY2026, including by extending current levels for active-duty personnel and military training student loads. The bill also modifies several existing policies and programs.
Among other provisions, the bill
The bill also
Further, the bill requires the Coast Guard to provide Congress reports detailing the status of the Polar Security Cutter program, among other reporting requirements.
Additionally, the bill authorizes appropriations for the acquisition of additional vessels and aircraft, information technology modernization, and shoreside infrastructure.
[Congressional Bills 118th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 7659 Introduced in House (IH)]
<DOC>
118th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 7659
To authorize and amend authorities, programs, and statutes administered
by the Coast Guard.
_______________________________________________________________________
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
March 13, 2024
Mr. Graves of Missouri (for himself, Mr. Larsen of Washington, Mr.
Webster of Florida, and Mr. Carbajal) introduced the following bill;
which was referred to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure
_______________________________________________________________________
A BILL
To authorize and amend authorities, programs, and statutes administered
by the Coast Guard.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Coast Guard
Authorization Act of 2024''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as
follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
Sec. 2. Commandant defined.
TITLE I--AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
Sec. 101. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 102. Shoreside infrastructure and facilities and information
technology.
Sec. 103. Availability of amounts for acquisition of additional vessels
and aircraft.
Sec. 104. Authorization for certain programs and services.
Sec. 105. Authorized levels of military strength and training.
TITLE II--COAST GUARD
Subtitle A--Organization and Authorities
Sec. 201. Prohibition on use of lead systems integrators.
Sec. 202. Minor construction increase.
Sec. 203. Tsunami evacuation plans.
Sec. 204. Service life extension programs.
Sec. 205. Maritime domain awareness in coast guard sector for Puerto
Rico and Virgin Islands.
Sec. 206. Public availability of information on monthly drug and
migrant interdictions.
Sec. 207. Report on establishment of unmanned systems capabilities
office.
Sec. 208. Great Lakes icebreaker.
Sec. 209. Consideration of life-cycle cost estimates for acquisition
and procurement.
Sec. 210. Authorization of certain support for Coast Guard Academy
foundations.
Sec. 211. National Coast Guard Museum.
Sec. 212. Regular Polar Security Cutter updates.
Sec. 213. Technology pilot program.
Sec. 214. Report on condition of Missouri River dayboards.
Sec. 215. Delegation of ports and waterways safety authorities in St.
Lawrence seaway.
Sec. 216. Adjustment of liability limits for natural gas deepwater
ports.
Sec. 217. Study on Coast Guard missions.
Subtitle B--Personnel
Sec. 221. Direct hire authority for civilian faculty at the Coast Guard
Academy.
Sec. 222. Temporary exemption from authorized end strength for Coast
Guard enlisted members on active duty.
Sec. 223. Additional available guidance and considerations for reserve
selection boards.
Sec. 224. Parental leave parity for members of certain reserve
components of Coast Guard.
Sec. 225. Authorization for maternity uniform allowance for officers.
Sec. 226. Modification to career intermission program.
Sec. 227. Report on GAO recommendations on housing program.
TITLE III--SHIPPING AND NAVIGATION
Subtitle A--Vessel Operations
Sec. 301. Definitions.
Sec. 302. Notification.
Sec. 303. Publication of fines and penalties.
Subtitle B--Merchant Mariner Credentialing
Sec. 311. Revising merchant mariner deck training requirements.
Sec. 312. Amendments.
Sec. 313. Renewal of merchant mariner licenses and documents.
Sec. 314. Merchant seamen licenses, certificates, and documents;
manning of vessels.
Subtitle C--Vessel Safety
Sec. 321. Grossly negligent operations of a vessel.
Sec. 322. Administrative procedure for security risks.
Sec. 323. Requirements for DUKW amphibious passenger vessels.
Sec. 324. Risk-based examination of tank vessels.
Sec. 325. Ports and waterways safety.
Sec. 326. Study on Bering Strait vessel traffic projections and
emergency response posture at the port of
Point Spencer, Alaska.
Sec. 327. Underwater inspections brief.
Sec. 328. St. Lucie River railroad bridge.
Sec. 329. Rulemaking regarding port access routes.
Subtitle D--Other Matters
Sec. 341. Anchor handling activities.
Sec. 342. Establishment of National Advisory Committee on Autonomous
Maritime Systems.
Sec. 343. Controlled substance onboard vessels.
Sec. 344. Nonoperating individual.
Sec. 345. Information on type approval certificates.
Sec. 346. Manning and crewing requirements for certain vessels,
vehicles, and structures.
Sec. 347. Classification societies.
Sec. 348. Authority to establish safety zones for special activities in
exclusive economic zone.
Sec. 349. Fishing vessel and fisherman training safety.
Sec. 350. Authority over Deepwater Port Act of 1974.
Sec. 351. National Offshore Safety Advisory Committee composition.
Sec. 352. Improving Vessel Traffic Service monitoring.
Sec. 353. Abandoned and derelict vessel removals.
TITLE IV--OIL POLLUTION INCIDENT LIABILITY
Sec. 401. Vessel response plans.
Sec. 402. Use of marine casualty investigations.
Sec. 403. Timing of review.
Sec. 404. Online incident reporting system.
TITLE V--IMPLEMENTATION OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY REVIEW
RECOMMENDATIONS
Sec. 501. Implementation status of directed actions.
Sec. 502. Independent review of Coast Guard reforms.
Sec. 503. Requirement to maintain certain records.
Sec. 504. Study on Coast Guard Academy oversight.
Sec. 505. Providing for the transfer of a cadet who is the victim of a
sexual assault or related offense.
Sec. 506. Designation of officers with particular expertise in military
justice or healthcare.
Sec. 507. Direct hire authority for certain personnel of Coast Guard.
Sec. 508. Safe-to-report policy for Coast Guard.
Sec. 509. Modification of delivery date of Coast Guard sexual assault
report.
Sec. 510. Higher-level review of board of determination decisions.
Sec. 511. Review of discharge or dismissal.
TITLE VI--AMENDMENTS
Sec. 601. Amendments.
SEC. 2. COMMANDANT DEFINED.
In this Act, the term ``Commandant'' means the Commandant of the
Coast Guard.
TITLE I--AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS
SEC. 101. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Section 4902 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking
``fiscal years 2022 and 2023'' and inserting ``fiscal years
2025 and 2026'';
(2) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A) by striking clauses (i) and
(ii) and inserting the following:
``(i) $11,287,500,000 for fiscal year 2025; and
``(ii) $11,851,875,000 for fiscal year 2026.'';
(B) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``$23,456,000''
and inserting ``$25,570,000''; and
(C) in subparagraph (C) by striking ``$24,353,000''
and inserting ``$26,848,500'';
(3) in paragraph (2)(A) by striking clauses (i) and (ii)
and inserting the following:
``(i) $3,477,600,000 for fiscal year 2025; and
``(ii) $3,651,480,000 for fiscal year 2026.'';
(4) in paragraph (3) by striking subparagraphs (A) and (B)
and inserting the following:
``(A) $15,415,000 for fiscal year 2025; and
``(B) $16,185,750 for fiscal year 2026.''; and
(5) by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:
``(4) For retired pay, including the payment of obligations
otherwise chargeable to lapsed appropriations for purposes of
retired pay, payments under the Retired Serviceman's Family
Protection Plan and the Survivor Benefit Plan, payment for
career status bonuses, payment of continuation pay under
section 356 of title 37, concurrent receipts, combat-related
special compensation, and payments for medical care of retired
personnel and their dependents under chapter 55 of title 10,
$1,147,244,000 for fiscal year 2025.''.
SEC. 102. SHORESIDE INFRASTRUCTURE AND FACILITIES AND INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY.
(a) Information Technology.--Of the amounts authorized to be
appropriated under section 4902(2)(A) of title 14, United States Code--
(1) for fiscal year 2025, $36,300,000 is authorized to
modernize the Coast Guard's information technology systems, of
which $11,000,000 is authorized to fund the acquisition,
development, and implementation of a new credentialing system
for the Merchant Mariner credentialing program; and
(2) for fiscal year 2026, $36,300,000 is authorized to
modernize the Coast Guard's information technology systems.
(b) Shoreside Infrastructure.--Of the amounts authorized to be
appropriated under section 4902(2)(A) of title 14, United States Code--
(1) for fiscal year 2025, $500,000,000 is authorized to
fund maintenance, construction, and repairs for Coast Guard
shoreside infrastructure, of which--
(A) $225,000,000 is authorized for the purposes of
improvements to facilities at the United States Coast
Guard Training Center Cape May in Cape May, New Jersey;
(B) $10,000,000 is authorized to fund the creation
of an infrastructure development plan for the Coast
Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut;
(C) $50,000,000 is authorized to complete repairs
and improvements of Chase Hall at the Coast Guard
Academy in New London, Connecticut, including
remediation of asbestos, lead, and mold and upgrading
the electric outlet availability and storage space in
student rooms, and making changes to house not more
than 2 Officer Candidates in a room;
(D) $70,000,000 is authorized for the purposes of
planning, designing, and building a floating drydock at
the United States Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore,
Maryland;
(E) $40,000,000 is authorized for the purposes of
planning, designing, and building a hangar to house, at
a minimum, 2 HC-130J Super Hercules aircraft at Air
Station Barbers Point in Kapolei, Hawaii; and
(F) $90,000,000 is authorized to fund waterfront
improvements of Coast Guard Base Seattle; and
(2) for fiscal year 2026, $600,000,000 is authorized to
fund maintenance, construction, and repairs for Coast Guard
shoreside infrastructure, of which--
(A) $125,000,000 is authorized for the purposes of
improvements to facilities at the United States Coast
Guard Training Center Cape May in Cape May, New Jersey;
(B) $100,000,000 is authorized to execute the
infrastructure development plan for the Coast Guard
Academy in New London, Connecticut developed in
paragraph (1)(C);
(C) $100,000,000 is authorized for the purposes of
planning, designing, and building a floating drydock at
the United States Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore,
Maryland;
(D) $40,000,000 is authorized for the purposes of
planning, designing, and building a hangar to house at
a minimum 2 HC-130J Super Hercules aircraft at Air
Station Barbers Point in Kapolei, Hawaii; and
(E) $90,000,000 is authorized to fund waterfront
improvements of Coast Guard Base Seattle.
SEC. 103. AVAILABILITY OF AMOUNTS FOR ACQUISITION OF ADDITIONAL VESSELS
AND AIRCRAFT.
(a) Fiscal Year 2025.--Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated
under section 4902(2)(A) of title 14, United States Code, for fiscal
year 2025--
(1) $138,500,000 is authorized for the acquisition or
procurement of 1 missionized HC-130J Super Hercules aircraft;
and
(2) $36,000,000 is authorized for the service life
extension program and any necessary upgrades of the 47-foot
Motor Life Boat.
(b) Fiscal Year 2026.--Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated
under section 4902(2)(A) of title 14, United States Code, for fiscal
year 2026--
(1) $1,200,000,000 is authorized for the acquisition of a
Polar Security Cutter;
(2) $1,100,000,000 is authorized for the acquisition of 2
Offshore Patrol Cutters;
(3) $138,500,000 is authorized for the acquisition or
procurement of 1 missionized HC-130J Super Hercules aircraft;
and
(4) $153,500,000 is authorized to outfit and assemble 5 MH-
60T Jayhawk aircrafts.
SEC. 104. AUTHORIZATION FOR CERTAIN PROGRAMS AND SERVICES.
(a) Fiscal Year 2025.--Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated
under section 4902(1)(A) of title 14, United States Code, for fiscal
year 2025--
(1) $11,978,000 is authorized to fund additional recruiting
personnel and offices for the Coast Guard Recruiting Command;
(2) $9,000,000 is authorized to enhance Coast Guard
recruiting capabilities; and
(3) $25,000,000 is authorized for the implementation of
each directed action outlined in enclosure 1 of the memorandum
of the Commandant titled ``Commandant's Directed Actions-
Accountability and Transparency'', dated November 27, 2023.
(b) Fiscal Year 2026.--Of the amounts authorized to be appropriated
under section 4902(1)(A) of title 14, United States Code, $35,000,000
is authorized for the implementation of each directed action outlined
in enclosure 1 of the memorandum of the Commandant titled
``Commandant's Directed Actions-Accountability and Transparency'',
dated November 27, 2023.
SEC. 105. AUTHORIZED LEVELS OF MILITARY STRENGTH AND TRAINING.
Section 4904 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a) by striking ``fiscal years 2022 and
2023'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2025 and 2026''; and
(2) in subsection (b) by striking ``fiscal years 2022 and
2023'' and inserting ``fiscal years 2025 and 2026''.
TITLE II--COAST GUARD
Subtitle A--Organization and Authorities
SEC. 201. PROHIBITION ON USE OF LEAD SYSTEMS INTEGRATORS.
