[Pages S1521-S1568]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2025

  Mr. CRUZ. Mr. President, the U.S. Coast Guard is essential to 
protecting our Nation's maritime borders from threats like illegal 
drugs, illegal immigration, and transnational crime. The Coast Guard 
saves American lives and ensures that commerce flows smoothly at our 
ports.
  The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 is bipartisan legislation 
that Senator Cantwell and I negotiated and agreed to with House 
Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Sam Graves and Ranking 
Member Rick Larsen.
  It authorizes funding to bolster the Coast Guard's critical missions 
for border security, facilitating maritime commerce, and enforcing the 
rule of law in domestic and international waters.
  I want to draw attention to several key provisions in this bill. Last 
year, the Coast Guard seized over 106 metric tons of cocaine. 
Unfortunately, cartels are now using technology like miniature remote 
control drone ships to

[[Page S1522]]

smuggle drugs across our maritime border.
  Without this legislation, the Coast Guard would remain unable to 
prosecute criminals who are using these remote control autonomous 
vessels.
  The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 also expands the Coast 
Guard's and Customs and Border Protection's use of cutting-edge tools, 
like tactical maritime surveillance systems, which are blimp-based 
radar systems to find and interdict drug runners, poachers, and human 
traffickers at the Texas-Mexico border in the Gulf of America, in San 
Diego, in Key West, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
  I ask my colleagues to stand with me and support President Trump's 
vision of protecting our borders from drugs and illegal immigrants and 
of building ships to revitalize the Coast Guard's fleet. And I urge my 
colleagues to support the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025.
  With that, I yield to my colleague Senator Cantwell.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Washington.
  Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I rise to support Senator Cruz in our 
efforts here to pass the Coast Guard bill. Chairman Cruz and I worked 
diligently on this bill in the last Congress with many of our 
colleagues.
  Unfortunately, the clock ran out, and we are here today to pass this 
important legislation. We hope our House colleagues will just take this 
up and pass it as well. The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 
provides the tools that our Coast Guard needs now to protect our 
shores, keep our maritime moving, and the Coast Guard and its 
responsibilities need the support of this legislation.
  All in, the Coast Guard is responsible for facilitating over $5 
trillion of maritime commerce in our waterways. The Coast Guard is also 
the sole operator of icebreakers in our polar regions, and they are our 
primary force charged with the stopping of pirate fishing from China, 
Russia, and other dark fishing fleets that are stealing American 
fishing jobs. The issues in the Arctic are real, and we have 
highlighted them many times, and this bill will help address that.
  Passage of this measure now will enable us to further provide the 
Coast Guard additional assets like icebreakers, hopefully in the 
upcoming reconciliation bill, and the Coast Guard also helps stops the 
flow of illegal drugs in the maritime environment. This legislation 
also strengthens each of the Coast Guard's missions and authorizes a 
30-percent budget increase to support that workforce.
  I noted the President last night talked about shipbuilding in 
general. We are enthusiastic about that mission. I know that in budget 
reconciliation, people are already, the chairman of the committee, 
talking about the Coast Guard and $20 billion to help us recapitalize 
our Coast Guard fleet. Replacing the aging and inadequate equipment, 
from icebreakers to offshore patrol cutters to heavy weather boats to 
MH-60 helicopters and C-130 aircrafts are all important.
  But beyond the modernization, there are other things. It includes in 
Base Seattle, the homeport to our Nation's current icebreakers, the 
future heavy icebreaker fleet, and the needs for the Arctic Nation that 
we are, now defending against Chinese and Russian aggression. The bill 
also reauthorizes the Puget Sound Whale Desk for another 2 years, which 
helps ships steer clear of our cherished orca and whale populations. It 
also increases collaboration between Washington Tribes and the Coast 
Guard. And the bill invests in critical safety programs. We are very 
proud of all of that.
  But one of the most important things in the bill is, obviously, 
dealing with the workforce--making sure that we have access to medical 
care, housing, and behavioral health and to deal with what we know in 
2023 was a decades long, uncovered, sexual assault and sexual violence 
coverup in the Coast Guard.
  Operation Fouled Anchor identified 62 substantiated incidents of 
rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment perpetrated by at least 42 
individuals. The Coast Guard took action on only two of those subjects.
  Due to the lack of oversight and the Coast Guard's mishandling of 
this, these individuals were allowed to retire, some at the grade of 
commander, with full benefits, and they received no punishment. That is 
unacceptable.
  In 2023 December, former Commandant Schultz admitted to withholding 
information from Congress and stating that, ``He made this decision, 
and he stands by it.'' That is why, as chairman and working then with 
Senator Cruz and their oversight efforts, we did everything we could to 
make sure that this story came out and that we address it in this 
legislation.
  This issue of failure to do this is--this is why we need 
transparency, this is why we need to make sure that we continue to 
address our workforce issues in the Federal Government.
  The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 would strengthen 
authorities and programs to hold perpetrators accountable, enhance 
investigative and legal processes, improve victim recovery services and 
access to care, as well as boosting training.
  These reforms would extend the Coast Guard protections available to 
members of the Armed Forces in general, in the whole Department of 
Defense, and it establishes a comprehensive prevention training and 
reporting requirement to address the issues identified in our 
investigation.
  Moving forward, we have more to do to support the Coast Guard. They 
needed our help with their assets, and they need access to shipyards. 
This morning, during the Commerce Committee, I said I would work with 
my colleagues on all the shipbuilding efforts to help us meet our key 
global shipping competitiveness issues, to ensure that American farmers 
and manufacturers have access to global markets, and to make sure that 
we continue to invest in the best people for the Coast Guard.
  To do that, we have to pass this legislation and get it on to the 
President's desk.
  So I thank my staff Nikky Teutschel, Melissa Porter, Lila Helms, and 
all of the committee staff that worked on this bill. And again, thank 
the chairman, Chairman Cruz, for bringing this bipartisan measure to 
the floor today.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Texas.
  Mr. CRUZ. Mr. President, I thank Senator Cantwell and her staff for 
their hard work on this bill. I also want to thank my staff on the 
committee as well who have put in many hours. This bill is important to 
the men and women of the Coast Guard and is important to our national 
security.
  Therefore, I ask unanimous consent that the Committee on Commerce, 
Science, and Transportation be discharged from further consideration of 
S. 524 and the Senate proceed to its immediate consideration.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clerk will report the bill by title.
  The legislative clerk read as follows:

       A bill (S. 524) to authorize appropriations for the Coast 
     Guard, and for other purposes.

  There being no objection, the committee was discharged and the Senate 
proceeded to consider the bill.
  Mr. CRUZ. I ask unanimous consent that the bill be considered read a 
third time and passed and the motion to reconsider be considered made 
and laid upon the table.
  The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered.
  The bill was ordered to be engrossed for a third reading, was read 
the third time, and passed as follows:

                                 S. 524

       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 2025''.
       (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--COAST GUARD

              Subtitle A--Authorization of Appropriations

Sec. 101. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 102. Authorized levels of military strength and training.

                        Subtitle B--Acquisition

Sec. 111. Modification of prohibition on use of lead systems 
              integrators.
Sec. 112. Service life extension programs.
Sec. 113. Consideration of life-cycle cost estimates for acquisition 
              and procurement.
Sec. 114. Great Lakes icebreaking.
Sec. 115. Regular Polar Security Cutter updates.
Sec. 116. Floating drydock for United States Coast Guard Yard.

                Subtitle C--Organization and Authorities

Sec. 131. Modification of treatment of minor construction and 
              improvement project management.

[[Page S1523]]

Sec. 132. Preparedness plans for Coast Guard properties located in 
              tsunami inundation zones.
Sec. 133. Public availability of information.
Sec. 134. Delegation of ports and waterways safety authorities in Saint 
              Lawrence Seaway.
Sec. 135. Additional Pribilof Island transition completion actions.
Sec. 136. Policy and briefing on availability of naloxone to treat 
              opioid, including fentanyl, overdoses.
Sec. 137. Great Lakes and Saint Lawrence River cooperative vessel 
              traffic service.
Sec. 138. Policy on methods to reduce incentives for illicit maritime 
              drug trafficking.
Sec. 139. Procurement of tactical maritime surveillance systems.
Sec. 140. Plan for joint and integrated maritime operational and 
              leadership training for United States Coast Guard and 
              Taiwan Coast Guard Administration.
Sec. 141. Modification of authority for special purpose facilities.
Sec. 142. Timely reimbursement of damage claims for Coast Guard 
              property.
Sec. 143. Enhanced use property pilot program.
Sec. 144. Coast Guard property provision.

