September 25, 2008

Democratic economic stimulus package would fund new icebreaker

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Robert C. Byrd (D-W.Va.) today announced a $56.2 billion stimulus package.

Washington watchers don't think the bill will get anywhere, but buried away among a bunch of things that purport to promote energy independence and a clean environment is $925 million for a much needed new Coast Guard icebreaker

The rationale is that constructing a new Coast Guard icebreaker will ensure that the United States has the ability to respond to the growing risks presented by increased activity in the Arctic and protects U.S. environmental, economic, homeland security and national security interests in both Polar Regions.

The good news here is that at least some people inside the Beltway have woken up to the fact that the icebreaker is needed. Whether this will be the bill that provides it is another matter.Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and Senate Appropriations Committee Chairman Robert C. Byrd (D-W.Va.) today announced a $56.2 billion stimulus package.

Washington watchers don't think the bill will get anywhere, but buried away among a bunch of things that purport to promote energy independence and a clean environment is $925 million for a much needed new Coast Guard icebreaker

The rationale is that constructing a new Coast Guard icebreaker will ensure that the United States has the ability to respond to the growing risks presented by increased activity in the Arctic and protects U.S. environmental, economic, homeland security and national security interests in both Polar Regions.

The good news here is that at least some people inside the Beltway have woken up to the fact that the icebreaker is needed. Whether this will be the bill that provides it is another matter.