Section 1105 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(c) Lead Systems Integrator Defined.--In this section, the term
`lead systems integrator' has the meaning given such term in section
805(c) of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2006
(Public Law 109-163).''.
SEC. 202. MINOR CONSTRUCTION INCREASE.
Section 903(d)(1) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``$1,500,000'' and inserting ``$2,000,000''.
SEC. 203. TSUNAMI EVACUATION PLANS.
(a) Tsunami Evacuation Plans.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Commandant, in consultation with the
Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration and the Administrator of the Federal Emergency
Management Agency, shall establish location specific tsunami
evacuation plans for each unit and sector of the Coast Guard
that has facilities, personnel, or assets located within
areas--
(A) designated by the Administrator of the National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as high risk or
very high risk of a United States tsunami hazard; and
(B) that are located inside a tsunami inundation
zone.
(2) Evacuation plans.--In establishing the evacuation plans
under paragraph (1), the Commandant shall ensure that such
plans--
(A) are included in the emergency action plans for
each unit or sector located inside of a tsunami
inundation zone;
(B) designate an evacuation route to an assembly
area located outside of a tsunami inundation zone;
(C) include a map or diagram of all tsunami
inundation zone evacuation routes;
(D) include evacuation routes for all Coast Guard
personnel and dependents of such personnel living in
Coast Guard housing;
(E) are feasible for all servicemembers and
dependents of such servicemembers present on Coast
Guard property or living in Coast Guard provided
housing;
(F) include procedures to begin evacuations once a
major seismic event is detected;
(G) include evacuation plans for air and water
assets that do not impinge on the safety of human life;
(H) are able to be completely executed within 15
minutes of detection of a seismic event or, if not
possible within 15 minutes, within a reasonable
timeframe;
(I) are able to be completely executed by
servicemembers on foot from any location within the
tsunami inundation zone;
(J) are exercised biennially by each unit and
sector located in a tsunami inundation zone; and
(K) are evaluated by leadership at each unit and
sector located in a tsunami inundation zone annually.
(3) Consultation.--In establishing the evacuation plans
under paragraph (1), the Commandant shall consult local
governments.
(b) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate,
and provide a briefing to each such Committee on, a report on--
(1) the status of the implementation and feasibility of the
plans established under subsection (a)(1);
(2) a risk evaluation and vulnerability assessment of the
infrastructure and assets located within tsunami inundation
zones;
(3) the need for vertical evacuation structures for units
and sectors in which an evacuation of a tsunami inundation zone
cannot be completed on foot within 15 minutes of the detection
of a seismic event; and
(4) whether the plans established under subsection (a)(1)
achieve the purpose to protect human life and ensure the
ability for the Coast Guard to provide search and rescue
operations following a tsunami event in the area.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Seismic event.--The term ``seismic event'' means an
earthquake, volcanic eruption, submarine landslide, coastal
rockfall, or other event with the magnitude to cause a tsunami.
(2) Tsunami inundation zone.--The term ``tsunami inundation
zone'' means an area of inland flooding modeled, predicted, or
forecasted as a potential result of a tsunami or seismic event.
(3) Vertical evacuation structure.--The term ``vertical
evacuation structure'' means an elevated structure above the
tsunami inundation zone designated as a place of refuge from
flood waters.
SEC. 204. SERVICE LIFE EXTENSION PROGRAMS.
(a) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 11 of title 14, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 1138. Service life extension programs
``(a) In General.--Requirements for a Level 1 or Level 2
acquisition project or program under sections 1131 through 1134 shall
not apply to an acquisition by the Coast Guard that is a service life
extension program.
``(b) Service Life Extension Program Defined.--In this section, the
term `service life extension program' means a capital investment that
is solely intended to extend the service life and address obsolescence
of components or systems of a particular capability or asset.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 1137 the following:
``1138. Service life extension programs.''.
SEC. 205. MARITIME DOMAIN AWARENESS IN COAST GUARD SECTOR FOR PUERTO
RICO AND VIRGIN ISLANDS.
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act,
the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report
containing--
(1) an overview of the maritime domain awareness in the
area of responsibility of the Coast Guard sector responsible
for Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands,
including--
(A) the average volume of known maritime traffic
that transited the area during fiscal years 2020
through 2023;
(B) current sensor platforms deployed by such
sector to monitor illicit activity occurring at sea in
such area;
(C) the number of illicit activity incidents at sea
in such area that the sector responded to during fiscal
years 2020 through 2023;
(D) an estimate of the volume of traffic engaged in
illicit activity at sea in such area and the type and
description of any vessels used to carry out illicit
activities that such sector responded to during fiscal
years 2020 through 2023; and
(E) the maritime domain awareness requirements to
effectively meet the mission of such sector;
(2) a description of current actions taken by the Coast
Guard to partner with Federal, regional, State, and local
entities to meet the maritime domain awareness needs of such
area;
(3) a description of any gaps in maritime domain awareness
within the area of responsibility of such sector resulting from
an inability to meet the enduring maritime domain awareness
requirements of the sector or adequately respond to maritime
disorder, including illicit drug and migrant activity;
(4) an identification of current technology and assets the
Coast Guard has to mitigate the gaps identified in paragraph
(3);
(5) an identification of capabilities needed to mitigate
such gaps, including any capabilities the Coast Guard currently
possesses that can be deployed to the sector;
(6) an identification of technology and assets the Coast
Guard does not currently possess and are needed to acquire in
order to address such gaps; and
(7) an identification of any financial obstacles that
prevent the Coast Guard from deploying existing commercially
available sensor technology to address such gaps.
SEC. 206. PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION ON MONTHLY DRUG AND
MIGRANT INTERDICTIONS.
(a) In General.--Section 11269 of the Don Young Coast Guard
Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263) is--
(1) transferred to appear at the end of subchapter II of
chapter 5 of title 14, United States Code;
(2) redesignated as section 529; and
(3) amended--
(A) by striking the section enumerator and heading
and inserting the following:
``Sec. 529. Public availability of information on monthly drug and
migrant interdictions'';
(B) by striking ``Not later than'' and inserting
the following:
``(a) In General.--Not later than'';
(C) by inserting ``drug and'' before ``migrant
interdictions''; and
(D) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Contents.--In making information about interdictions publicly
available under subsection (a), the Commandant shall include a
description of the following:
``(1) The number of incidents in which drugs were
interdicted, the amount and type of drugs interdicted, and the
Coast Guard sectors and geographic areas of responsibility in
which such incidents occurred.
``(2) The number of incidents in which migrants were
interdicted, the number of migrants interdicted, and the Coast
Guard sectors and geographic areas of responsibility in which
such incidents occurred.''.
(b) Clerical Amendments.--
(1) The analysis for chapter 5 of title 14, United States
Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 528 the following:
``529. Public availability of information on monthly drug and migrant
interdictions.''.
(2) The table of sections in section 11001(b) of the Don
Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022 (division K of
Public Law 117-263) is amended by striking the item relating to
section 11269.
SEC. 207. REPORT ON ESTABLISHMENT OF UNMANNED SYSTEMS CAPABILITIES
OFFICE.
(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a
report that outlines a plan for establishing an unmanned systems
capabilities office within the Coast Guard responsible for the
acquisition and development of unmanned system and counter-unmanned
system technologies and to expand the capabilities of the Coast Guard
with respect to such technologies.
(b) Contents.--The report required under subsection (a) shall
include the following:
(1) A management strategy for the acquisition, development,
and deployment of unmanned system and counter-unmanned system
technologies.
(2) A service-wide coordination strategy to synchronize and
integrate efforts across the Coast Guard in order to--
(A) support the primary duties of the Coast Guard
pursuant to section 102 of title 14, United States
Code; and
(B) pursue expanded research, development, testing,
and evaluation opportunities and funding to expand and
accelerate identification and transition of unmanned
system and counter-unmanned system technologies.
(3) The identification of contracting and acquisition
authorities needed to expedite the development and deployment
of unmanned system and counter-unmanned system technologies.
(4) A detailed list of commercially available unmanned
system and counter-unmanned system technologies with
capabilities determined to be useful for the Coast Guard.
(5) A cross-agency collaboration plan to engage with the
Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, and
other relevant agencies to identify common requirements and
opportunities to partner in acquiring, contracting, and
sustaining unmanned system and counter-unmanned system
capabilities.
(6) Opportunities to obtain and share unmanned system data
from government and commercial sources to improve maritime
domain awareness.
(7) The development of a concept of operations for a data
ecosystem that supports and integrates unmanned system and
counter-unmanned system technologies with key enablers,
including enterprise communications networks, data storage and
management, artificial intelligence and machine learning tools,
and information sharing and dissemination capabilities.
(c) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Counter-unmanned system.--The term ``counter-unmanned
system'' means a system or device capable of lawfully and
safely disabling, disrupting, or seizing control of an unmanned
system, including a counter-UAS system (as such term is defined
in section 44801 of title 49, United States Code).
(2) Unmanned system.--The term ``unmanned system'' means an
unmanned surface, undersea, or aircraft and associated elements
(including communication links and the components that control
the unmanned system) that are required for the operator to
operate the system safely and efficiently, including an
unmanned aircraft system (as such term is defined in section
44801 of title 49, United States Code).
SEC. 208. GREAT LAKES ICEBREAKER.
Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a strategy
detailing how the Coast Guard will complete design and construction of
the Great Lakes icebreaker at least as capable as the Coast Guard
Cutter Mackinaw (WLBB-30) in not more than 3 years after funding is
provided for such icebreaker.
SEC. 209. CONSIDERATION OF LIFE-CYCLE COST ESTIMATES FOR ACQUISITION
AND PROCUREMENT.
(a) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 11 of title 46, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 1138. Consideration of life-cycle cost estimates for acquisition
and procurement
``In carrying out the acquisition and procurement of vessels and
aircraft, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is
operating, acting through the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall
consider the life-cycle cost estimates of vessels and aircraft, as
applicable, during the design and evaluation processes to the maximum
extent practicable.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 46,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 1137 the following:
``1138. Consideration of life-cycle cost estimates for acquisition and
procurement.''.
SEC. 210. AUTHORIZATION OF CERTAIN SUPPORT FOR COAST GUARD ACADEMY
FOUNDATIONS.
(a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 19 of title 14, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 1907. Authorization of certain support for Coast Guard Academy
foundations
``(a) Authority.--Subject to subsection (b) and pursuant to
regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating, the Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy
may authorize a covered foundation to use, on an unreimbursed basis,
facilities or equipment of the Coast Guard Academy.
``(b) Limitations.--Use of facilities or equipment under subsection
(a) may be provided only if such use has been reviewed and approved by
an attorney of the Coast Guard and only if such use--
``(1) is without any liability of the United States to the
covered foundation;
``(2) does not affect the ability of any official or
employee of the Coast Guard, or any member of the Armed Forces,
to carry out any responsibility or duty in a fair and objective
manner;
``(3) does not compromise the integrity or appearance of
integrity of any program of the Coast Guard, or any individual
involved in such a program;
``(4) does not include the participation of any cadet other
than participation in an honor guard at an event of the covered
foundation; and
``(5) complies with any applicable ethics regulations.
``(c) Briefing.--In any fiscal year during which the Superintendent
of the Coast Guard Academy exercises the authority under subsection
(a), the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall provide a briefing to the
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate not later than the last day of that fiscal
year regarding the number of events or activities of a covered
foundation supported by such exercise during such fiscal year.
``(d) Covered Foundation Defined.--In this section, the term
`covered foundation' means a charitable, educational, or civic
nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, that the Secretary concerned determines operates
exclusively to support, with respect to a Service Academy, any of the
following:
``(1) Recruiting.
``(2) Parent or alumni development.
``(3) Academic, leadership, or character development.
``(4) Institutional development.
``(5) Athletics.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 19 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 1906 the following:
``1907. Authorization of certain support for Coast Guard Academy
foundations.''.
SEC. 211. NATIONAL COAST GUARD MUSEUM.
Section 316 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``The Secretary''
and inserting ``Except as provided in paragraph (2),
the Secretary''; and
(B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``engineering and
design of a Museum'' and inserting ``design of a
Museum, and engineering, construction administration,
and quality assurance services of a Museum'';
(2) by amending subsection (e)(2)(A) to read as follows:
``(A) lease from the Association for Coast Guard
operations the Museum and properties owned by the
Association adjacent to the railroad tracks to which
the property on which the Museum is located are
adjacent; and''; and
(3) by amending subsection (g) to read as follows:
``(g) Services.--With respect to the services related to the
construction, maintenance, and operation of the Museum, the Commandant
may--
``(1) solicit and accept services from nonprofit entities,
including the Association; and
``(2) enter into contracts or memorandums of agreement with
or make grants to the Association to acquire such services.''.
SEC. 212. REGULAR POLAR SECURITY CUTTER UPDATES.