                         Subtitle D--Personnel

Sec. 151. Direct hire authority for certain personnel.
Sec. 152. Temporary exemption from authorized end strength for enlisted 
              members on active duty in Coast Guard in pay grades E-8 
              and E-9.
Sec. 153. Additional available guidance and considerations for reserve 
              selection boards.
Sec. 154. Family leave policies for the Coast Guard.
Sec. 155. Authorization for maternity uniform allowance for officers.
Sec. 156. Housing.
Sec. 157. Uniform funding and management system for morale, well-being, 
              and recreation programs and Coast Guard Exchange.
Sec. 158. Coast Guard embedded behavioral health technician program.
Sec. 159. Expansion of access to counseling.
Sec. 160. Command sponsorship for dependents of members of Coast Guard 
              assigned to Unalaska, Alaska.
Sec. 161. Travel allowance for members of Coast Guard assigned to 
              Alaska.
Sec. 162. Consolidation of authorities for college student 
              precommissioning initiative.
Sec. 163. Tuition Assistance and Advanced Education Assistance Pilot 
              Program.
Sec. 164. Modifications to career flexibility program.
Sec. 165. Recruitment, relocation, and retention incentive program for 
              civilian firefighters employed by Coast Guard in remote 
              locations.
Sec. 166. Reinstatement of training course on workings of Congress; 
              Coast Guard Museum.
Sec. 167. Modification of designation of Vice Admirals.
Sec. 168. Commandant Advisory Judge Advocate.
Sec. 169. Special Advisor to Commandant for Tribal and Native Hawaiian 
              affairs.
Sec. 170. Notification.

                    Subtitle E--Coast Guard Academy

Sec. 171. Modification of Board of Visitors.
Sec. 172. Study on Coast Guard Academy oversight.
Sec. 173. Electronic locking mechanisms to ensure Coast Guard Academy 
              cadet room security.
Sec. 174. Coast Guard Academy student advisory board and access to 
              timely and independent wellness support services for 
              cadets and candidates.
Sec. 175. Report on existing behavioral health and wellness support 
              services facilities at Coast Guard Academy.
Sec. 176. Required posting of information.
Sec. 177. Installation of behavioral health and wellness rooms.
Sec. 178. Coast Guard Academy room reassignment.
Sec. 179. Authorization for use of Coast Guard Academy facilities and 
              equipment by covered foundations.
Sec. 180. Concurrent jurisdiction at Coast Guard Academy.

                          Subtitle F--Reports

Sec. 181. Maritime domain awareness in Coast Guard sector for Puerto 
              Rico and Virgin Islands.
Sec. 182. Report on condition of Missouri River dayboards.
Sec. 183. Study on Coast Guard missions.
Sec. 184. Annual report on progress of certain homeporting projects.
Sec. 185. Report on Bay class icebreaking tug fleet replacement.
Sec. 186. Feasibility study on supporting additional port visits and 
              deployments in support of Operation Blue Pacific.
Sec. 187. Study and gap analysis with respect to Coast Guard Air 
              Station Corpus Christi aviation hangar.
Sec. 188. Report on impacts of joint travel regulations on members of 
              Coast Guard who rely on ferry systems.
Sec. 189. Report on Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program.
Sec. 190. Report on and expansion of Coast Guard Junior Reserve 
              Officers' Training Corps Program.

                   TITLE II--SHIPPING AND NAVIGATION

                Subtitle A--Merchant Mariner Credentials

Sec. 201. Merchant mariner credentialing.
Sec. 202. Nonoperating individual.
Sec. 203. Merchant mariner licensing and documentation system 
              requirements.

                       Subtitle B--Vessel Safety

Sec. 211. Grossly negligent operations of a vessel.
Sec. 212. Administrative procedure for security risks.
Sec. 213. Study of amphibious vessels.
Sec. 214. Performance driven examination schedule.
Sec. 215. Ports and waterways safety.
Sec. 216. Study on Bering Strait vessel traffic projections and 
              emergency response posture at ports of the United States.
Sec. 217. Underwater inspections brief.
Sec. 218. St. Lucie River railroad bridge.
Sec. 219. Authority to establish safety zones for special activities in 
              exclusive economic zone.
Sec. 220. Improving Vessel Traffic Service monitoring.
Sec. 221. Designating pilotage waters for the Straits of Mackinac.
Sec. 222. Receipts; international agreements for ice patrol services.
Sec. 223. Requirements for certain fishing vessels and fish tender 
              vessels.

             Subtitle C--Matters Involving Uncrewed Systems

Sec. 231. Establishment of National Advisory Committee on Autonomous 
              Maritime Systems.
Sec. 232. Pilot program for governance and oversight of small uncrewed 
              maritime systems.
Sec. 233. Coast Guard training course.
Sec. 234. NOAA membership on Autonomous Vessel Policy Council.
Sec. 235. Technology pilot program.
Sec. 236. Uncrewed systems capabilities report and briefing.
Sec. 237. Definitions.

                       Subtitle D--Other Matters

Sec. 241. Controlled substance onboard vessels.
Sec. 242. Information on type approval certificates.
Sec. 243. Clarification of authorities.
Sec. 244. Anchorages.
Sec. 245. Amendments to passenger vessel security and safety 
              requirements.
Sec. 246. Cyber-incident training.
Sec. 247. Extension of pilot program to establish a cetacean desk for 
              Puget Sound region.
Sec. 248. Suspension of enforcement of use of devices broadcasting on 
              AIS for purposes of marking fishing gear.
Sec. 249. Classification societies.
Sec. 250. Abandoned and derelict vessel removals.

                   TITLE III--OIL POLLUTION RESPONSE

Sec. 301. Salvage and marine firefighting response capability.
Sec. 302. Use of marine casualty investigations.
Sec. 303. Timing of review.
Sec. 304. Online incident reporting system.
Sec. 305. Investment of Exxon Valdez oil spill court recovery in high 
              yield investments and marine research.

        TITLE IV--SEXUAL ASSAULT AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT RESPONSE

Sec. 401. Independent review of Coast Guard reforms.
Sec. 402. Comprehensive policy and procedures on retention and access 
              to evidence and records relating to sexual misconduct and 
              other misconduct.
Sec. 403. Consideration of request for transfer of a cadet at the Coast 
              Guard Academy who is the victim of a sexual assault or 
              related offense.
Sec. 404. Designation of officers with particular expertise in military 
              justice or healthcare.
Sec. 405. Safe-to-Report policy for Coast Guard.
Sec. 406. Modification of reporting requirements on covered misconduct 
              in Coast Guard.
Sec. 407. Modifications to the officer involuntary separation process.
Sec. 408. Review of discharge characterization.
Sec. 409. Convicted sex offender as grounds for denial.
Sec. 410. Definition of covered misconduct.
Sec. 411. Notification of changes to Uniform Code of Military Justice 
              or Manual for Courts Martial relating to covered 
              misconduct.
Sec. 412. Complaints of retaliation by victims of sexual assault or 
              sexual harassment and related persons.
Sec. 413. Development of policies on military protective orders.

[[Page S1524]]

Sec. 414. Coast Guard implementation of independent review commission 
              recommendations on addressing sexual assault and sexual 
              harassment in the military.
Sec. 415. Policy relating to care and support of victims of covered 
              misconduct.
Sec. 416. Establishment of special victim capabilities to respond to 
              allegations of certain special victim offenses.
Sec. 417. Members asserting post-traumatic stress disorder, sexual 
              assault, or traumatic brain injury.
Sec. 418. Participation in CATCH a Serial Offender program.
Sec. 419. Accountability and transparency relating to allegations of 
              misconduct against senior leaders.
Sec. 420. Confidential reporting of sexual harassment.
Sec. 421. Report on policy on whistleblower protections.
Sec. 422. Review and modification of Coast Guard Academy policy on 
              sexual harassment and sexual violence.
Sec. 423. Coast Guard and Coast Guard Academy access to defense sexual 
              assault incident database.
Sec. 424. Director of Coast Guard Investigative Service.
Sec. 425. Modifications and revisions relating to reopening retired 
              grade determinations.
Sec. 426. Inclusion and command review of information on covered 
              misconduct in personnel service records.
Sec. 427. Flag officer review of, and concurrence in, separation of 
              members who have reported sexual misconduct.
Sec. 428. Expedited transfer in cases of sexual misconduct or domestic 
              violence.
Sec. 429. Access to temporary separation program for victims of alleged 
              sex-related offenses.
Sec. 430. Policy and program to expand prevention of sexual misconduct.
Sec. 431. Continuous vetting of security clearances.
Sec. 432. Training and education programs for covered misconduct 
              prevention and response.

                  TITLE V--COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORTS

Sec. 501. Comptroller General report on Coast Guard research, 
              development, and innovation program.
Sec. 502. Comptroller General study on vessel traffic service center 
              employment, compensation, and retention.
Sec. 503. Comptroller General review of quality and availability of 
              Coast Guard behavioral health care and resources for 
              personnel wellness.
Sec. 504. Comptroller General study on Coast Guard efforts to reduce 
              prevalence of missing or incomplete medical records and 
              sharing of medical data with Department of Veterans 
              Affairs and other entities.
Sec. 505. Comptroller General study on Coast Guard training facility 
              infrastructure.
Sec. 506. Comptroller General study on facility and infrastructure 
              needs of Coast Guard stations conducting border security 
              operations.
Sec. 507. Comptroller General study on Coast Guard basic allowance for 
              housing.
Sec. 508. Comptroller General report on safety and security 
              infrastructure at Coast Guard Academy.
Sec. 509. Comptroller General study on athletic coaching at Coast Guard 
              Academy.
Sec. 510. Comptroller General study and report on permanent change of 
              station process.

