House passes bipartisan Coast Guard Authorization Act

MAY 19, 2015 – The House of Representatives yesterday unanimously approved the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2015 (H.R. 1987). It authorizes Coast Guard and Federal Maritime Commission funding levels for two years, and includes provisions to improve Coast Guard mission effectiveness, help modernize the Service’s aging vessels and other assets, and reform U.S. maritime transportation laws.  

The bill was introduced by Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Duncan Hunter (R-CA), Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Ranking Member John Garamendi (D-CA), Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster (R-PA), and Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Ranking Member Peter DeFazio (D-OR).

“Tonight’s House passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2015 is an important step in ensuring the men and women of the Coast Guard have the necessary resources needed to carry out their vital role in supporting maritime safety and security,” said Chairman Hunter.  “As the process moves forward, I look forward to working with the Senate to ensure a strong final product.”

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