(a) Report.--
(1) Report to congress.--Not later than 60 days after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House
of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate a report on the status of
acquisition of the first Polar Security Cutter.
(2) Elements.--The report under paragraph (1) shall
include--
(A) a detailed timeline for the acquisition process
of the first Polar Security Cutter, including expected
milestones and projected commissioning date;
(B) an accounting of the previously appropriated
funds spent to date on the Polar Security Cutter
Program, updated cost projections for the first Polar
Security Cutter, and projections for when additional
funds will be required;
(C) potential factors and risks that could further
delay or imperil the completion of the first Polar
Security Cutter; and
(D) a review of the acquisition of the first Polar
Security Cutter to date, including factors that led to
substantial cost overruns and delivery delays.
(b) Briefings.--
(1) Provision to congress.--Not later than 60 days after
the submission of the report under subsection (a), and not less
frequently than every 60 days thereafter, the Commandant shall
provide to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate a briefing on the
status of the Polar Security Cutter acquisition process.
(2) Timeline.--The briefings under paragraph (1) shall
occur after any key milestone in the Polar Security Cutter
acquisition process, but not less frequently than every 60
days.
(3) Elements.--Each briefing under paragraph (1) shall
include--
(A) a summary of acquisition progress since the
most recent previous briefing conducted pursuant to
paragraph (1);
(B) an updated timeline and budget estimate for
acquisition and building of pending Polar Security
Cutters; and
(C) an explanation of any delays or additional
costs incurred in the acquisition progress.
(c) Notifications.--In addition to the briefings required under
subsection (b), the Commandant shall notify the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate
within 3 business days of any significant change to the scope or
funding level of the Polar Security Cutter acquisition strategy of such
change.
SEC. 213. TECHNOLOGY PILOT PROGRAM.
Section 319(b)(1) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``2'' and inserting ``4''.
SEC. 214. REPORT ON CONDITION OF MISSOURI RIVER DAYBOARDS.
(a) Provision to Congress.--Not later than 180 days after the date
of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee
on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives
and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
Senate a report on the condition of dayboards and the placement of
buoys on the Missouri River.
(b) Elements.--The report under paragraph (1) shall include--
(1) a list of the most recent date on which each dayboard
and buoy was serviced by the Coast Guard;
(2) an overview of the plan of the Coast Guard to
systematically service each dayboard and buoy on the Missouri
River; and
(3) assigned points of contact.
SEC. 215. DELEGATION OF PORTS AND WATERWAYS SAFETY AUTHORITIES IN ST.
LAWRENCE SEAWAY.
Section 70032 of title 46, United States Code, is amended to read
as follows:
``Sec. 70032. Saint Lawrence Seaway
``(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), the
authority granted to the Secretary under sections 70001, 70002, 70003,
70004, and 70011 may not be delegated with respect to the Saint
Lawrence Seaway to any agency other than the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence
Seaway Development Corporation. Any other authority granted the
Secretary under subchapters I through III and this subchapter shall be
delegated by the Secretary to the Great Lakes Saint Lawrence Seaway
Development Corporation to the extent the Secretary determines such
delegation is necessary for the proper operation of the Saint Lawrence
Seaway.
``(b) Exception.--The Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating, after consultation with the Secretary of
Transportation, or the head of an agency to which the Secretary has
delegated the authorities in subsection (a), may--
``(1) issue and enforce special orders in accordance with
section 70002;
``(2) establish water or waterfront safety zones, or other
measures, for limited, controlled, or conditional access and
activity when necessary for the protection of any vessel
structure, waters, or shore area, as permitted in section
70011(b)(2); and
``(3) take actions for port, harbor, and coastal facility
security in accordance with section 70116.''.
SEC. 216. ADJUSTMENT OF LIABILITY LIMITS FOR NATURAL GAS DEEPWATER
PORTS.
Section 1004(d)(2) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (33 U.S.C.
2704(d)(2)) is amended to read as follows:
``(2) Deepwater ports and associated vessels.--
``(A) In general.--If the Secretary determines that
the design and operation of a class or category of
deepwater port results in a lower risk of oil pollution
than other deepwater ports, the Secretary may initiate
a rulemaking proceeding to lower the limit of liability
under subsection (a)(4) for such class or category of
deepwater port.
``(B) Considerations.--In determining the risk of
oil pollution for a class or category of deepwater port
under subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall take into
account the size, oil storage capacity, oil handling
capacity, oil throughput, proximity to sensitive areas,
type of oil handled, history of oil discharges, and any
other factors relevant to the oil pollution risks posed
by the class or category of deepwater port and
associated vessels, as the Secretary determines
appropriate.
``(C) Amount of liability limit.--In lowering the
limit of liability for a class or category of deepwater
port under this paragraph, the Secretary may establish
a limit of liability of--
``(i) not less than $50,000,000 for
deepwater ports used in connection with the
transportation of oil; and
``(ii) not less than $1,000,000 for
deepwater ports used in connection with the
transportation of natural gas.''.
SEC. 217. STUDY ON COAST GUARD MISSIONS.
(a) Study.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall seek to enter into
an agreement with a federally funded research and development
center with relevant expertise under which such center shall
conduct an assessment of the operational capabilities and
ability of the Coast Guard to conduct the primary duties of the
Coast Guard under section 102 of title 14, United States Code,
and missions under section 888 of the Homeland Security Act of
2002 (6 U.S.C. 468).
(2) Elements.--In carrying out the assessment required
under paragraph (1), the federally funded research and
development center selected under such subsection shall, with
respect to the primary duties and missions described in
paragraph (1), include the following:
(A) An analysis of the extent to which the Coast
Guard is able to effectively carry out such duties and
missions.
(B) Recommendations for the Coast Guard to more
effectively carry out such duties and missions, in
light of manpower and asset constraints.
(C) Recommendations of which such duties and
missions should be transferred to other departments or
eliminated in light of the manpower and asset
constraints of the Coast Guard.
(D) An analysis of the benefits and drawbacks of
transferring the Coast Guard or any of the duties and
missions of the Cost Guard to other appropriate Federal
departments or independent agencies.
(b) Assessment to Commandant.--Not later than 1 year after the date
on which Commandant enters into an agreement under section (a), the
federally funded research and development center selected under such
subsection shall submit to the Commandant the assessment required under
subsection (a).
(c) Report to Congress.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after receipt of
the assessment under subsection (b), the Commandant shall
submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that
includes recommendations included in the assessment to
strengthen the ability of the Coast Guard to carry out such
duties and missions.
(2) Elements.--The report required under paragraph (1)
shall include the following:
(A) The assessment received by the Commandant under
subsection (b).
(B) For each recommendation included in the such
assessment--
(i) an assessment by the Commandant of the
feasibility and advisability of implementing
such recommendation; and
(ii) if the Commandant of the Coast Guard
considers the implementation of such
recommendation feasible and advisable, a
description of the actions taken, or to be
taken, to implement such recommendation.
Subtitle B--Personnel
SEC. 221. DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY FOR CIVILIAN FACULTY AT THE COAST GUARD
ACADEMY.
Section 1941 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (b) as subsection (c); and
(2) by inserting after subsection (a) the following:
``(b) The Secretary may, without regard to the appointment
requirements of title 5, United States Code, noncompetitively appoint a
highly qualified candidate to a faculty position in the excepted
service.''.
SEC. 222. TEMPORARY EXEMPTION FROM AUTHORIZED END STRENGTH FOR COAST
GUARD ENLISTED MEMBERS ON ACTIVE DUTY.
Notwithstanding section 517 of title 10, United States Code, and
until October 1, 2027, the authorized end strength for enlisted members
on active duty (other than for training) in the Coast Guard in pay
grades E-8 and E-9 may be more than 3.0 percent and 1.25 percent
respectively of the number of enlisted members of the Coast Guard who
are on active duty other than for training.
SEC. 223. ADDITIONAL AVAILABLE GUIDANCE AND CONSIDERATIONS FOR RESERVE
SELECTION BOARDS.
Section 3740(f) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``section 2117'' and inserting ``sections 2115 and 2117''.
SEC. 224. PARENTAL LEAVE PARITY FOR MEMBERS OF CERTAIN RESERVE
COMPONENTS OF COAST GUARD.
(a) Parental Leave.--
(1) In general.--Subchapter I of chapter 29 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``Sec. 2907. Parental leave for members of certain reserve components
of Coast Guard
``(a)(1) Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary, a member of
the reserve component of the Coast Guard described in subsection (b) is
allowed parental leave for a duration of up to 12 inactive-duty
training periods, under section 206 of title 37, during the one-year
period beginning after the following events:
``(A) the birth or adoption of a child of the member and to
care for such child; or
``(B) the placement of a minor child with the member for
adoption or long-term foster care.
``(2)(A) The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard
is operating, may authorize leave described under subparagraph (A) to
be taken after the one-year period described in subparagraph (A) in the
case of a member described in subsection (b) who, except for this
subparagraph, would lose unused parental leave at the end of the one-
year period described in subparagraph (A) as a result of--
``(i) operational requirements;
``(ii) professional military education obligations; or
``(iii) other circumstances that the Secretary determines
reasonable and appropriate.
``(B) The regulations prescribed under clause (i) shall require
that any leave authorized to be taken after the one-year period
described in subparagraph (A) shall be taken within a reasonable period
of time, as determined by the Secretary in which the department is
operating, after cessation of the circumstances warranting the extended
deadline.
``(b) A member described in this subsection is a member of the
Coast Guard who is a member of--
``(1) the selected reserve who is entitled to compensation
under section 206 of title 37; or
``(2) the individual ready reserve who is entitled to
compensation under section 206 of title 37 when attending or
participating in a sufficient number of periods of inactive-
duty training during a year to count the year as a qualifying
year of creditable service toward eligibility for retired
pay.''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 29 of
title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the
item relating to section 2906 the following:
``2907. Parental leave for members of certain reserve components of
Coast Guard.''.
(b) Compensation.--Section 206(a)(4) of title 37, United States
Code, is amended by inserting before the period at the end ``or
parental leave under section 2907 of title 14''.
SEC. 225. AUTHORIZATION FOR MATERNITY UNIFORM ALLOWANCE FOR OFFICERS.
Section 2708 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(c) The Coast Guard may provide a cash allowance in such amount
as the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is
operating shall determine in regulations to be paid to pregnant officer
personnel for the purchase of maternity-related uniform items if such
uniform items are not so furnished to the member.''.
SEC. 226. MODIFICATION TO CAREER INTERMISSION PROGRAM.
Section 2514 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (c)(3) by striking ``2 months'' and
inserting ``1 month''; and
(2) in subsection (h)--
(A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``; and'' and
inserting a semicolon;
(B) in paragraph (2) by striking the period at the
end and inserting ``; and''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) the entitlement of the member and of the survivors of
the member to all death benefits under the provisions of
chapter 75 of title 10;
``(4) the provision of all travel and transportation
allowances for the survivors of deceased members to attend
burial ceremonies under section 481f of title 37; and
``(5) the eligibility of the member for general benefits as
provided in part II of title 38.''.
SEC. 227. REPORT ON GAO RECOMMENDATIONS ON HOUSING PROGRAM.
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the
status of the implementation of the recommendations contained in the
report of the Government Accountability Office titled ``Coast Guard:
Better Feedback Collection and Information Could Enhance Housing
Program'', and issued February 5, 2024 (GAO-24-106388).
TITLE III--SHIPPING AND NAVIGATION
Subtitle A--Vessel Operations
SEC. 301. DEFINITIONS.
In this subtitle:
(1) Outer continental shelf.--The term ``outer Continental
Shelf'' has the meaning given such term in section 2 of the
Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331).
(2) Ruling letter.--The term ``ruling letter'' means any
ruling letter or headquarters ruling letter relating to the
enforcement of chapters 121 and 551 of title 46, United States
Code (commonly referred to as the ``Jones Act''), issued by the
Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection pursuant to
sections 502(a) or 625 of the Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C.
1502(a) and 1625).
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of Homeland Security, acting through the Commissioner of U.S.
Customs and Border Protection.
SEC. 302. NOTIFICATION.
(a) Advance Notification Required.--Prior to engaging in any
activity or operations on the outer Continental Shelf, the operator of
a foreign vessel used in such activity or operations shall file with
the Secretary a notification describing all activities and operations
to be performed on the outer Continental Shelf and an identification of
applicable ruling letters issued by the Secretary that have approved
the use of a foreign vessel in a substantially similar activity or
operation.
(b) Publication of Notices.--
(1) Publication.--The Secretary shall publish a
notification under subsection (a) in the Customs Bulletin and
Decisions within 14 days of receipt of such notification.
(2) Confidential information.--The Secretary shall redact
any information exempt from disclosure under section 552 of
title 5, United States Code, in a notification published under
paragraph (1).
SEC. 303. PUBLICATION OF FINES AND PENALTIES.