                          TITLE VI--AMENDMENTS

Sec. 601. Amendments.

       TITLE VII--NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION

      Subtitle A--National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
                       Commissioned Officer Corps

Sec. 701. Title and qualifications of head of National Oceanic and 
              Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps and 
              Office of Marine and Aviation Operations; promotions of 
              flag officers.
Sec. 702. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration vessel fleet.
Sec. 703. Cooperative Aviation Centers.
Sec. 704. Eligibility of former officers to compete for certain 
              positions.
Sec. 705. Alignment of physical disqualification standard for obligated 
              service agreements with standard for veterans' benefits.
Sec. 706. Streamlining separation and retirement process.
Sec. 707. Separation of ensigns found not fully qualified.
Sec. 708. Repeal of limitation on educational assistance.
Sec. 709. Disposal of survey and research vessels and equipment of the 
              National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

             Subtitle B--South Pacific Tuna Treaty Matters

Sec. 721. References to South Pacific Tuna Act of 1988.
Sec. 722. Definitions.
Sec. 723. Prohibited acts.
Sec. 724. Exceptions.
Sec. 725. Criminal offenses.
Sec. 726. Civil penalties.
Sec. 727. Licenses.
Sec. 728. Enforcement.
Sec. 729. Findings by Secretary of Commerce.
Sec. 730. Disclosure of information.
Sec. 731. Closed area stowage requirements.
Sec. 732. Observers.
Sec. 733. Fisheries-related assistance.
Sec. 734. Arbitration.
Sec. 735. Disposition of fees, penalties, forfeitures, and other 
              moneys.
Sec. 736. Additional agreements.

                       Subtitle C--Other Matters

Sec. 741. North Pacific Research Board enhancement.

     SEC. 2. COMMANDANT DEFINED.

       In this Act, the term ``Commandant'' means the Commandant 
     of the Coast Guard.

                          TITLE I--COAST GUARD

              Subtitle A--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) $3,627,600,000 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, $1,210,840,000 for fiscal year 2025.''.

     SEC. 102. 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)--
       (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``2,500'' and inserting 
     ``3,000'';
       (B) in paragraph (2) by striking ``165'' and inserting 
     ``200'';
       (C) in paragraph (3) by striking ``385'' and inserting 
     ``450''; and
       (D) in paragraph (4) by striking ``1,200'' and inserting 
     ``1,300''.

                        Subtitle B--Acquisition

     SEC. 111. MODIFICATION OF 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. 112. 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 
     such title is amended by inserting after the item relating to 
     section 1137 the following:

``1138. Service life extension programs.''.
       (c) Major Acquisitions.--Section 5103 of title 14, United 
     States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a) by striking ``major acquisition 
     programs'' and inserting ``Level 1 Acquisitions or Level 2 
     Acquisitions'';
       (2) in subsection (b) by striking ``major acquisition 
     program'' and inserting ``Level 1 Acquisition or Level 2 
     Acquisition''; and
       (3) by amending subsection (f) to read as follows:

[[Page S1525]]

       ``(f) Definitions.--In this section:
       ``(1) Level 1 acquisition.--The term `Level 1 Acquisition' 
     has the meaning given such term in section 1171.
       ``(2) Level 2 acquisition.--The term `Level 2 Acquisition' 
     has the meaning given such term in section 1171.''.
       (d) Major Acquisition Program Risk Assessment.--Section 
     5107 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``section 5103(f)'' and inserting ``section 1171''.

     SEC. 113. CONSIDERATION OF LIFE-CYCLE COST ESTIMATES FOR 
                   ACQUISITION AND PROCUREMENT.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 11 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

     ``Sec. 1139. 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, 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 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 1138 (as added by this Act) the 
     following:

``1139. Consideration of life-cycle cost estimates for acquisition and 
              procurement.''.

     SEC. 114. GREAT LAKES ICEBREAKING.

       (a) Great Lakes Icebreaker.--
       (1) Strategy.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a strategy detailing how the 
     Coast Guard will complete design and construction of a Great 
     Lakes icebreaker at least as capable as the Coast Guard 
     cutter Mackinaw (WLBB-30) as expeditiously as possible after 
     funding is provided for such icebreaker, including providing 
     a cost estimate and an estimated delivery timeline that would 
     facilitate the expedited delivery detailed in the strategy.
       (2) Great lakes icebreaker pilot program.--
       (A) In general.--During the 5 ice seasons beginning after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall 
     conduct a pilot program to determine the extent to which the 
     Coast Guard Great Lakes icebreaking cutter fleet is capable 
     of maintaining tier one and tier two waterways open 95 
     percent of the time during an ice season.
       (B) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the end of each 
     of the 5 ice seasons beginning after the date of enactment of 
     this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives a report that details--
       (i) the results of the pilot program required under 
     subparagraph (A); and
       (ii) any relevant new performance measures implemented by 
     the Coast Guard, including the measures described in pages 5 
     through 7 of the report of the Coast Guard titled ``Domestic 
     Icebreaking Operations'' and submitted to Congress on July 
     26, 2024, as required by section 11212(a)(3) of the Don Young 
     Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263), 
     and the results of the implementation of such measures.
       (b) Modification to Reporting Requirement Relating to 
     Icebreaking Operations in Great Lakes.--
       (1) In general.--Section 11213(f) of the Don Young Coast 
     Guard Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263) is 
     amended to read as follows:
       ``(f) Public Report.--Not later than July 1 after the first 
     winter in which the Commandant has submitted the report 
     required by paragraph (3) of section 11212(a), the Commandant 
     shall publish on a publicly accessible website of the Coast 
     Guard a report on the cost to the Coast Guard of meeting the 
     proposed standards described in paragraph (2) of such 
     section.''.
       (2) Public report.--Section 11272(c) of the James M. Inhofe 
     National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 is 
     amended by adding at the end the following:
       ``(7) Public report.--
       ``(A) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, the 
     Commandant shall brief the Committee on Transportation and 
     Infrastructure of the House or Representatives and the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate on the cost to the Coast Guard of meeting the 
     requirements of section 564 of title 14, United States Code, 
     in fiscal year 2024.
       ``(B) Secondary briefings.--Not later than November 1, 2025 
     and November, 1, 2026, the Commandant shall brief the 
     committees described in subparagraph (A) on the cost to the 
     Coast Guard of meeting the requirements of section 564 of 
     title 14, United States Code, in fiscal years 2025 and 2026, 
     respectively.''.

     SEC. 115. REGULAR POLAR SECURITY CUTTER UPDATES.

       (a) Report.--
       (1) Report to congress.--Not later than 120 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant and the Chief 
     of Naval Operations shall submit to the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate, and the Committees on Armed 
     Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives a 
     report on the status of acquisition of Polar Security 
     Cutters.
       (2) Elements.--The report under paragraph (1) shall 
     include--
       (A) a detailed timeline for the acquisition process of 
     Polar Security Cutters, including expected milestones and a 
     projected commissioning date for the first 3 Polar Security 
     Cutters;
       (B) an accounting of the previously appropriated funds 
     spent to date on the Polar Security Cutter Program, updated 
     cost projections for Polar Security Cutters, and projections 
     for when additional funds will be required;
       (C) potential factors and risks that could further delay or 
     imperil the completion of Polar Security Cutters; and
       (D) a review of the acquisition of Polar Security Cutters 
     to date, including factors that led to substantial cost 
     overruns and delivery delays.
       (b) Briefings.--
       (1) Provision to congress.--Not later than 90 days after 
     the submission of the report under subsection (a), and not 
     less frequently than every 90 days thereafter, the Commandant 
     and the Chief of Naval Operations shall provide to the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate, and the Committees on Armed 
     Services of the Senate and the House of Representatives 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 90 
     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 and the Chief of Naval 
     Operations shall notify the Committee on Transportation and 
     Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, the Committee 
     on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and 
     the Committees on Armed Services of the Senate and the House 
     of Representatives 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. 116. FLOATING DRYDOCK FOR UNITED STATES COAST GUARD 
                   YARD.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter III of chapter 11 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
     following:

     ``Sec. 1159. Floating drydock for United States Coast Guard 
       Yard

       ``(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), 
     the Commandant may not acquire, procure, or construct a 
     floating dry dock for the Coast Guard Yard.
       ``(b) Permissible Acquisition, Procurement, or Construction 
     Methods.--Notwithstanding subsection (a) of this section and 
     section 1105(a), the Commandant may--
       ``(1) provide for an entity other than the Coast Guard to 
     contract for the acquisition, procurement, or construction of 
     a floating drydock by contract, lease, purchase, or other 
     agreement;
       ``(2) construct a floating drydock at the Coast Guard Yard; 
     or
       ``(3) acquire or procure a commercially available floating 
     drydock.
       ``(c) Exemptions From Requirements.--Sections 1131, 1132, 
     1133, and 1171 shall not apply to an acquisition or 
     procurement under subsection (b).
       ``(d) Design Standards and Construction Practices.--To the 
     extent practicable, a floating drydock acquired, procured, or 
     constructed under this section shall reflect commercial 
     design standards and commercial construction practices that 
     are consistent with the best interests of the Federal 
     Government.
       ``(e) Berthing Requirement.--Any floating drydock acquired, 
     procured, or constructed under subsection (b) shall be 
     berthed at the Coast Guard Yard in Baltimore, Maryland, when 
     lifting or maintaining vessels.
       ``(f) Floating Dry Dock Defined.--In this section, the term 
     `floating dry dock' means equipment that is--
       ``(1) constructed in the United States; and
       ``(2) capable of meeting the lifting and maintenance 
     requirements of a vessel that is at least 418 feet in length 
     with a gross tonnage of 4,500 gross tons.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 1158 the following:

``1159. Floating drydock for United States Coast Guard Yard.''.

                Subtitle C--Organization and Authorities

     SEC. 131. MODIFICATION OF TREATMENT OF MINOR CONSTRUCTION AND 
                   IMPROVEMENT PROJECT MANAGEMENT.

       Section 903(d)(1) of title 14, United States Code, is 
     amended by striking ``$1,500,000'' and inserting 
     ``$2,000,000''.

[[Page S1526]]

  


     SEC. 132. PREPAREDNESS PLANS FOR COAST GUARD PROPERTIES 
                   LOCATED IN TSUNAMI INUNDATION ZONES.

       (a) 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 heads of other appropriate Federal 
     agencies, shall develop a location-specific tsunami 
     preparedness plan for each property concerned.
       (b) Requirements.--In developing each preparedness plan 
     under subsection (a), the Commandant shall ensure that the 
     plan--
       (1) minimizes the loss of human life;
       (2) maximizes the ability of the Coast Guard to meet the 
     mission of the Coast Guard;
       (3) is included in the emergency action plan for each Coast 
     Guard unit or sector located within the applicable tsunami 
     inundation zone;
       (4) designates an evacuation route to an assembly area 
     located outside the tsunami inundation zone;
       (5) takes into consideration near-shore and distant tsunami 
     inundation of the property concerned;
       (6) includes--
       (A) maps of all applicable tsunami inundation zones;
       (B) evacuation routes and instructions for all individuals 
     located on the property concerned;
       (C) procedures to begin evacuations as expeditiously as 
     possible upon detection of a seismic or other tsunamigenic 
     event;
       (D) evacuation plans for Coast Guard aviation and afloat 
     assets; and
       (E)(i) routes for evacuation on foot from any location 
     within the property concerned; or
       (ii) if an on-foot evacuation is not possible, an 
     assessment of whether there is a need for vertical evacuation 
     refuges that would allow evacuation on foot;
       (7) in the case of a property concerned that is at risk for 
     a near-shore tsunami, is able to be completely executed 
     within 15 minutes of detection of a seismic event, or if 
     complete execution is not possible within 15 minutes, within 
     a timeframe the Commandant considers reasonable to minimize 
     the loss of life; and
       (8) not less frequently than annually, is--
       (A) exercised by each Coast Guard unit and sector located 
     in the applicable tsunami inundation zone;
       (B) communicated through an annual in-person training to 
     Coast Guard personnel and dependents located or living on the 
     property concerned; and
       (C) evaluated by the relevant District Commander for each 
     Coast Guard unit and sector located within the applicable 
     tsunami inundation zone.
       (c) Consultation.--In developing each preparedness plan 
     under subsection (a), the Commandant shall consult relevant 
     State, Tribal, and local government entities, including 
     emergency management officials.
       (d) Briefing.--Not later than 14 months after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives on each plan developed under subsection (a), 
     including the status of implementation and feasibility of 
     each such plan.
       (e) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Property concerned.--The term ``property concerned'' 
     means any real property owned, operated, or leased by the 
     Coast Guard within a tsunami inundation zone.
       (2) Tsunamigenic event.--The term ``tsunamigenic event'' 
     means any event, such as an earthquake, volcanic eruption, 
     submarine landslide, coastal rockfall, or other event, with 
     the magnitude to cause a tsunami.
       (3) Vertical evacuation refuge.--The term ``vertical 
     evacuation refuge'' means a structure or earthen mound 
     designated as a place of refuge in the event of a tsunami, 
     with sufficient height to elevate evacuees above the tsunami 
     inundation depth, designed and constructed to resist tsunami 
     load effects.

     SEC. 133. PUBLIC AVAILABILITY OF INFORMATION.

       (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'';

       (B) by striking ``Not later than'' and inserting the 
     following:
       ``(a) In General.--Not later than'';
       (C) by striking ``the number of migrant'' and inserting 
     ``the number of drug and person''; 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 persons were 
     interdicted, the number of persons interdicted, the number of 
     those persons who were unaccompanied minors, and the Coast 
     Guard sectors and geographic areas of responsibility in which 
     such incidents occurred.
       ``(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this provision 
     shall be construed to require the Coast Guard to collect the 
     information described in subsection (b), and nothing in this 
     provision shall be construed to require the Commandant to 
     publicly release confidential, classified, law enforcement 
     sensitive, or otherwise protected information.''.
       (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. 134. DELEGATION OF PORTS AND WATERWAYS SAFETY 
                   AUTHORITIES IN SAINT LAWRENCE SEAWAY.

       (a) In General.--Section 70032 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended to read as follows:

     ``Sec. 70032. Delegation of ports and waterways authorities 
       in 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 St. 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 St. 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 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)(3); and
       ``(3) take actions for port, harbor, and coastal facility 
     security in accordance with section 70116.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 700 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking the item 
     relating to section 70032 and inserting the following:

``70032. Delegation of ports and waterways authorities in Saint 
              Lawrence Seaway.''.

     SEC. 135. ADDITIONAL PRIBILOF ISLAND TRANSITION COMPLETION 
                   ACTIONS.

       Section 11221 of the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization 
     Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263) is amended by adding at the 
     end the following:
       ``(e) Additional Reports on Status of Use of Facilities and 
     Helicopter Basing.--Beginning with the first quarterly report 
     required under subsection (a) submitted after the date of 
     enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, the 
     Secretary shall include in each such report--
       ``(1) the status of the use of recently renovated Coast 
     Guard housing facilities, food preparation facilities, and 
     maintenance and repair facilities on St. Paul Island, Alaska, 
     including a projected date for full use and occupancy of such 
     facilities in support of Coast Guard missions in the Bering 
     Sea; and
       ``(2) a detailed plan for the acquisition and construction 
     of a hangar in close proximity to existing St. Paul airport 
     facilities for the prosecution of Coast Guard operational 
     missions, including plans for the use of land needed for such 
     hangar.''.

     SEC. 136. POLICY AND BRIEFING ON AVAILABILITY OF NALOXONE TO 
                   TREAT OPIOID, INCLUDING FENTANYL, OVERDOSES.

       (a) Policy.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall update the policy 
     of the Coast Guard regarding the use, at Coast Guard 
     facilities, onboard Coast Guard assets, and during Coast 
     Guard operations, of medication to treat drug overdoses, 
     including the use of naloxone or other similar medication to 
     treat opioid, including fentanyl, overdoses.
       (b) Availability.--The updated policy required under 
     subsection (a) shall require naloxone or other similar 
     medication be available--
       (1) at each Coast Guard clinic;
       (2) at each independently located Coast Guard unit;
       (3) onboard each Coast Guard cutter; and
       (4) for response to opioid, including fentanyl, overdoses 
     at other appropriate Coast Guard installations and facilities 
     and onboard other Coast Guard assets.
       (c) Participation in Tracking System.--Not later than 1 
     year after the earlier of the date of enactment of this Act 
     or the date on which the tracking system established under