(a) In General.--Section 55102 of title 46, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(d) Publication of Penalty.--
``(1) In general.--Not later than 14 days after the
issuance of a pre-penalty notice or a penalty, including a
settlement, under subsection (c), the Secretary of Homeland
Security shall publish such pre-penalty notice or a
notification of such penalty in the Customs Bulletin and
Decisions to the party impacted by the penalty.
``(2) Contents.--A pre-penalty notice or penalty
notification published under paragraph (1) shall include--
``(A) the name and the International Maritime
Organization identification number of the vessel that
is the subject of the penalty;
``(B) the name of the owner of the vessel that is
the subject of the penalty;
``(C) the amount of the fine or value of
merchandise seized; and
``(D) a summary of the alleged misconduct and
justification for imposing a penalty.''.
(b) Rulemaking.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Secretary shall issue such regulations as are
necessary to implement the amendments made by subsection (a),
including--
(1) regulations regarding the information to be contained
in a penalty notification under section 55102(d) of title 46,
United States Code (as amended by such subsection); and
(2) any changes to existing regulations relating to
penalties issued by the Secretary.
Subtitle B--Merchant Mariner Credentialing
SEC. 311. REVISING MERCHANT MARINER DECK TRAINING REQUIREMENTS.
(a) General Definitions.--Section 2101 of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (20) through (56) as
paragraphs (21) through (57), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (19) the following:
``(20) `merchant mariner credential' means a merchant
mariner license, certificate, or document that the Secretary is
authorized to issue pursuant to this title.''.
(b) Examinations.--Section 7116 of title 46, United States Code, is
amended by striking subsection (c).
(c) Merchant Mariners Documents.--
(1) General requirements.--Section 7306 of title 46, United
States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 7306. General requirements and classifications for members of
deck departments
``(a) In General.--The Secretary may issue a merchant mariner
credential, to members of the deck department in the following classes:
``(1) Able Seaman-Unlimited.
``(2) Able Seaman-Limited.
``(3) Able Seaman-Special.
``(4) Able Seaman-Offshore Supply Vessels.
``(5) Able Seaman-Sail.
``(6) Able Seaman-Fishing Industry.
``(7) Ordinary Seaman.
``(b) Classification of Credentials.--The Secretary may classify
the merchant mariner credential issued under subsection (a) based on--
``(1) the tonnage and means of propulsion of vessels;
``(2) the waters on which vessels are to be operated; or
``(3) other appropriate standards.
``(c) Considerations.--In issuing the credential under subsection
(a), the Secretary may consider the following qualifications of the
merchant mariner:
``(1) Age.
``(2) Character.
``(3) Habits of life.
``(4) Experience.
``(5) Professional qualifications demonstrated by
satisfactory completion of applicable examinations or other
educational requirements.
``(6) Physical condition, including sight and hearing.
``(7) Other requirements established by the Secretary,
including career patterns and service appropriate to the
particular service, industry, or job functions the individual
is engaged.''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking the item
relating to section 7306 and inserting the following:
``7306. General requirements and classifications for members of deck
departments.''.
(3) General requirements for members of engine
departments.--Section 7313(b) of title 46, United States Code,
is amended by striking ``and coal passer''.
(4) Training.--Section 7315 of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) by amending subsection (a) to read as follows:
``(a) Graduation from a nautical school program approved by the
Secretary may be substituted for the service requirements under
sections 7307-7312 and 7314.'';
(B) in subsection (b)--
(i) by striking ``one-third'' and inserting
``one-half''; and
(ii) by striking ``7307-7311 of this
title'' and inserting ``7307-7312 and 7314'';
and
(C) by striking subsection (c).
(d) Reduction of Lengths of Certain Periods of Service.--
(1) In general.--Title 46, United States Code, is amended
as follows:
(A) Section 7307 is amended by striking ``18
months'' and inserting ``3 years''.
(B) Section 7308 is amended by striking ``12
months'' and inserting ``18 months''.
(C) Section 7309 is amended by striking ``6
months'' and inserting ``12 months''.
(2) Temporary reduction of lengths of certain periods of
service.--Section 3534(j) of the National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31) is repealed.
(e) Merchant Mariner Credentials.--Section 7510 of title 46, United
States Code, is amended by striking subsection (d).
(f) Implementation.--The Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating shall implement the amended requirements under
subsections (c)(3), (c)(4), and (c)(6) of this section without regard
to chapters 5 and 6 of title 5, United States Code, and Executive
Orders 12866 and 13563 (5 U.S.C. 601 note).
SEC. 312. AMENDMENTS.
(a) In General.--The heading for part E of subtitle II of title 46,
United States Code, is amended by striking ``merchant seamen licenses,
certificates, and documents'' and inserting ``merchant mariner
credentials''.
(b) Able Seafarers--Unlimited.--
(1) In general.--The section heading for section 7307 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``seamen''
and inserting ``seafarers''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is further amended in the item
relating to section 7307 by striking ``seamen'' and inserting
``seafarers''.
(c) Able Seamen--Limited.--
(1) In general.--The section heading for section 7308 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``seamen''
and inserting ``seafarers''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is further amended in the item
relating to section 7308 by striking ``seamen'' and inserting
``seafarers''.
(d) Able Seafarers--Special.--
(1) In general.--The section heading for section 7309 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``seamen''
and inserting ``seafarers''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is further amended in the item
relating to section 7309 by striking ``seamen'' and inserting
``seafarers''.
(e) Able Seafarers--Offshore Supply Vessels.--
(1) In general.--The section heading for section 7310 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``seamen''
and inserting ``seafarers''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is further amended in the item
relating to section 7310 by striking ``seamen'' and inserting
``seafarers''.
(f) Able Seafarers--Sail.--
(1) In general.--The section heading for section 7311 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``seamen''
and inserting ``seafarers''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is further amended in the item
relating to section 7311 by striking ``seamen'' and inserting
``seafarers''.
(g) Able Seamen--Fishing Industry.--
(1) In general.--The section heading for section 7311a of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``seamen''
and inserting ``seafarers''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is further amended in the item
relating to section 7311a by striking ``seamen'' and inserting
``seafarers''.
(h) Parts E and F.--Parts E and F of subtitle II of title 46,
United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``seaman'' and inserting ``seafarer'' each
place it appears; and
(2) by striking ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers'' each
place it appears.
(i) Clerical Amendments.--The analysis for subtitle II of title 46,
United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the item relating to subtitle II by striking
``Seamen'' and inserting ``Seafarer''; and
(2) in the item relating to part E by striking ``MERCHANT
SEAMEN LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND DOCUMENTS'' and inserting
``MERCHANT MARINER CREDENTIALS''.
SEC. 313. RENEWAL OF MERCHANT MARINER LICENSES AND DOCUMENTS.
Section 7507 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(d) Renewal.--With respect to any renewal of an active merchant
mariner credential issued under this part that is not an extension
under subsection (a) or (b), such credential shall begin the day after
the expiration of the active credential of the credential holder.''.
SEC. 314. MERCHANT SEAMEN LICENSES, CERTIFICATES, AND DOCUMENTS;
MANNING OF VESSELS.
(a) Citizenship or Noncitizen Nationality.--
(1) In general.--Section 7102 of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) in the section heading by inserting ``or
noncitizen nationality'' after ``Citizenship''; and
(B) by inserting ``or noncitizen nationals (as such
term is described in section 308 of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1408)'' after ``citizens''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 71 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking the item
relating to section 7102 and inserting the following:
``7102. Citizenship or noncitizen nationality.''.
(b) Citizenship or Noncitizen Nationality Notation on Merchant
Mariners' Documents.--
(1) In general.--Section 7304 of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) in the section heading by inserting ``or
noncitizen nationality'' after ``Citizenship''; and
(B) by inserting ``or noncitizen national (as such
term is described in section 308 of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1408)'' after ``citizen''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 73 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking the item
relating to section 7304 and inserting the following:
``7304. Citizenship or noncitizen nationality on merchant mariners'
documents.''.
(c) Citizenship or Noncitizen Nationality.--
(1) In general.--Section 8103 of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(A) in the section heading by inserting ``or
noncitizen nationality'' after ``Citizenship'';
(B) in subsection (a) by inserting ``or noncitizen
national'' after ``citizen'';
(C) in subsection (b)--
(i) in paragraph (1)(A)(i) by inserting
``or noncitizen national'' after ``citizen'';
(ii) in paragraph (3) by inserting ``or
noncitizen nationality'' after ``citizenship'';
and
(iii) in paragraph (3)(C) by inserting ``or
noncitizen nationals'' after ``citizens'';
(D) in subsection (c) by inserting ``or noncitizen
nationals'' after ``citizens'';
(E) in subsection (d)--
(i) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``or
noncitizen nationals'' after ``citizens''; and
(ii) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``or
noncitizen national'' after ``citizen'' each
place it appears;
(F) in subsection (e) by inserting ``or noncitizen
national'' after ``citizen'' each place it appears;
(G) in subsection (i)(1)(A) by inserting ``or
noncitizen national'' after ``citizen'';
(H) in subsection (k)(1)(A) by inserting ``or
noncitizen national'' after ``citizen''; and
(I) by adding at the end the following:
``(l) Noncitizen National Defined.--In this section, the term
`noncitizen national' means an individual described in section 308 of
the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1408).''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 81 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking the item
relating to section 8103 and inserting the following:
``8103. Citizenship or noncitizen nationality and Navy Reserve
requirements.''.
(d) Command of Documented Vessels.--Section 12131(a) of title 46,
United States Code, is amended by inserting ``or noncitizen national
(as such term is described in section 308 of the Immigration and
Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1408))'' after ``citizen''.
(e) Invalidation of Certificates of Documentation.--Section
12135(2) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by inserting ``or
noncitizen national (as such term is described in section 308 of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1408))'' after ``citizen''.
Subtitle C--Vessel Safety
SEC. 321. GROSSLY NEGLIGENT OPERATIONS OF A VESSEL.
Section 2302(b) of title 46, United States Code, is amended to read
as follows:
``(b) Grossly Negligent Operation.--
``(1) Misdemeanor.--A person operating a vessel in a
grossly negligent manner that endangers the life, limb, or
property of a person commits a class A misdemeanor.
``(2) Felony.--A person operating a vessel in a grossly
negligent manner that results in serious bodily injury, as
defined in section 1365(h)(3) of title 18--
``(A) commits a class E felony; and
``(B) may be assessed a civil penalty of not more
than $35,000.''.
SEC. 322. ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE FOR SECURITY RISKS.
(a) Security Risk.--Section 7702(d)(1) of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (B) by redesignating clauses (i)
through (iv) as subclauses (I) through (IV), respectively (and
by conforming the margins accordingly);
(2) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and (B) as clauses
(i) and (ii), respectively (and by conforming the margins
accordingly);
(3) by striking ``an individual if--'' and inserting the
following: ``an individual--
``(A) if--'';
(4) in subparagraph (A)(ii)(IV), as so redesignated, by
striking the period at the end and inserting ``; or''; and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) if there is probable cause to believe that
the individual has violated company policy and is a
security risk that poses a threat to other individuals
on the vessel.''.
(b) Technical Amendment.--Section 2101(47)(B) of title 46, United
States Code (as so redesignated), is amended by striking ``; and'' and
inserting ``; or''.
SEC. 323. REQUIREMENTS FOR DUKW AMPHIBIOUS PASSENGER VESSELS.
Section 11502 of the James H. Inhofe National Defense Authorization
Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263) is amended--
(1) in the section header by striking ``dukw amphibious
passenger vessels'' and inserting ``commercial amphibious small
passenger vessels'';
(2) by striking ``DUKW amphibious passenger vessel'' each
place it appears and inserting ``commercial amphibious small
passenger vessel'';
(3) by striking ``DUKW amphibious passenger vessels'' each
place it appears and inserting ``commercial amphibious small
passenger vessels'';
(4) in subsection (h)--
(A) by striking ``Definitions'' and all that
follows through ``the term `appropriate congressional
committees''' and inserting ``Appropriate Congressional
Committees Defined.--The term `appropriate
congressional committees'''; and
(B) by striking paragraph (2); and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
``(i) Application.--This section shall
apply to amphibious vessels operating as a
small passenger vessel in waters subject to the
jurisdiction of the United States, as such term
is defined in section 2.38 of title 33, Code of
Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date
of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization
Act of 2024).''.
SEC. 324. RISK-BASED EXAMINATION OF TANK VESSELS.
Section 3714 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ``The Secretary'' and
inserting ``Except as provided in subsection (c), the
Secretary'';
(2) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d); and
(3) by inserting after subsection (b) the following:
``(c) Risk-Based Examination.--
``(1) In general.--With respect to examinations of foreign-
flagged vessels to which this chapter applies, the Secretary
may adopt a risk-based examination schedule to which such
vessels shall be examined and the frequency with which the
examinations occur.