[[Page S1527]]

     section 706 of the National Defense Authorization Act for 
     Fiscal Year 2024 (10 U.S.C. 1090 note) is established, the 
     Commandant shall ensure the participation of the Coast Guard 
     in the such tracking system.
       (d) Memorandum of Understanding.--Not later than 1 year 
     after the earlier of the date of enactment of this Act or the 
     date on which the tracking system established under section 
     706 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
     2024 (10 U.S.C. 1090 note) is established, the Secretary of 
     the department in which the Coast Guard is operating when not 
     operating as a service in the Navy and the Secretary of 
     Defense shall finalize a memorandum of understanding to 
     facilitate Coast Guard access such tracking system.
       (e) Briefing.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall provide the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a briefing on the use, by 
     members and personnel of the Coast Guard at Coast Guard 
     facilities, onboard Coast Guard assets, and during Coast 
     Guard operations, of--
       (A) naloxone or other similar medication to treat opioid, 
     including fentanyl, overdoses; and
       (B) opioids, including fentanyl.
       (2) Elements.--The briefing required under paragraph (1) 
     shall include the following:
       (A) A description of--
       (i) the progress made in the implementation of the updated 
     policy required under subsection (a);
       (ii) the prevalence and incidence of the illegal use of 
     fentanyl and other controlled substances in the Coast Guard 
     during the 5-year period preceding the briefing;
       (iii) processes of the Coast Guard to mitigate substance 
     abuse in the Coast Guard, particularly with respect to 
     fentanyl; and
       (iv) the status of the memorandum of understanding required 
     under subsection (d).
       (B) For the 5-year period preceding the briefing, a review 
     of instances in which naloxone or other similar medication 
     was used to treat opioid, including fentanyl, overdoses at a 
     Coast Guard facility, onboard a Coast Guard asset, or during 
     a Coast Guard operation.
       (f) Privacy.--In carrying out the requirements of this 
     section, the Commandant shall ensure compliance with all 
     applicable privacy law, including section 552a of title 5, 
     United States Code (commonly referred to as the ``Privacy 
     Act''), and the privacy regulations promulgated under section 
     264(c) of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability 
     Act (42 U.S.C. 1320d-2 note).
       (g) Rule of Construction.--For purposes of the availability 
     requirement under subsection (b), with respect to a Coast 
     Guard installation comprised of multiple Coast Guard 
     facilities or units, naloxone or other similar medication 
     available at a single Coast Guard facility within the 
     installation shall be considered to be available to all Coast 
     Guard facilities or units on the installation if appropriate 
     arrangements are in place to ensure access, at all times 
     during operations, to the naloxone or other similar 
     medication contained within such single Coast Guard facility.

     SEC. 137. GREAT LAKES AND SAINT LAWRENCE RIVER COOPERATIVE 
                   VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICE.

       Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard 
     is operating shall issue or amend regulations to address any 
     applicable arrangements with the Canadian Coast Guard 
     regarding vessel traffic services cooperation and vessel 
     traffic management data exchanges within the Saint Lawrence 
     Seaway and the Great Lakes.

     SEC. 138. POLICY ON METHODS TO REDUCE INCENTIVES FOR ILLICIT 
                   MARITIME DRUG TRAFFICKING.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     the enactment of this Act, the Commandant, in consultation 
     with the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement 
     Administration, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of 
     Defense, shall develop a policy, consistent with the 
     Constitution of the United States, as well as domestic and 
     international law, to address, disincentivize, and interdict 
     illicit trafficking by sea of controlled substances (and 
     precursors of controlled substances) being transported to 
     produce illicit synthetic drugs.
       (b) Elements.--The policy required under subsection (a) 
     shall--
       (1) include a requirement that, to the maximum extent 
     practicable, a vessel unlawfully transporting a controlled 
     substance or precursors of a controlled substance being 
     transported to produce illicit synthetic drugs, be seized or 
     appropriately disposed of consistent with domestic and 
     international law, as well as any international agreements to 
     which the United States is a party; and
       (2) aim to reduce incentives for illicit maritime drug 
     trafficking on a global scale, including in the Eastern 
     Pacific Ocean, the Indo-Pacific region, the Caribbean, and 
     the Middle East.
       (c) Briefing.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall brief the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the 
     Committee on Foreign Relations, and the Committee on Homeland 
     Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, the Committee 
     on Foreign Affairs, and the Committee on Homeland Security of 
     the House of Representatives on--
       (1) the policy developed pursuant to subsection (a); and
       (2) recommendations with respect to--
       (A) additional methods for reducing illicit drug 
     trafficking; and
       (B) additional resources necessary to implement the policy 
     required under subsection (a) and methods recommended under 
     subparagraph (A).

     SEC. 139. PROCUREMENT OF TACTICAL MARITIME SURVEILLANCE 
                   SYSTEMS.

       (a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b)(2), 
     subject to the availability of appropriations and if the 
     Secretary of Homeland Security determines that there is a 
     need, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall--
       (1) procure a tactical maritime surveillance system, or 
     similar technology, for use by the Coast Guard and U.S. 
     Customs and Border Protection in the areas of operation of--
       (A) Coast Guard Sector San Diego in California;
       (B) Coast Guard Sector San Juan in Puerto Rico; and
       (C) Coast Guard Sector Key West in Florida; and
       (2) for purposes of data integration and land-based data 
     access, procure for each area of operation described in 
     paragraph (1) and for Coast Guard Station South Padre Island 
     a land-based maritime domain awareness system capable of 
     sharing data with the Coast Guard and U.S. Customs and Border 
     Protection--
       (A) to operate in conjunction with--
       (i) the system procured under section 11266 of the James M. 
     Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
     2023 (Public Law 117-263; 136 Stat. 4063) for Coast Guard 
     Station South Padre Island; and
       (ii) the tactical maritime surveillance system procured for 
     each area of operation under paragraph (1); and
       (B) to be installed in the order in which the systems 
     described in subparagraph (A) are installed.
       (b) Study; Limitation.--
       (1) Study required.--Prior to the procurement or operation 
     of a tactical maritime surveillance system, or similar 
     technology, that is deployed from a property owned by the 
     Department of Defense, the Secretary of Homeland Security 
     shall complete a study, in coordination with Secretary of 
     Defense, analyzing the potential impacts to the national 
     security of the United States of such operation.
       (2) Limitation.--If it is determined by the Secretary of 
     Homeland Security and the Secretary of Defense through the 
     study required under paragraph (1) that the placement or 
     installation of a system described in subsection (a) 
     negatively impacts the national security of the United 
     States, such system shall not be procured or installed.

     SEC. 140. PLAN FOR JOINT AND INTEGRATED MARITIME OPERATIONAL 
                   AND LEADERSHIP TRAINING FOR UNITED STATES COAST 
                   GUARD AND TAIWAN COAST GUARD ADMINISTRATION.

       (a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to require a 
     plan to increase joint and integrated training opportunities 
     for the United States Coast Guard and the Taiwan Coast Guard 
     Administration.
       (b) Plan.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant, in consultation with 
     the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense, shall 
     complete a plan to expand opportunities for additional joint 
     and integrated training activities for the United States 
     Coast Guard and the Taiwan Coast Guard Administration.
       (2) Elements.--The plan required by paragraph (1) shall 
     include the following:
       (A) The estimated costs for fiscal years 2024 through 
     2029--
       (i) to deploy United States Coast Guard mobile training 
     teams to Taiwan to meaningfully enhance the maritime 
     security, law enforcement, and deterrence capabilities of 
     Taiwan; and
       (ii) to accommodate the participation of an increased 
     number of members of the Taiwan Coast Guard Administration in 
     United States Coast Guard-led maritime training courses, 
     including associated training costs for such members, such as 
     costs for lodging, meals and incidental expenses, travel, 
     training of personnel, and instructional materials.
       (B) A strategy for increasing the number of seats, as 
     practicable, for members of the Taiwan Coast Guard 
     Administration at each of the following United States Coast 
     Guard training courses:
       (i) The International Maritime Officers Course.
       (ii) The International Leadership and Management Seminar.
       (iii) The International Crisis Command and Control Course.
       (iv) The International Maritime Domain Awareness School.
       (v) The International Maritime Search and Rescue Planning 
     School.
       (vi) The International Command Center School.
       (C) An assessment of--
       (i) the degree to which integrated and joint United States 
     Coast Guard and Taiwan Coast Guard Administration maritime 
     training would assist in--

       (I) preventing, detecting, and suppressing illegal, 
     unreported, and unregulated fishing operations in the South 
     China Sea and surrounding waters; and

[[Page S1528]]

       (II) supporting counter-illicit drug trafficking operations 
     in the South China Sea and surrounding waters; and

       (ii) whether the frequency of United States Coast Guard 
     training team visits to Taiwan should be increased to enhance 
     the maritime security, law enforcement, and deterrence 
     capabilities of Taiwan.
       (3) Briefing.--Not later than 60 days after the date on 
     which the plan required under paragraph (1) is completed, the 
     Commandant shall provide to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Foreign 
     Relations of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation 
     and Infrastructure and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of 
     the House of Representatives a briefing on the contents of 
     the plan.

     SEC. 141. MODIFICATION OF AUTHORITY FOR SPECIAL PURPOSE 
                   FACILITIES.

       Section 907 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a), in the first sentence--
       (A) by striking ``20 years'' and inserting ``30 years'';
       (B) by striking ``or National'' and inserting ``National''; 
     and
       (C) by inserting before the period ``, medical facilities, 
     Coast Guard child development centers (as such term is 
     defined in section 2921), and training facilities, including 
     small arms firing ranges''; and
       (2) in subsection (b)--
       (A) by striking the period and inserting a semicolon;
       (B) by striking ``means any facilities'' and inserting 
     ``means--
       ``(1) any facilities''; and
       (C) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(2) medical facilities;
       ``(3) Coast Guard child development centers (as such term 
     is defined in section 2921); and
       ``(4) training facilities, including small arms firing 
     ranges.''.

     SEC. 142. TIMELY REIMBURSEMENT OF DAMAGE CLAIMS FOR COAST 
                   GUARD PROPERTY.

       Section 546 of title 14, United States Code, is amended in 
     the second sentence by inserting ``and the amounts collected 
     shall be available until expended'' after ``special deposit 
     account''.

     SEC. 143. ENHANCED USE PROPERTY PILOT PROGRAM.

       Section 504 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)(13) by striking ``five years'' and 
     inserting ``30 years''; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(g) Additional Provisions.--
       ``(1) In general.--Amounts received under subsection 
     (a)(13) shall be--
       ``(A) in addition to amounts otherwise available for the 
     activities described in subsection (a)(13) for any fiscal 
     year; and
       ``(B) available, without further appropriation, until 
     expended.
       ``(2) Consideration.--
       ``(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), 
     a person or entity entering into a contractual agreement 
     under this section shall provide consideration for the 
     contractual agreement at fair market value, as determined by 
     the Commandant.
       ``(B) Exception.--In the case of a contractual agreement 
     under this section between the Coast Guard and any other 
     Federal department or agency, the Federal department or 
     agency concerned shall provide consideration for the 
     contractual agreement that is equal to the full cost borne by 
     the Coast Guard in connection with completing such 
     contractual agreement.
       ``(C) Forms.--Consideration under this subsection may take 
     any of the following forms:
       ``(i) The payment of cash.
       ``(ii) The maintenance, construction, modification, or 
     improvement of existing or new facilities on real property 
     under the jurisdiction of the Commandant.
       ``(iii) The use by the Coast Guard of facilities on the 
     property concerned.
       ``(iv) The provision of services, including parking, 
     telecommunications, and environmental remediation and 
     restoration of real property under the jurisdiction of the 
     Commandant.
       ``(v) Any other consideration the Commandant considers 
     appropriate.
       ``(vi) A combination of any forms described in this 
     subparagraph.
       ``(3) Sunset.--The authority under paragraph (13) of 
     subsection (a) shall expire on December 31, 2030. The 
     expiration under this paragraph of authority under paragraph 
     (13) of subsection (a) shall not affect the validity or term 
     of contractual agreements under such paragraph or the 
     retention by the Commandant of proceeds from such agreements 
     entered into under such subsection before the expiration of 
     the authority.''.

     SEC. 144. COAST GUARD PROPERTY PROVISION.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 7 of title 14, United States Code, 
     is amended by adding at the end the following:

     ``Sec. 722. Cooperation with eligible entities

       ``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
       ``(1) Coast guard installation.--The term `Coast Guard 
     installation' means a base, unit, station, yard, other 
     property under the jurisdiction of the Commandant or, in the 
     case of property in a foreign country, under the operational 
     control of the Coast Guard, without regard to the duration of 
     operational control.
       ``(2) Cultural resource.--The term `cultural resource' 
     means any of the following:
       ``(A) A building, structure, site, district, or object 
     eligible for or included in the National Register of Historic 
     Places maintained under section 302101 of title 54.
       ``(B) Cultural items, as that term is defined in section 
     2(3) of the Native American Graves Protection and 
     Repatriation Act (25 U.S.C. 3001(3)).
       ``(C) An archaeological resource, as that term is defined 
     in section 3(1) of the Archaeological Resources Protection 
     Act of 1979 (16 U.S.C. 470bb(1))).
       ``(D) An archaeological artifact collection and associated 
     records covered by part 79 of title 36, Code of Federal 
     Regulations.
       ``(E) A sacred site, as that term is defined in section 
     1(b) of Executive Order No. 13007 (42 U.S.C. 1996 note; 
     relating to Indian sacred sites).
       ``(F) Treaty or trust resources of an Indian Tribe, 
     including the habitat associated with such resources.
       ``(G) Subsistence resources of an Indian Tribe or a Native 
     Hawaiian organization including the habitat associated with 
     such resources.
       ``(3) Eligible entity.--The term `eligible entity' means 
     any the following:
       ``(A) A State, or a political subdivision of a State.
       ``(B) A local government.
       ``(C) An Indian Tribe.
       ``(D) A Native Hawaiian organization.
       ``(E) A Tribal organization.
       ``(F) A Federal department or agency.
       ``(4) Indian tribe.--The term `Indian Tribe' has the 
     meaning given that term in section 4 of the Indian Self-
     Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304).
       ``(5) Native hawaiian organization.--The term `Native 
     Hawaiian organization' has the meaning given such term in 
     section 6207 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 
     1965 (20 U.S.C. 7517) except the term includes the Department 
     of Hawaiian Home Lands and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
       ``(6) Natural resource.--The term `natural resource' means 
     land, fish, wildlife, biota, air, water, ground water, 
     drinking water supplies, and other such resources belonging 
     to, managed by, held in trust by, appertaining to, or 
     otherwise controlled by the United States (including the 
     resources of the waters of the United States), any State or 
     local government, any Indian Tribe, any Native Hawaiian 
     organization, or any member of an Indian Tribe, if such 
     resources are subject to a trust restriction on alienation 
     and have been categorized into one of the following groups:
       ``(A) Surface water resources.
       ``(B) Ground water resources.
       ``(C) Air resources.
       ``(D) Geologic resources.
       ``(E) Biological resources.
       ``(7) State.--The term `State' includes each of the several 
     States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto 
     Rico, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and 
     the territories and possessions of the United States.
       ``(8) Tribal organization.--The term `Tribal organization' 
     has the meaning given the term in section 4 of the Indian 
     Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 
     5304).
       ``(b) Cooperative Agreements for Management of Cultural 
     Resources.--
       ``(1) Authority.--The Commandant may enter into a 
     cooperative agreement with an eligible entity (or in the case 
     that the eligible entity is a Federal department or agency, 
     an interagency agreement)--
       ``(A) to provide for the preservation, management, 
     maintenance, and improvement of natural resources and 
     cultural resources located on a site described under 
     paragraph (2); and
       ``(B) for the purpose of conducting research regarding the 
     natural resources and cultural resources.
       ``(2) Authorized natural and cultural resources sites.--To 
     be covered by a cooperative agreement under paragraph (1), 
     the relevant natural resources or cultural resources shall be 
     located--
       ``(A) on a Coast Guard installation; or
       ``(B) on a site outside of a Coast Guard installation, but 
     only if the cooperative agreement will directly relieve or 
     eliminate current or anticipated restrictions that would or 
     might restrict, impede, or otherwise interfere, either 
     directly or indirectly, with current or anticipated Coast 
     Guard training, testing, maintenance, or operations on a 
     Coast Guard installation.
       ``(3) Application of other laws.--Section 1535 and chapter 
     63 of title 31 shall not apply to an agreement entered into 
     under paragraph (1).
       ``(c) Agreements and Considerations.--
       ``(1) Agreements authorized.--The Commandant may enter into 
     an agreement with an eligible entity, and may enter into an 
     interagency agreement with the head of another Federal 
     department or agency, to address the use or development of 
     property in the vicinity of, or ecologically related to, a 
     Coast Guard installation for purposes of--
       ``(A) limiting any development or use of such property that 
     would be incompatible with the mission of the Coast Guard 
     installation;
       ``(B) preserving habitat on such property in a manner 
     that--
       ``(i) is compatible with environmental requirements; and
       ``(ii) may eliminate or relieve current or anticipated 
     environmental restrictions that would or might otherwise 
     restrict, impede, or interfere, either directly or 
     indirectly, with current or anticipated Coast Guard training 
     or operations on the Coast Guard installation;
       ``(C) maintaining or improving Coast Guard installation 
     resilience;

[[Page S1529]]