``(2) Restriction.--The Secretary may not adopt a risk-
based examination schedule under paragraph (1) until the
Secretary has--
``(A) received and reviewed the study by the
National Academies required under section 8254(b) of
the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-
283);
``(B) conducted the assessment recommended in the
report of the Government Accountability Office
submitted under section 8254(a) of such Act;
``(C) concluded through such assessment that a
risk-based examination schedule provides not less than
the level of safety provided by the annual examinations
required under subsection (a)(1); and
``(D) provided the results of such assessment to
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of
the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate.''.
SEC. 325. PORTS AND WATERWAYS SAFETY.
(a) Waterfront Safety.--Section 70011(a) of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``, including damage or
destruction resulting from cyber incidents, transnational
organized crime, or foreign state threats'' after ``adjacent to
such waters''; and
(2) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``or harm resulting from
cyber incidents, transnational organized crime, or foreign
state threats'' after ``loss''.
(b) Regulation of Anchorage and Movement of Vessels During National
Emergency.--Section 70051 of title 46, United States Code, is amended
by inserting ``or cyber incidents, or transnational organized crime, or
foreign state threats,'' after ``threatened war, or invasion, or
insurrection, or subversive activity,''.
(c) Facility Visit by State Sponsor of Terrorism.--Section 70011(b)
of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (3) by striking ``and'' at the end;
(2) in paragraph (4) by striking the period at the end and
inserting ``; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(5) prohibiting a representative of a government of
country that the Secretary of State has determined has
repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism
under section 620A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22
U.S.C. 2371) from visiting a facility for which a facility
security plan is required under section 70103(c).''.
SEC. 326. STUDY ON BERING STRAIT VESSEL TRAFFIC PROJECTIONS AND
EMERGENCY RESPONSE POSTURE AT THE PORT OF POINT SPENCER,
ALASKA.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall seek to enter into an
agreement with the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and
Medicine, under which the Marine Board of the Transportation Research
Board (in this section referred to as the ``Board'') shall conduct a
study to--
(1) analyze commercial vessel traffic that transits through
the Bering Strait and projections for the growth of such
traffic during the 10-year period beginning after such date of
enactment; and
(2) assess the adequacy of emergency response capabilities
and infrastructure at the Port of Point Spencer, Alaska, to
address navigation safety risks and geographic challenges
necessary to conduct emergency maritime response operations in
the Arctic environment.
(b) Elements.--The study required under subsection (a) shall
include the following:
(1) An analysis of the volume and types of domestic and
international commercial vessel traffic through the Bering
Strait and the projected growth of such traffic, including a
summary of--
(A) the sizes, ages, and flag states of vessels;
and
(B) the oil and product tankers that are--
(i) in transit to or from Russia or China;
or
(ii) owned or operated by a Russian or
Chinese entity.
(2) An assessment of the state and adequacy of vessel
traffic services and oil spill and emergency response
capabilities in the vicinity of the Bering Strait, including
its approaches.
(3) A risk assessment of the projected growth in commercial
vessel traffic in the Bering Strait and higher probability of
increased frequency in the number of maritime accidents,
including spill events, and the potential impacts to the Arctic
maritime environment and Native Alaskan village communities in
the vicinity of the Bering Strait.
(4) An evaluation of the ability of the Port of Point
Spencer, Alaska, to serve as a port of refuge and as a staging,
logistics, and operations center to conduct and support
maritime emergency and spill response activities.
(5) Recommendations for practical actions that can be taken
by the Congress, Federal agencies, the State of Alaska, vessel
carriers and operators, the marine salvage and emergency
response industry, and other relevant stakeholders to mitigate
risks, upgrade infrastructure, and improve the posture of the
Port of Point Spencer, Alaska, to function as a strategic
staging and logistics center for maritime emergency and spill
response operations in the Bering Strait region.
(c) Consultation.--In conducting the study required under
subsection (a), the Board shall consult with--
(1) the Department of Transportation;
(2) the Corps of Engineers;
(3) the National Transportation Safety Board;
(4) relevant ministries of the Government of Canada;
(5) the Port Coordination Council for the Port of Point
Spencer; and
(6) non-government entities with relevant expertise in
monitoring and characterizing vessel traffic in the Arctic.
(d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after initiating the study under
subsection (a), the Board shall submit to the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a
report containing the findings and recommendations of the study.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Arctic.--The term ``Arctic'' has the meaning given such
term in section 112 of the Arctic Research and Policy Act of
1984 (15 U.S.C. 4111).
(2) Port coordination council for the port of point
spencer.--The term ``Port Coordination Council for the Port of
Point Spencer'' means the Council established under section 541
of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2015 (Public Law 114-
120).
SEC. 327. UNDERWATER INSPECTIONS BRIEF.
Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Commandant, or a designated individual, shall brief the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on
the underwater inspection in lieu of drydock program established under
section 176.615 of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect
on the date of enactment of this Act).
SEC. 328. ST. LUCIE RIVER RAILROAD BRIDGE.
Regarding Docket Number USCG-2022-0222, before adopting a final
rule, the Commandant shall conduct an independent boat traffic study at
mile 7.4 of the St. Lucie River.
SEC. 329. RULEMAKING REGARDING PORT ACCESS ROUTES.
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act,
the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating
shall issue a final rule for the Atlantic Coast Port Route Access Study
for which an Advanced Notice of Proposed Rulemaking titled ``Shipping
Safety Fairways Along the Atlantic Coast'' was issued on June 19, 2020.
Subtitle D--Other Matters
SEC. 341. ANCHOR HANDLING ACTIVITIES.
Section 12111(d) of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A) by inserting ``or other
energy production or transmission facility, or vessel
engaged in the launch, recovery, or support of
commercial space transportation or space exploration
activities'' after ``drilling unit''; and
(B) in subparagraph (B) by inserting ``or other
energy production or transmission facility, or vessel
engaged in the launch, recovery, or support of
commercial space transportation or space exploration
activities'' after ``drilling unit''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Energy production or transmission facility defined.--
In this subsection, the term `energy production or transmission
facility' means a floating offshore facility that is--
``(A) not a vessel;
``(B) securely and substantially moored to the
seabed, but not by driven pile anchors; and
``(C) equipped with wind turbines which are used
for the generation and transmission of renewable
energy.''.
SEC. 342. ESTABLISHMENT OF NATIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE ON AUTONOMOUS
MARITIME SYSTEMS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 151 of title 46, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 15110. Establishment of National Advisory Committee on
Autonomous Maritime Systems
``(a) Establishment.--There is established a National Advisory
Committee on Autonomous Maritime Systems (in this section referred to
as the `Committee').
``(b) Function.--The Committee shall advise the Secretary on
matters relating to the regulation and use of Autonomous Systems within
the territorial waters of the United States.
``(c) Membership.--
``(1) In general.--The Committee shall consist of 9 members
appointed by the Secretary in accordance with this section and
section 15109.
``(2) Expertise.--Each member of the Committee shall have
particular expertise, knowledge, and experience in matters
relating to the function of the Committee.
``(3) Representation.--Each of the following groups shall
be represented by at least 1 member on the Committee:
``(A) Marine safety or security entities.
``(B) Vessel design and construction entities.
``(C) Entities engaged in the production or
research of unmanned vehicles, including drones,
autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, or any other
product or service integral to the provision,
maintenance, or management of such products or
services.
``(D) Port districts, authorities, or terminal
operators.
``(E) Vessel operators.
``(F) National labor unions representing merchant
mariners.
``(G) Maritime pilots.
``(H) Commercial space transportation operators.
``(I) Academic institutions.''.
(b) Clerical Amendments.--The analysis for chapter 151 of title 46,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``15110. Establishment of National Advisory Committee on Autonomous
Maritime Systems.''.
(c) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating shall establish the Committee under section
15110 of title 46, United States Code (as added by this section).
SEC. 343. CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE ONBOARD VESSELS.
Section 70503(a) of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by striking
``While on board a covered vessel, an individual'' and
inserting ``An individual'';
(2) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
``(1) manufacture or distribute, possess with intent to
manufacture or distribute, or place or cause to be placed with
intent to manufacture or distribute a controlled substance on
board a covered vessel;''; and
(3) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``aboard a covered
vessel'' after ``Comprehensive Drug Abuse Prevention and
Control Act of 1970 (21 U.S.C. 881(a))''.
SEC. 344. NONOPERATING INDIVIDUAL.
Section 8313(b) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National Defense
Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 116-283) is amended
by striking ``2025'' and inserting ``2027''.
SEC. 345. INFORMATION ON TYPE APPROVAL CERTIFICATES.
(a) In General.--Title IX of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard
Authorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-282) is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``SEC. 904. INFORMATION ON TYPE APPROVAL CERTIFICATES.
``The Commandant of the Coast Guard shall, upon request by any
State, the District of Columbia, or any territory of the United States,
provide all data possessed by the Coast Guard pertaining to challenge
water quality characteristics, challenge water biological organism
concentrations, post-treatment water quality characteristics, and post-
treatment biological organism concentrations data for a ballast water
management system with a type approval certificate approved by the
Coast Guard pursuant to subpart 162.060 of title 46, Code of Federal
Regulations.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 2 of the
Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-
282) is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 903 the
following:
``Sec. 904. Information on type approval certificates.''.
SEC. 346. MANNING AND CREWING REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN VESSELS,
VEHICLES, AND STRUCTURES.
(a) Authorization of Limited Exemptions From Manning and Crew
Requirement.--Chapter 81 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by
adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 8109. Exemptions from manning and crew requirements
``(a) In General.--The Secretary may provide an exemption described
in subsection (b) to the owner or operator of a covered facility if
each individual who is manning or crewing the covered facility is--
``(1) a citizen of the United States;
``(2) an alien lawfully admitted to the United States for
permanent residence; or
``(3) a citizen of the nation under the laws of which the
vessel is documented.
``(b) Requirements for Eligibility for Exemption.--An exemption
under this subsection is an exemption from the regulations established
pursuant to section 302(a)(3) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act
(43 U.S.C. 1356(a)(3)).
``(c) Limitations.--An exemption under this section--
``(1) shall provide that the number of individuals manning
or crewing the covered facility who are described in paragraphs
(2) and (3) of subsection (a) may not exceed two and one-half
times the number of individuals required to man or crew the
covered facility under the laws of the nation under the laws of
which the covered facility is documented; and
``(2) shall be effective for not more than 12 months, but
may be renewed by application to and approval by the Secretary.
``(d) Application.--To be eligible for an exemption or a renewal of
an exemption under this section, the owner or operator of a covered
facility shall apply to the Secretary with an application that includes
a sworn statement by the applicant of all information required for the
issuance of the exemption.
``(e) Revocation.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary--
``(A) may revoke an exemption for a covered
facility under this section if the Secretary determines
that information provided in the application for the
exemption was false or incomplete, or is no longer true
or complete; and
``(B) shall immediately revoke such an exemption if
the Secretary determines that the covered facility, in
the effective period of the exemption, was manned or
crewed in a manner not authorized by the exemption.
``(2) Notice required.--The Secretary shall provides notice
of a determination under subparagraph (A) or (B) of paragraph
(1) to the owner or operator of the covered facility.
``(f) Review of Compliance.--The Secretary shall periodically, but
not less than once annually, inspect each covered facility that
operates under an exemption under this section to verify the owner or
operator of the covered facility's compliance with the exemption.
During an inspection under this subsection, the Secretary shall require
all crew members serving under the exemption to hold a valid
transportation security card issued under section 70105.
``(g) Penalty.--In addition to revocation under subsection (e), the
Secretary may impose on the owner or operator of a covered facility a
civil penalty of $10,000 per day for each day the covered facility--
``(1) is manned or crewed in violation of an exemption
under this subsection; or
``(2) operated under an exemption under this subsection
that the Secretary determines was not validly obtained.
``(h) Notification of Secretary of State.--The Secretary shall
notify the Secretary of State of each exemption issued under this
section, including the effective period of the exemption.
``(i) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Covered facility.--The term `covered facility' means
any vessel, rig, platform, or other vehicle or structure, over
50 percent of which is owned by citizens of a foreign nation or
with respect to which the citizens of a foreign nation have the
right effectively to control, except to the extent and to the
degree that the President determines that the government of
such foreign nation or any of its political subdivisions has
implemented, by statute, regulation, policy, or practice, a
national manning requirement for equipment engaged in the
exploring for, developing, or producing resources, including
non-mineral energy resources in its offshore areas.
``(2) Secretary.--The term `Secretary' means the Secretary
of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating.''.
(b) Annual Report.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Secretary
of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall
submit to Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the
House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing
information on each letter of nonapplicability of section 8109
of title 46, United States Code, with respect to a covered
facility that was issued by the Secretary during the preceding
year.