       ``(D) maintaining and improving natural resources, or 
     benefitting natural and historic research, on the Coast Guard 
     installation;
       ``(E) maintaining access to cultural resources and natural 
     resources, including--
       ``(i) Tribal treaty fisheries and shellfish harvest, and 
     usual and accustomed fishing areas; and
       ``(ii) subsistence fisheries, or any other fishery or 
     shellfish harvest, of an Indian Tribe;
       ``(F) providing a means to replace or repair property or 
     cultural resources of an Indian Tribe or a Native Hawaiian 
     organization if such property is damaged by Coast Guard 
     personnel or operations, in consultation with the affected 
     Indian Tribe or Native Hawaiian organization; or
       ``(G) maintaining and improving natural resources located 
     outside a Coast Guard installation, including property of an 
     eligible entity, if the purpose of the agreement is to 
     relieve or eliminate current or anticipated challenges that 
     could restrict, impede, or otherwise interfere with, either 
     directly or indirectly, current or anticipated Coast Guard 
     activities.
       ``(2) Inapplicability of certain contract requirements.--
     Notwithstanding chapter 63 of title 31, an agreement under 
     subsection (b)(1) that is a cooperative agreement and 
     concerns a cultural resource or a natural resource may be 
     used to acquire property or services for the direct benefit 
     or use of the Federal Government.
       ``(d)(1) An agreement under subparagraph (b)(1) shall 
     provide for--
       ``(A) the acquisition by an eligible entity or entities of 
     all right, title, and interest in and to any real property, 
     or any lesser interest in the property, as may be appropriate 
     for purposes of this subsection; and
       ``(B) the sharing by the United States and an eligible 
     entity or entities of the acquisition costs in accordance 
     with paragraph (3).
       ``(2) Property or interests may not be acquired pursuant to 
     an agreement under subsection (b)(1) unless the owner of the 
     property or interests consents to the acquisition.
       ``(3)(A) An agreement with an eligible entity under 
     subsection (b)(1) may provide for--
       ``(i) the management of natural resources on, and the 
     monitoring and enforcement of any right, title, or interest 
     in real property in which the Commandant acquires any right, 
     title, or interest in accordance with this subsection; and
       ``(ii) for the payment by the United States of all or a 
     portion of the costs of such management, monitoring, or 
     enforcement if the Commandant determines that there is a 
     demonstrated need to preserve or restore habitat for the 
     purposes of subsection (b) or (c).
       ``(B) Any payment provided for under subparagraph (A) may--
       ``(i) be paid in a lump sum;
       ``(ii) include an amount intended to cover the future costs 
     of natural resource management and monitoring and 
     enforcement; and
       ``(iii) be placed by the eligible entity in an interest-
     bearing account, so long as any interest is to be applied for 
     the same purposes as the principal.
       ``(C) Any payments made under this paragraph shall be 
     subject to periodic auditing by the Inspector General of the 
     department in which the Coast Guard is operating.
       ``(4)(A) In entering into an agreement under subsection 
     (b)(1), the Commandant shall determine the appropriate 
     portion of the acquisition costs to be borne by the United 
     States in the sharing of acquisition costs of real property, 
     or an interest in real property, as required under paragraph 
     (1)(B).
       ``(B) In lieu of, or in addition to, making a monetary 
     contribution toward the cost of acquiring a parcel of real 
     property, or an interest therein, pursuant to an agreement 
     under subsection (b)(1), the Commandant may convey real 
     property in accordance with applicable law.
       ``(C) The portion of acquisition costs borne by the United 
     States pursuant to subparagraph (A), either through the 
     contribution of funds, excess real property, or both, may not 
     exceed an amount equal to--
       ``(i) the fair market value of any property, or interest in 
     property, to be transferred to the United States upon the 
     request of the Commandant under paragraph (5); or
       ``(ii) the cumulative fair market value of all properties, 
     or all interests in properties, to be transferred to the 
     United States under paragraph (5) pursuant to an agreement 
     under subsection (b)(1).
       ``(D) The contribution of an eligible entity to the 
     acquisition costs of real property, or an interest in real 
     property, under paragraph (1)(B) may include, with the 
     approval of the Commandant, the following:
       ``(i) The provision of funds, including funds received by 
     the eligible entity from--
       ``(I) a Federal agency outside the department in which the 
     Coast Guard is operating; or
       ``(II) a State or local government in connection with a 
     Federal, State, or local program.
       ``(ii) The provision of in-kind services, including 
     services related to the acquisition or maintenance of such 
     real property or interest in real property.
       ``(iii) The exchange or donation of real property or any 
     interest in real property.
       ``(iv) Any combination of clauses (i) through (iii).
       ``(5)(A) In entering into an agreement under subsection 
     (b)(1), each eligible entity that is a party to the agreement 
     shall agree, as a term of the agreement, to transfer to the 
     United States, upon request of the Commandant, all or a 
     portion of the property or interest acquired under the 
     agreement or a lesser interest therein, except no such 
     requirement need be included in the agreement if--
       ``(i) the property or interest is being transferred to a 
     State or another Federal agency, or the agreement requires 
     the property or interest to be subsequently transferred to a 
     State or another Federal agency; and
       ``(ii) the Commandant determines that the laws and 
     regulations applicable to the future use of such property or 
     interest provide adequate assurance that the property 
     concerned will be developed and used in a manner appropriate 
     for purposes of this subsection.
       ``(B) The Commandant shall limit a transfer request 
     pursuant to subparagraph (A) to the minimum property or 
     interests necessary to ensure that the property or interest 
     concerned is developed and used in a manner appropriate for 
     purposes of this subsection.
       ``(C)(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (A), If all or a portion 
     of a property or interest acquired under an agreement under 
     subsection (b)(1) is initially or subsequently transferred to 
     a State or another Federal agency, before that State or other 
     Federal agency may declare the property or interest in excess 
     to its needs or propose to exchange the property or interest, 
     the State or other Federal agency shall give the Commandant 
     reasonable advance notice of its intent to so declare.
       ``(ii) Upon receiving such reasonable advance notice under 
     clause (i), the Commandant may request, within a reasonable 
     time period, that administrative jurisdiction over the 
     property or interest be transferred to the Commandant, if the 
     Commandant determines such transfer necessary for the 
     preservation of the purposes of this subsection.
       ``(iii) Upon a request from the Commandant under clause 
     (ii), the administrative jurisdiction over the property or 
     interest be transferred to the Commandant at no cost.
       ``(iv) If the Commandant does not make a request under 
     clause (ii) within a reasonable time period, all such rights 
     of the Commandant to request transfer of administrative 
     jurisdiction over the property or interest shall remain 
     available to the Commandant with respect to future transfers 
     or exchanges of the property or interest and shall bind all 
     subsequent transferees.
       ``(D) The Commandant may accept, on behalf of the United 
     States, any property or interest to be transferred to the 
     United States under an agreement under subsection (b)(1).
       ``(E) For purposes of the acceptance of property or 
     interests under an agreement under subsection (b)(1), the 
     Commandant may accept an appraisal or title documents 
     prepared or adopted by a non-Federal entity as satisfying the 
     applicable requirements of section 301 of the Uniform 
     Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies 
     Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4651) or section 3111 of title 40 if 
     the Commandant finds that the appraisal or title documents 
     substantially comply with the requirements of such sections 
     and is reasonably accurate.
       ``(e) Minimal Criteria for Approval of Agreements.--The 
     Commandant may approve a cooperative agreement under 
     subsection (b)(1) if the Commandant determines that--
       ``(1) the eligible entity has authority to carry out the 
     project;
       ``(2) the project would be completed without unreasonable 
     delay as determined by the Commandant; and
       ``(3) the project cannot be effectively completed without 
     the cooperative agreement authority under subsection (b)(1).
       ``(f) Additional Terms and Conditions.--The Commandant may 
     require such additional terms and conditions in an agreement 
     under subsection (b)(1) as the Commandant considers 
     appropriate to protect the interests of the United States, in 
     accordance with applicable Federal law.
       ``(g) Notification; Availability of Agreements to 
     Congress.--
       ``(1) Notification.--The Commandant shall notify the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation or the 
     Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of 
     the Senate and the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate 
     when the eligible entity is a Tribe, Tribal Organization or 
     Native Hawaiian organization, and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives in writing not later than the date that is 3 
     full business days prior to any day on which the Commandant 
     intends to enter into an agreement under subsection (b)(1), 
     and include in such notification the anticipated costs of 
     carrying out the agreement, to the extent practicable.
       ``(2) Availability of agreements.--A copy of an agreement 
     entered into under subsection (b)(1) shall be provided to any 
     member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation or the Committee on Homeland Security and 
     Governmental Affairs of the Senate or the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives not later than 5 full business days after the 
     date on which such request is submitted to the Commandant.
       ``(h) Consultation.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
     of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, 
     the Commandant shall consult with Indian Tribes to improve 
     opportunities for Indian Tribe participation in the 
     development and execution

[[Page S1530]]

     of Coast Guard oil spill response and prevention activities.
       ``(i) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
     construed to undermine the rights of any Indian Tribe to seek 
     full and meaningful government-to-government consultation 
     under this section or under any other law.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 7 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 721 the following:

``722. Cooperation with eligible entities.''.

                         Subtitle D--Personnel

     SEC. 151. DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY FOR CERTAIN PERSONNEL.