(2) Contents.--The report under paragraph (1) shall
include, for each covered facility--
(A) the name and International Maritime
Organization number;
(B) the nation in which the covered facility is
documented;
(C) the nationality of owner or owners; and
(D) for any covered facility that was previously
issued a letter of nonapplicability in a prior year,
any changes in the information described in
subparagraphs (A) through (C).
(c) Regulations.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall promulgate regulations that
specify the documentary and other requirements for the issuance of an
exemption under the amendment made by this section.
(d) Existing Exemptions.--
(1) Effect of amendments; termination.--Each exemption
under section 30(c)(2) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act
(43 U.S.C. 1356(c)(2)) issued before the date of the enactment
of this Act--
(A) shall not be affected by the amendments made by
this section during the 120-day period beginning on the
date of the enactment of this Act; and
(B) shall not be effective after such period.
(2) Notification of holders.--Not later than 60 days after
the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall
notify all persons that hold such an exemption that it will
expire as provided in paragraph (1).
(e) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 81 of the title
46, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``8109. Exemptions from manning and crew requirements.''.
SEC. 347. CLASSIFICATION SOCIETIES.
Section 3316(d) of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by amending paragraph (2)(B)(i) to read as follows:
``(i) the government of the foreign country
in which the foreign society is headquartered--
``(I) delegates that authority to
the American Bureau of Shipping; or
``(II) does not delegate that
authority to any classification
society; or''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(5) Clarification on authority.--Nothing in this
subsection authorizes the Secretary to make a delegation under
paragraph (2) to a classification society from the People's
Republic of China.''.
SEC. 348. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH SAFETY ZONES FOR SPECIAL ACTIVITIES IN
EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE.
(a) Repeal.--Section 8343 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry
National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law
116-283) is repealed.
(b) Special Activities in Exclusive Economic Zone.--Subchapter IV
of chapter 700 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``Sec. 70037. Special activities in exclusive economic zone
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating may establish safety zones to address special
activities in the exclusive economic zone.
``(b) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Safety zone.--The term `safety zone'--
``(A) means a water area, shore area, or water and
shore area to which, for safety or environmental
purposes, access is limited to authorized persons,
vehicles, or vessels; and
``(B) may be stationary and described by fixed
limits or may be described as a zone around a vessel in
motion.
``(2) Special activities.--The term `special activities'
includes--
``(A) space activities, including launch and
reentry (as such terms are defined in section 50902 of
title 51) carried out by United States citizens; and
``(B) offshore energy development activities, as
described in section 8(p)(1)(C) of the Outer
Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1337(p)(1)(C)),
on or near fixed platforms (as such term is defined in
section 2281(d) of title 18).
``(3) United states citizen.--The term `United States
citizen' has the meaning given the term `eligible owners' in
section 12103 of title 46, United States Code.''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 700 of title 46,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 70036 the following:
``70037. Special activities in exclusive economic zone.''.
SEC. 349. FISHING VESSEL AND FISHERMAN TRAINING SAFETY.
Section 4502 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (i)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)(ii) by striking ``;
and'' and inserting a semicolon;
(ii) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as
subparagraph (C); and
(iii) by inserting after subparagraph (A)
the following:
``(B) to conduct safety and prevention training
that addresses behavioral and physical health risks, to
include substance use disorder and worker fatigue,
facing fishing vessel operators and crewmembers; and'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by striking ``, in consultation with
and based on criteria established by the
Commandant of the Coast Guard''; and
(ii) by striking ``subsection on a
competitive basis'' and inserting the
following: ``subsection--
``(A) on a competitive basis; and
``(B) based on criteria developed in consultation
with the Commandant of the Coast Guard.''; and
(C) in paragraph (4) by striking ``$3,000,000 for
fiscal year 2023'' and inserting ``to the Secretary of
Health and Human Services $6,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2025 and 2026''; and
(2) in subsection (j)--
(A) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``, and
understanding and mitigating behavioral and physical
health risks, to include substance use disorder and
worker fatigue, facing members of the commercial
fishing industry'' after ``weather detection'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by striking ``, in consultation with
and based on criteria established by the
Commandant of the Coast Guard,''; and
(ii) by striking ``subsection on a
competitive basis'' and inserting the
following: ``subsection--
``(A) on a competitive basis; and
``(B) based on criteria developed in consultation
with the Commandant of the Coast Guard.''; and
(C) in paragraph (4) by striking ``$3,000,000 for
fiscal year 2023'' and inserting ``to the Secretary of
Health and Human Services $6,000,000 for each of fiscal
years 2025 and 2026''.
SEC. 350. AUTHORITY OVER DEEPWATER PORT ACT OF 1974.
(a) In General.--Section 5(a) of the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 (33
U.S.C. 1504(a)) is amended by striking the first sentence and inserting
``Notwithstanding section 888(b) of the Homeland Security Act of 2002
(6 U.S.C. 468(b)), the Secretary shall have the sole authority to issue
regulations to carry out the purposes and provisions of this Act, in
accordance with the provisions of section 553 of title 5, United States
Code, without regard to subsection (a) thereof.''.
(b) Affirming the Authority of Secretary of Transportation Over
Environmental Reviews.--Section 5(f) of the Deepwater Port Act of 1974
(33 U.S.C. 1504(f) is amended to read as follows:
``(f) Compliance.--Notwithstanding section 888(b) of the Homeland
Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 468(b)), the Secretary, in cooperation
with other involved Federal agencies and departments, shall comply with
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.)
and act as the lead agency under section 4336a of title 42, United
States Code, for all applications under this Act. Such compliance shall
fulfill the requirement of all Federal agencies in carrying out their
responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
pursuant to this chapter.''.
(c) Regulations.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 6 months after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall transfer the
authorities provided to the Coast Guard in part 148 of title
33, Code of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of
the enactment of this Act), except as provided in paragraph
(2), to the Secretary of Transportation.
(2) Retention of authority.--The Commandant shall retain
responsibility for authorities pertaining to navigational
safety.
(3) Updates to authority.--As soon as practicable after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall issue such
regulations as are necessary to reflect the updates to
authorities prescribed by this subsection.
(d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section, or the
amendments made by this section, may be construed to limit the
authorities of other governmental agencies previously delegated
authorities of the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 (33 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.).
(e) Applications.--Nothing in this section shall apply to any
application submitted before the date of enactment of this Act.
SEC. 351. NATIONAL OFFSHORE SAFETY ADVISORY COMMITTEE COMPOSITION.
Section 15106(c) of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``15 members'' and
inserting ``17 members''; and
(2) in paragraph (3) by adding at the end the following:
``(L) 2 members shall represent entities engaged in
non-mineral energy activities on the Outer Continental
Shelf.''.
SEC. 352. IMPROVING VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICE MONITORING.
(a) Proximity of Anchorages to Pipelines.--
(1) Implementation of restructuring plan.--Not later than 1
year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant
shall implement the November 2021 proposed plan of the Vessel
Traffic Service Los Angeles-Long Beach for restructuring the
Federal anchorages in San Pedro Bay described on page 54 of the
Report of the National Transportation Safety Board titled
``Anchor Strike of Underwater Pipeline and Eventual Crude Oil
Release'' and issued January 2, 2024.
(2) Study.--The Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating shall conduct a study to identify any
anchorage grounds other than the San Pedro Bay Federal
anchorages in which the distance between the center of an
approved anchorage ground and a pipeline is less than 1 mile.
(3) Report.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall
submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of
the Senate a report on the results of the study
required under paragraph (2).
(B) Contents.--The report under subparagraph (A)
shall include--
(i) a list of the anchorage grounds
described under paragraph (2);
(ii) whether it is possible to move each
such anchorage ground to provide a minimum
distance of 1 mile; and
(iii) a recommendation of whether to move
any such anchorage ground and explanation for
the recommendation.
(b) Proximity to Pipeline Alerts.--
(1) Audible and visual alarms.--The Commandant shall
consult with the providers of vessel monitoring systems to add
to the monitoring systems for vessel traffic services audible
and visual alarms that alert the watchstander when an anchored
vessel is encroaching on a pipeline.
(2) Notification procedures.--Not later than 1 year after
the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall develop
procedures for all vessel traffic services to notify pipeline
and utility operators following potential incursions on
submerged pipelines within the vessel traffic service area of
responsibility.
(3) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter, the Commandant
shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
Senate a report on the implementation of paragraphs (1) and
(2).
SEC. 353. ABANDONED AND DERELICT VESSEL REMOVALS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 47 of title 46, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in the chapter heading by striking ``BARGES'' and
inserting ``VESSELS'';
(2) by inserting before section 4701 the following:
``SUBCHAPTER I--BARGES'';
and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``SUBCHAPTER II--NON-BARGE VESSELS
``Sec. 4710. Definitions
``In this subchapter:
``(1) Abandon.--The term `abandon' means to moor, strand,
wreck, sink, or leave a covered vessel unattended for longer
than 45 days.
``(2) Covered vessel.--The term `covered vessel' means a
vessel that is not a barge to which subchapter I applies.
``(3) Indian tribe.--The term `Indian Tribe' has the
meaning given such term in section 4 of the Indian Self-
Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304).
``Sec. 4711. Abandonment of vessels prohibited
``(a) In General.--An owner or operator of a covered vessel may not
abandon such vessel on the navigable waters of the United States.
``(b) Determination of Abandonment.--
``(1) Notification.--
``(A) In general.--With respect to a covered vessel
that appears to be abandoned, the Commandant of the
Coast Guard shall--
``(i) attempt to identify the owner using
the vessel registration number, hull
identification number, or any other information
that can be reasonably inferred or gathered;
and
``(ii) notify such owner--
``(I) of the penalty described in
subsection (c); and
``(II) that the vessel will be
removed at the expense of the owner if
the Commandant determines that the
vessel is abandoned and the owner does
not remove or account for the vessel.
``(B) Form.--The Commandant shall provide the
notice required under subparagraph (A)--
``(i) if the owner can be identified, via
certified mail or other appropriate forms
determined by the Commandant; or
``(ii) if the owner cannot be identified,
via an announcement in a local publication and
on a website maintained by the Coast Guard.
``(2) Determination.--The Commandant shall make a
determination not earlier than 45 days after the date on which
the Commandant provides the notification required under
paragraph (1) of whether a covered vessel described in such
paragraph is abandoned.
``(c) Penalty.--
``(1) In general.--The Commandant may assess a civil
penalty of not more than $500 against an owner or operator of a
covered vessel determined to be abandoned under subsection (b)
for a violation of subsection (a).
``(2) Liability in rem.--The owner or operator of a covered
vessel shall also be liable in rem for a penalty imposed under
paragraph (1).
``(d) Vessels Not Abandoned.--The Commandant may not determine that
a covered vessel is abandoned under this section if--
``(1) such vessel is located at a federally approved or
State approved mooring area;
``(2) such vessel is located on private property with the
permission of the owner of such property; or
``(3) the owner or operator of such vessel provides a
notification to the Commandant that--
``(A) indicates the location of the vessel;
``(B) indicates that the vessel is not abandoned;
and
``(C) contains documentation proving that the
vessel is allowed to be in such location.
``Sec. 4712. Inventory of abandoned vessels
``(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this section, the Commandant, in consultation with the
Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
and relevant State agencies, shall establish and maintain a national
inventory of covered vessels that are abandoned.
``(b) Contents.--The inventory established and maintained under
subsection (a) shall include data on each vessel, including geographic
information system data related to the location of each such vessel.
``(c) Publication.--The Commandant shall make the inventory
established under subsection (a) publicly available on a website of the
Coast Guard.
``(d) Reporting of Potentially Abandoned Vessels.--In carrying out
this section, the Commandant shall develop a process by which--
``(1) a State, Indian Tribe, or person may report a covered
vessel that may be abandoned to the Commandant for potential
inclusion in the inventory established under subsection (a);
and
``(2) the Commandant shall review any such report and add
such vessel to the inventory if the Commandant determines that
the reported vessel is abandoned pursuant to section 4711.''.
(b) Rulemaking.--The Secretary of the department in which the Coast
Guard is operating, in consultation with the Secretary of the Army,
acting through the Chief of Engineers, and the Secretary of Commerce,
acting through the Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere, shall
issue regulations with respect to the procedures for determining that a
vessel is abandoned for the purposes of subchapter II of chapter 47 of
title 46, United States Code (as added by this section).
(c) Conforming Amendments.--Chapter 47 of title 46, United States
Code, is amended--
(1) in section 4701--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by
striking ``chapter'' and inserting ``subchapter''; and
(B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``chapter'' and
inserting ``subchapter'';
(2) in section 4703 by striking ``chapter'' and inserting
``subchapter'';
(3) in section 4704 by striking ``chapter'' each place it
appears and inserting ``subchapter''; and
(4) in section 4705 by striking ``chapter'' and inserting
``subchapter''.
(d) Clerical Amendments.--The analysis for chapter 47 of title 46,
United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting before the item relating to section 4701
the following:
``subchapter i--barges'';
and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``subchapter ii--vessels
``4710. Definitions.
``4711. Abandonment of vessels prohibited.
``4712. Inventory of abandoned vessels.''.
TITLE IV--OIL POLLUTION INCIDENT LIABILITY
SEC. 401. VESSEL RESPONSE PLANS.
(a) In General.--Section 311(j)(6) of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321(j)(6)) is amended to read as follows:
``(6) Equipment requirements, verification, and
inspection.--
``(A) In general.--The President may require--
``(i) periodic inspection of containment
booms, skimmers, vessels, and other major
equipment used to remove discharges;
``(ii) periodic inspection of vessels,
salvage and marine firefighting equipment, and
other major equipment used to respond to marine
casualties or prevent discharges;
``(iii) periodic verification of
capabilities to appropriately, and in a timely
manner, respond to a marine casualty, a worst
case discharge, or a substantial threat of a
discharge, including--
``(I) drills, with or without prior
notice;
``(II) review of contracts and
relevant third-party agreements;
``(III) testing of equipment;
``(IV) review of training; and
``(V) other evaluations of response
capabilities, as determined appropriate
by the President; and
``(iv) vessels operating on navigable
waters and carrying oil or a hazardous
substance in bulk as cargo, and nontank vessels
carrying oil of any kind as fuel for main
propulsion, to carry appropriate removal
equipment that employs the best technology
economically feasible and that is compatible
with the safe operation of the vessel.
``(B) Marine casualty.--In this paragraph, the term
`marine casualty' means a marine casualty that is
required to be reported pursuant to section 6101 of
title 46, United States Code.''.
(b) Report to Congress.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United
States shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
Senate a report on the state of marine firefighting
authorities, jurisdiction, plan review, and other
considerations with respect to vessel fires at waterfront
facilities and within the navigable waters of the United States
up to 3 nautical miles from the shoreline.
(2) Contents.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the
Comptroller General shall--
(A) examine factors that affect Federal and non-
Federal collaboration aimed at reducing vessel and
waterfront facility fire risk to local communities;
(B) focus on the prevalence and frequency of vessel
fires described in paragraph (1); and
(C) make recommendations for preparedness,
responses to, training for, and other items for
consideration.
SEC. 402. USE OF MARINE CASUALTY INVESTIGATIONS.
Section 6308 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a) by striking ``initiated'' and
inserting ``conducted''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) For purposes of this section, an administrative proceeding
conducted by the United States includes proceedings under section 7701
and claims adjudicated under section 1013 of the Oil Pollution Act of
1990 (33 U.S.C. 2713).''.
SEC. 403. TIMING OF REVIEW.
Section 1017 of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (33 U.S.C. 2717) is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``(g) Timing of Review.--Before the date of completion of a removal
action, no person may bring an action under this Act, section 311 of
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321), or chapter 7
of title 5, United States Code, challenging any decision relating to
such removal action that is made by an on-scene coordinator appointed
under the National Contingency Plan.''.
SEC. 404. ONLINE INCIDENT REPORTING SYSTEM.
(a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment
of this Act, the National Response Center shall--
(1) develop an online capacity through a web-based
application to receive a notification of an oil discharge or
release of a hazardous substance; and
(2) allow any such notification to the National Response
Center that is required under Federal law or regulation to be
made online using the application.
(b) Use of Application.--In carrying out subsection (a), the
National Response Center may not require the notification of an oil
discharge or release of a hazardous substance to be made using the
application developed under such subsection.
TITLE V--IMPLEMENTATION OF ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY REVIEW
RECOMMENDATIONS
SEC. 501. IMPLEMENTATION STATUS OF DIRECTED ACTIONS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 51 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 5116. Implementation status of directed actions
``(a) In General.--Not later than March 1, 2025, and not later than
March 1 of each of the 3 subsequent years thereafter, the Commandant
shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of
the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation of the Senate a report on the status of the
implementation of each directed action outlined in enclosure 1 of the
memorandum of the Commandant titled `Commandant's Directed Actions--
Accountability and Transparency', dated November 27, 2023.
``(b) Contents.--The report required under section (a) shall
contain the following:
``(1) The status of the implementation of each directed
action from enclosure 1 of the memorandum titled `Commandant's
Directed Actions--Accountability and Transparency' dated
November 27, 2023.
``(2) A plan and timeline for the next steps to be taken to
complete outstanding directed actions in enclosure 1 of the
memorandum titled `Commandant's Directed Actions--
Accountability and Transparency' dated November 27, 2023,
including identifying the individual the Commandant has
selected to ensure the successful completion of each directed
action.
``(3) Metrics to determine the effectiveness of each
directed action in such enclosure.
``(4) Any additional actions the Commandant is taking to
mitigate instances of sexual assault and sexual harassment
within the Coast Guard.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 51 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``5116. Implementation status of directed actions.''.
SEC. 502. INDEPENDENT REVIEW OF COAST GUARD REFORMS.
(a) Government Accountability Office Report.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United
States shall report to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
Senate on the efforts of the Coast Guard to mitigate cases of
sexual assault and sexual harassment within the service.
(2) Elements.--The report required under paragraph (1)
shall--
(A) evaluate--
(i) the efforts of the Commandant to
implement the directed actions from enclosure 1
of the memorandum titled ``Commandant's
Directed Actions--Accountability and
Transparency'' dated November 27, 2023;
(ii) whether the Commandant met the
reporting requirements under section 5112 of
title 14, United States Code; and
(iii) the effectiveness of the actions of
the Coast Guard, including efforts outside of
the actions described in the memorandum titled
``Commandant's Directed Actions--Accountability
and Transparency'' dated November 27, 2023, to
mitigate instances of sexual assault and sexual
harassment and improve the enforcement relating
to such instances within the Coast Guard, and
how the Coast Guard is overcoming challenges in
implementing such actions;
(B) make recommendations to the Commandant for
improvements to the efforts of the service to mitigate
instances of sexual assault and sexual harassment and
improve the enforcement relating to such instances
within the Coast Guard; and
(C) make recommendations to the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation of the Senate to mitigate instances
of sexual assault and sexual harassment in the Coast
Guard and improve the enforcement relating to such
instances within the Coast Guard, including proposed
changes to any legislative authorities.
(b) Report by Commandant.--Not later than 90 days after the date on
which the Comptroller General completes all actions under subsection
(a), the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that
includes the following:
(1) A plan for Coast Guard implementation, including
interim milestones and timeframes, of any recommendation made
by the Comptroller General under subsection (a)(2)(B) with
which the Commandant concurs.
(2) With respect to any recommendation made under
subsection (a)(2)(B) with which the Commandant does not concur,
an explanation of the reasons why the Commandant does not
concur.
SEC. 503. REQUIREMENT TO MAINTAIN CERTAIN RECORDS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 9 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 955. Requirement to maintain certain records
``(a) In General.--The Commandant shall maintain all work product
related to final action documenting a disposition decision on an
investigation by the Coast Guard Investigative Service or other law
enforcement entity investigating a Coast Guard member accused of
misconduct for not less than 7 years from date of the disposition
decision.
``(b) Final Action Memo.--Upon a final action documenting a
disposition decision described in subsection (a), the convening
authority or final decision making authority, as applicable, shall sign
a final action memo that includes the following:
``(1) A reference section listing the materials reviewed in
making a disposition decision.
``(2) The Coast Guard Investigative Service report of
investigation listed as either a reference or an enclosure.
``(3) The prosecution memo, signed by the convening
authority or the final decision making authority, listed and
included as an enclosure.
``(4) The completed Coast Guard Investigative Service
report of adjudication listed and included as an enclosure.
``(5) The disposition decision.
``(c) Work Product.--In this section, the term `work product'
includes--
``(1) a prosecution memo;
``(2) emails, notes, and other correspondence related to a
disposition decision; and
``(3) the content described in paragraphs (1) through (5)
of subsection (b).''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 9 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``955. Requirement to maintain certain records.''.
SEC. 504. STUDY ON COAST GUARD ACADEMY OVERSIGHT.
(a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment
of this Act, the Commandant, in consultation with relevant
stakeholders, shall conduct a study on the governance of the Coast
Guard Academy, including examining the roles, responsibilities,
authorities, advisory functions, and membership qualifications and
expertise of the Board of Visitors and Board of Trustees of such
Academy.
(b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a
written report that contains--
(1) the results of the study required under subsection (a);
and
(2) recommendations to improve governance at the Coast
Guard Academy.
SEC. 505. PROVIDING FOR THE TRANSFER OF A CADET WHO IS THE VICTIM OF A
SEXUAL ASSAULT OR RELATED OFFENSE.
Section 1902 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(f) Consideration of Request for Transfer of Cadet Who Is the
Victim of Sexual Assault or Related Offense.--
``(1) In general.--The Commandant shall provide for timely
consideration of and action on a request submitted by a cadet
appointed to the Coast Guard Academy who is the victim of an
alleged sexual assault or other offense covered by section 920,
920c, or 930 of title 10 (article 120, 120c, or 130 of the
Uniform Code of Military Justice) for transfer to a Service
Academy or to enroll in a Senior Reserve Officers' Training
Corps program affiliated with another institution of higher
education.
``(2) Rulemaking.--The Commandant shall prescribe
regulations to carry out this subsection that--
``(A) ensure that any cadet who has been appointed
to the Coast Guard Academy is informed of the right to
request a transfer pursuant to this subsection, and
that any formal request submitted by a cadet is
processed as expeditiously as practicable for review
and action by the Superintendent;
``(B) direct the Superintendent of the Coast Guard
Academy, in coordination with the Superintendent of the
Service Academy to which the cadet requests to
transfer--
``(i) to act on a request for transfer
under this subsection not later than 72 hours
after receiving the formal request from the
cadet;
``(ii) to approve such request for transfer
unless there are exceptional circumstances that
require denial of the request; and
``(iii) upon approval of such request, to
take all necessary and appropriate action to
effectuate the transfer of the cadet to the
Service Academy concerned as expeditiously as
possible; and
``(C) direct the Superintendent of the Coast Guard
Academy, in coordination with the Secretary of the
military department that sponsors the Senior Reserve
Officers' Training Corps program at the institution of
higher education to which the cadet requests to
transfer--
``(i) to act on a request for transfer
under this subsection not later than 72 hours
after receiving the formal request from the
cadet;
``(ii) subject to the cadet's acceptance
for admission to the institution of higher
education to which the cadet wishes to
transfer, to approve such request for transfer
unless there are exceptional circumstances that
require denial of the request; and
``(iii) to take all necessary and
appropriate action to effectuate the cadet's
enrollment in the institution of higher
education to which the cadet wishes to transfer
and to process the cadet for participation in
the relevant Senior Reserve Officers' Training
Corps program as expeditiously as possible.
``(3) Denial of transfer request.--If the Superintendent of
the Coast Guard Academy denies a request for transfer under
this subsection, the cadet may request review of the denial by
the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is
operating, who shall act on such request not later than 72
hours after receipt of the formal request for review.
``(4) Confidentiality of records.--The Secretary of the
Department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall ensure
that all records of any request, determination, transfer, or
other action under this subsection remain confidential,
consistent with applicable law and regulation.
``(5) Appointment to service academy.--A cadet who
transfers under this subsection may retain the cadet's
appointment to the Coast Guard Academy or may be appointed to
the Service Academy to which the cadet transfers without regard
to the limitations and requirements described in sections 7442,
8454, and 9442 of title 10.
``(6) Appointment upon graduation.--
``(A) Preference.--A cadet who transfers under this
subsection to a Service Academy, is entitled, before
graduating from such Academy, to state the preference
of the cadet for appointment, upon graduation, as a
commissioned officer in the Coast Guard.
``(B) Manner of appointment.--Upon graduation, a
cadet described in subparagraph (A) is entitled to be
accepted for appointment as a permanent commissioned
officer in the Regular Coast Guard in the same manner
as graduates of the Coast Guard Academy as described in
section 2101.
``(7) Commission into coast guard.--A cadet who transfers
under this subsection to a Senior Reserve Officers' Training
Corps program affiliated with another institution of higher
education is entitled upon graduation from the Senior Reserve
Officers' Training program to commission into the Coast Guard
as described in section 3738a.
``(8) Service academy defined.--In this subsection, the
term `Service Academy' has the meaning given such term in
section 347 of title 10.''.
SEC. 506. DESIGNATION OF OFFICERS WITH PARTICULAR EXPERTISE IN MILITARY
JUSTICE OR HEALTHCARE.
(a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 21 of title 14, United
States Code is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 2132. Designation of officers with particular expertise in
military justice or healthcare
``(a) Secretary Designation.--The Secretary may designate a limited
number of officers of the Coast Guard as having particular expertise
in--
``(1) military justice; or
``(2) healthcare.
``(b) Promotion and Grade.--An individual designated under this
section--
``(1) shall not be included on the active duty promotion
list;
``(2) shall be promoted under section 2126; and
``(3) may not be promoted to a grade higher than
captain.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 21 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 2131 the following:
``2132. Designation of officers with particular expertise in military
justice or healthcare.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 2102(a) of title 14, United States Code, is
amended, in the second sentence, by striking ``and officers of
the permanent commissioned teaching staff of the Coast Guard
Academy'' and inserting ``officers of the permanent
commissioned teaching staff of the Coast Guard Academy, and
officers designated by the Secretary pursuant to section
2132''.
(2) Subsection (e) of section 2103 of title 14, United
States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(e) Secretary To Prescribe Numbers for Certain Officers.--The
Secretary shall prescribe the number of officers authorized to be
serving on active duty in each grade of--
``(1) the permanent commissioned teaching staff of the
Coast Guard Academy;
``(2) the officers designated by the Secretary pursuant to
section 2132; and
``(3) the officers of the Reserve serving in connection
with organizing, administering, recruiting, instructing, or
training the reserve components.''.
(3) Section 2126 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended, in the second sentence, by inserting ``and as to
officers designated by the Secretary pursuant to section 2132''
after ``reserve components''.
(4) Section 3736(a) of title 14, United States Code, is
amended--
(A) in the first sentence by striking ``promotion
list and the'' and inserting ``promotion list, officers
designated by the Secretary pursuant to section 2132,
and the officers on the''; and
(B) in the second sentence by striking ``promotion
list or the'' and inserting ``promotion list, officers
designated by the Secretary pursuant to section 2132,
or the officers on the''.
SEC. 507. DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY FOR CERTAIN PERSONNEL OF COAST GUARD.
(a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 25 of title 14, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 2517. Direct hire authority for certain personnel of Coast Guard
``(a) In General.--The Commandant may appoint, without regard to
the provisions of subchapter I of chapter 33 of title 5 (other than
section 3303 and 3328 of such chapter), qualified candidates to any
non-clinical specialist intended to engage in the integrated primary
prevention of harmful behaviors, including suicide, sexual assault,
harassment, domestic abuse, and child abuse and qualified candidates to
any criminal investigative law enforcement position of the Coast Guard
Criminal Investigative Service intended to engage in the primary
response to such harmful behaviors.
``(b) Sunset.--Effective on September 30, 2034, the authority
provided under subsection (a) shall cease.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item related to
section 2516 the following:
``2517. Direct hire authority for certain personnel of United States
Coast Guard.''.
SEC. 508. SAFE-TO-REPORT POLICY FOR COAST GUARD.
(a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 19 of title 14, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 1907. Safe-to-report policy for Coast Guard
``(a) In General.--The Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating shall, in consultation with the Secretaries of
the military departments, issue such regulations as are necessary to
establish the safe-to-report policy described in subsection (b) that
applies with respect to all members of the Coast Guard (including
members of the reserve and auxiliary components of the Coast Guard) and
cadets at the Coast Guard Academy.
``(b) Safe-to-Report Policy.--The safe-to-report policy described
in this subsection is a policy that prescribes the handling of minor
collateral misconduct involving a member of the Coast Guard who is the
alleged victim or reporting witness of a sexual assault.
``(c) Mitigating and Aggravating Circumstances.--In issuing
regulations under subsection (a), the Secretary shall specify
mitigating circumstances that decrease the gravity of minor collateral
misconduct or the impact of such misconduct on good order and
discipline and aggravating circumstances that increase the gravity of
minor collateral misconduct or the impact of such misconduct on good
order and discipline for purposes of the safe-to-report policy.
``(d) Tracking of Collateral Misconduct Incidents.--In conjunction
with the issuance of regulations under subsection (a), Secretary shall
develop and implement a process to anonymously track incidents of minor
collateral misconduct that are subject to the safe-to-report policy
established under such regulations.
``(e) Minor Collateral Misconduct Defined.--In this section, the
term `minor collateral misconduct' means any minor misconduct that is
punishable under chapter 47 of title 10 that--
``(1) is committed close in time to or during a sexual
assault and directly related to the incident that formed the
basis of the sexual assault allegation;
``(2) is discovered as a direct result of the report of
sexual assault or the ensuing investigation into such sexual
assault; and
``(3) does not involve aggravating circumstances (as
specified in the regulations issued under subsection (a)) that
increase the gravity of the minor misconduct or the impact of
such misconduct on good order and discipline.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 19 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 1906 the following:
``1907. Safe-to-report policy for Coast Guard.''.
SEC. 509. MODIFICATION OF DELIVERY DATE OF COAST GUARD SEXUAL ASSAULT
REPORT.
Section 5112(a) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by
striking ``January 15'' and inserting ``March 1''.
SEC. 510. HIGHER-LEVEL REVIEW OF BOARD OF DETERMINATION DECISIONS.
(a) In General.--Section 2158 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in the first sentence by striking ``The Secretary'' and
inserting the following:
``(a) In General.--The Secretary''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(b) Higher-Level Review of Sexual Assault Cases.--
``(1) In general.--If a board convened under this section
determines that the officer should be retained when the
officer's record indicates that the officer has committed a
sexual assault offense, the board shall forward the record of
the proceedings and recommendation of the board for higher-
level review, in accordance with regulations prescribed by the
Secretary.
``(2) Authority.--The official exercising higher-level
review shall have authority to forward the case for
consideration by a Board of Inquiry in accordance with section
2159.
``(c) Sexual Assault Offense Defined.--In this section, the term
`sexual assault offense' means a violation of section 920 or 920b of
title 10, United States Code (article 120 or 120b of the Uniform Code
of Military Justice) or attempt to commit an offense specified under
section 920 or 920b as punishable under section 880 of such title
(article 80 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice).''.
SEC. 511. REVIEW OF DISCHARGE OR DISMISSAL.
(a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 25 of title 14, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 2517. Review of discharge or dismissal
``(a) Downgrade.--
``(1) In general.--In addition to the requirements of
section 1553 of title 10, a board of review for a former member
of the Coast Guard established pursuant to such section may,
upon a motion of the board and subject to review by the
Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is
operating, downgrade an honorable discharge or dismissal to a
general (under honorable conditions) discharge or dismissal
upon a finding that a former member of the Coast Guard, while
serving on active duty as a member of the armed forces,
committed sexual assault or sexual harassment in violation of
section 920, 920b, or 934 of this title (article 120, 120b, or
134 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice).
``(2) Evidence.--Any downgrade under paragraph (1) shall be
supported by clear and convincing evidence.
``(3) Limitation.--The review board under paragraph (1) may
not downgrade a discharge or dismissal of a former member of
the Coast Guard if the same action described in paragraph (1)
was considered prior to separation from active duty by an
administrative board in determining the characterization of
discharge as otherwise provided by law and in accordance with
regulations prescribed by the Secretary of the Department in
which the Coast Guard is operating.
``(b) Procedural Rights.--
``(1) In general.--A review by a board established under
section 1553 of title 10 shall be based on the records of the
armed forces concerned and such other evidence as may be
presented to the board.
``(2) Evidence by witness.--A witness may present evidence
to the board in person or by affidavit.
``(3) Appearance before board.--A person who requests a
review under this section may appear before the board in person
or by counsel or an accredited representative of an
organization recognized by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs
under chapter 59 of title 38.
``(4) Notification.--A former member of the Coast Guard who
is subject to a downgrade in discharge characterization review
under subsection (b)(3) shall be notified in writing of such
proceedings, afforded the right to obtain copies of records and
documents relevant to the proceedings, and the right to appear
before the board in person or by counsel or an accredited
representative of an organization recognized by the Secretary
of Veterans Affairs under chapter 59 of title 38.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 2516 the following:
``2517. Review of discharge or dismissal.''.
TITLE VI--AMENDMENTS
SEC. 601. AMENDMENTS.
(a) Prohibition on Entry and Operation.--Section 70022(b)(1) of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``Federal
Register'' and inserting ``the Federal Register''.
(b) Port, Harbor, and Coastal Facility Security.--Section 70116(b)
of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``terrorism cyber'' and
inserting ``terrorism, cyber''; and
(2) in paragraph (2) by inserting a comma after ``acts of
terrorism''.
(c) Enforcement by State and Local Officers.--Section 70118(a) of
title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``section 1 of title II of the Act of June
15, 1917 (chapter 30; 50 U.S.C. 191)'' and inserting ``section
70051''; and
(2) by striking ``section 7(b) of the Ports and Waterways
Safety Act (33 U.S.C. 1226(b))'' and inserting ``section
70116(b)''.
(d) Chapter 701 Definitions.--Section 70131(2) of title 46, United
States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking ``section 1 of title II of the Act of June
15, 1917 (50 U.S.C. 191)'' and inserting ``section 70051''; and
(2) by striking ``section 7(b) of the Ports and Waterways
Safety Act (33 U.S.C. 1226(b))'' and inserting ``section
70116(b)''.
(e) Notice of Arrival Requirements for Vessels on the Outer
Continental Shelf.--
(1) Preparatory conforming amendment.--Section 70001 of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by redesignating
subsections (l) and (m) as subsections (m) and (n),
respectively.
(2) Transfer of provision.--Section 704 of the Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation Act 2012 (Public Law 112-213; 46
U.S.C. 70001 note) is--
(A) amended by striking ``of title 46, United
States Code,'';
(B) transferred to appear after 70001(k) of title
46, United States Code; and
(C) redesignated as subsection (l).
(f) Title 46.--Title 46, United States Code, is amended as follows:
(1) Section 2101(2) is amended by striking ``section 1''
and inserting ``section 101''.
(2) Section 2116(b)(1)(D) is amended by striking ``section
93(c)'' and inserting ``section 504(c)''.
(3) In the analysis for subtitle VII by striking the period
after ``70001'' in the item relating to chapter 700.
(4) In the analysis for chapter 700 by striking the item
relating to section 70006 and inserting the following:
``70006. Establishment by Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating of anchorage
grounds and regulations generally.''.
(5) In the heading for subchapter IV in the analysis for
chapter 700 by inserting a comma after ``DEFINITIONS''.
(6) In the heading for subchapter VI in the analysis for
chapter 700 by striking ``OF THE UNITED''and inserting ``OF
UNITED''.
(7) Section 70052(e)(1) is amended by striking ``section
4197 of the Revised Statutes of the United States (46 U.S.C.
App. 91)'' and inserting ``section 60105''.
(g) Oil Pollution Act of 1990.--The Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (33
U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) is amended as follows:
(1) Section 1001(32)(G) (33 U.S.C. 2701(32)(G)) is amended
by striking ``pipeline'' and all that follows through
``offshore facility'' and inserting ``pipeline, offshore
facility''.
(2) Section 1016 (33 U.S.C. 2716) is amended--
(A) by redesignating subsections (e) through (i) as
subsections (d) through (h), respectively; and
(B) in subsection (e)(1)(B), as redesignated by
subparagraph (A), by striking ``subsection (e)'' and
inserting ``subsection (d)''.
(3) Section 1012(b)(2) (33 U.S.C. 2712(b)(2)) is amended by
striking ``section 1016(f)(1)'' and inserting ``section
1016(e)(1)''.
(4) Section 1005(b)(5)(B) (33 U.S.C. 2705(b)(5)(B)) is
amended by striking ``section 1016(g)'' and inserting ``section
1016(f)''.
(5) Section 1018(c) (33 U.S.C. 2718(c)) is amended by
striking ``the Act of March 3, 1851 (46 U.S.C. 183 et seq.)''
and inserting ``chapter 305 of title 46, United States Code''.
(6) Section 7001(h)(1) (33 U.S.C. 2761(h)(1)) is amended by
striking ``subsection (c)(4)'' and inserting ``subsection
(e)(4)''.
<all>
Introduced in House
Introduced in House
Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.
Committee Consideration and Mark-up Session Held
Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Discharged
Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 53 - 3.
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. H. Rept. 118-495.
Reported (Amended) by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. H. Rept. 118-495.
Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 411.
Mr. Graves (MO) moved to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
Considered under suspension of the rules. (consideration: CR H3170-3187)
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DEBATE - The House proceeded with forty minutes of debate on H.R. 7659.
At the conclusion of debate, the Yeas and Nays were demanded and ordered. Pursuant to the provisions of clause 8, rule XX, the Chair announced that further proceedings on the motion would be postponed.
Considered as unfinished business. (consideration: CR H3188-3189)
Passed/agreed to in House: On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 376 - 16 (Roll no. 197). (text: CR H3170-3184)
Roll Call #197 (House)On motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended Agreed to by the Yeas and Nays: (2/3 required): 376 - 16 (Roll no. 197). (text: CR H3170-3184)
Roll Call #197 (House)Motion to reconsider laid on the table Agreed to without objection.
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.