       (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

       ``(a) In General.--The Commandant may appoint, without 
     regard to the provisions of subchapter I of chapter 33 (other 
     than sections 3303 and 3328 of such chapter) of title 5, 
     qualified candidates to any of the following positions in the 
     competitive service (as defined in section 2102 of title 5) 
     in the Coast Guard:
       ``(1) Any category of medical or health professional 
     positions within the Coast Guard.
       ``(2) Any childcare services position.
       ``(3) Any position in the Coast Guard housing office of a 
     Coast Guard installation, the primary function of which is 
     supervision of Coast Guard housing covered by subchapter III 
     of chapter 29 of this title.
       ``(4) Any nonclinical specialist position the purpose of 
     which is the integrated primary prevention of harmful 
     behavior, including suicide, sexual assault, harassment, 
     domestic abuse, and child abuse.
       ``(5) Any special agent position of the Coast Guard 
     Investigative Service.
       ``(6) The following positions at the Coast Guard Academy:
       ``(A) Any civilian faculty member appointed under section 
     1941.
       ``(B) A position involving the improvement of cadet health 
     or well-being.
       ``(b) Limitation.--The Commandant shall only appoint 
     qualified candidates under the authority provided by 
     subsection (a) if the Commandant determines that there is a 
     shortage of qualified candidates for the positions described 
     in such subsection or a critical hiring need for such 
     positions.
       ``(c) Briefing Requirement.--Not later than 1 year after 
     the date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025, and annually thereafter for the following 5 years, the 
     Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Homeland 
     Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives a written briefing which describes the use 
     of the authority provided under this section on an annual 
     basis, including the following:
       ``(1) The number of employees hired under the authority 
     provided under this section within the year for which the 
     briefing is provided.
       ``(2) The positions and grades for which employees were 
     hired.
       ``(3) A justification for the Commandant's determination 
     that such positions involved a shortage of qualified 
     candidates or a critical hiring need.
       ``(4) The number of employees who were hired under the 
     authority provided under this section who have separated from 
     the Coast Guard.
       ``(5) Steps the Coast Guard has taken to engage with the 
     Office of Personnel Management under subpart B of part 337 of 
     title 5, Code of Federal Regulations, for positions for which 
     the Commandant determines a direct hire authority remains 
     necessary.
       ``(d) Sunset.--The authority provided under subsection (a) 
     shall expire on September 30, 2030.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to 2516 the following:

``2517. Direct hire authority for certain personnel.''.

     SEC. 152. TEMPORARY EXEMPTION FROM AUTHORIZED END STRENGTH 
                   FOR ENLISTED MEMBERS ON ACTIVE DUTY IN COAST 
                   GUARD IN PAY GRADES E-8 AND E-9.

       Section 517(a) of title 10, United States Code, shall not 
     apply with respect to the Coast Guard until October 1, 2027.

     SEC. 153. 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. 154. FAMILY LEAVE POLICIES FOR THE COAST GUARD.

       (a) In General.--Section 2512 of title 14, United States 
     Code, is amended--
       (1) in the section heading by striking ``Leave'' and 
     inserting ``Family leave'';
       (2) in subsection (a)--
       (A) by striking ``, United States Code,'' and inserting 
     ``or, with respect to the reserve component of the Coast 
     Guard, the Secretary of Defense promulgates a new regulation 
     for members of the reserve component of the Coast Guard 
     pursuant to section 711 of title 10,'';
       (B) by striking ``or adoption of a child'' and inserting 
     ``or placement of a minor child with the member for adoption 
     or long term foster care'';
       (C) by striking ``and enlisted members'' and inserting ``, 
     enlisted members, and members of the reserve component''; and
       (D) by inserting ``or, with respect to members of the 
     reserve component of the Coast Guard, the Secretary of 
     Defense'' after ``provided by the Secretary of the Navy'';
       (3) in subsection (b)--
       (A) in the subsection heading by striking ``Adoption of 
     Child'' and inserting ``Placement of Minor Child With Member 
     for Adoption or Long Term Foster Care'';
       (B) by striking ``and 704'' and inserting ``, 704, and 
     711'';
       (C) by striking ``and enlisted members'' and inserting ``, 
     enlisted members, and members of the reserve component'';
       (D) by striking ``or adoption'' inserting ``, adoption, or 
     long term foster care'';
       (E) by striking ``immediately'';
       (F) by striking ``or adoption'' and inserting ``, placement 
     of a minor child with the member for long-term foster care or 
     adoption,''; and
       (G) by striking ``enlisted member'' and inserting ``, 
     enlisted member, or member of the reserve component'';
       (4) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(c) Period of Leave.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Secretary of the department in which 
     the Coast Guard is operating, may authorize leave described 
     under subparagraph (b) to be taken after the one-year period 
     described in subparagraph (b) in the case of a member 
     described in subsection (b) who, except for this 
     subparagraph, would lose unused family leave at the end of 
     the one-year period described in subparagraph (A) as a result 
     of--
       ``(A) operational requirements;
       ``(B) professional military education obligations; or
       ``(C) other circumstances that the Secretary determines 
     reasonable and appropriate.
       ``(2) Extended deadline.--The regulation, rule, policy, or 
     memorandum prescribed under paragraph (a) shall require that 
     any leave authorized to be taken after the one-year period 
     described in subparagraph (c)(1)(A) shall be taken within a 
     reasonable period of time, as determined by the Secretary of 
     the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, after 
     cessation of the circumstances warranting the extended 
     deadline.
       ``(d) Member of the Reserve Component of the Coast Guard 
     Defined.--In this section, the term `member of the reserve 
     component of the Coast Guard' means 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.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking the item 
     relating to section 2512 and inserting the following:

``2512. Family leave policies for the Coast Guard.''.
       (c) Compensation.--Section 206(a)(4) of title 37, United 
     States Code, is amended by inserting before the period at the 
     end ``or family leave under section 2512 of title 14''.

     SEC. 155. 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 shall determine by policy, 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 by the Coast Guard.''.

     SEC. 156. HOUSING.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter III of chapter 29 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
     following:

     ``Sec. 2948. Authorization for acquisition of existing family 
       housing in lieu of construction

       ``(a) In General.--In lieu of constructing any family 
     housing units authorized by law to be constructed, the 
     Commandant may acquire sole interest in existing family 
     housing units that are privately owned or that are held by 
     the Department of Housing and Urban Development, except that 
     in foreign countries the Commandant may acquire less than 
     sole interest in existing family housing units.
       ``(b) Acquisition of Interests in Land.--When authority 
     provided by law to construct Coast Guard family housing units 
     is used to acquire existing family housing units under 
     subsection (a), the authority includes authority to acquire 
     interests in land.
       ``(c) Limitation on Net Floor Area.--The net floor area of 
     a family housing unit acquired under the authority of this 
     section may not exceed the applicable limitation specified in 
     section 2826 of title 10. The Commandant may waive the 
     limitation set forth in the preceding sentence for family 
     housing units acquired under this section during the five-
     year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this 
     section.

     ``Sec. 2949. Acceptance of funds to cover administrative 
       expenses relating to certain real property transactions

       ``(a) Authority to Accept.--In connection with a real 
     property transaction referred to

[[Page S1531]]

     in subsection (b) with a non-Federal person or entity, the 
     Commandant may accept amounts provided by the person or 
     entity to cover administrative expenses incurred by the 
     Commandant in entering into the transaction.
       ``(b) Covered Transactions.--Subsection (a) applies to the 
     following transactions involving real property under the 
     control of the Commandant:
       ``(1) The exchange of real property.
       ``(2) The grant of an easement over, in, or upon real 
     property of the United States.
       ``(3) The lease or license of real property of the United 
     States.
       ``(4) The disposal of real property of the United States 
     for which the Commandant will be the disposal agent.
       ``(5) The conveyance of real property under section 
     2945.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 29 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

``2948. Authorization for acquisition of existing family housing in 
              lieu of construction.
``2949. Acceptance of funds to cover administrative expenses relating 
              to certain real property transactions.''.
       (c) 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).

     SEC. 157. UNIFORM FUNDING AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR MORALE, 
                   WELL-BEING, AND RECREATION PROGRAMS AND COAST 
                   GUARD EXCHANGE.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter IV of chapter 5 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
     following:

     ``Sec. 565. Uniform funding and management of morale, well-
       being, and recreation programs and Coast Guard Exchange

       ``(a) Authority for Uniform Funding and Management.--Under 
     policies issued by the Commandant, funds appropriated to the 
     Coast Guard and available for morale, well-being, and 
     recreation programs and the Coast Guard Exchange may be 
     treated as nonappropriated funds and expended in accordance 
     with laws applicable to the expenditure of nonappropriated 
     funds. When made available for morale, well-being, and 
     recreation programs and the Coast Guard Exchange under such 
     policies, appropriated funds shall be considered to be 
     nonappropriated funds for all purposes and shall remain 
     available until expended.
       ``(b) Conditions on Availability.--Funds appropriated to 
     the Coast Guard and subject to a policy described in 
     subsection (a) shall only be available in amounts that are 
     determined by the Commandant to be consistent with--
       ``(1) Coast Guard policy; and
       ``(2) Coast Guard readiness and resources.
       ``(c) Updated Policy.--Not later than 90 days after the 
     date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025, the Commandant shall update the policies described in 
     subsection (a) consistent with this section.
       ``(d) Briefing.--Not later than 30 days after the date on 
     which the Commandant issues the updated policies required 
     under subsection (c), the Commandant shall provide to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a briefing on such 
     policies.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 5 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 564 the following:

``565. Uniform funding and management of morale, well-being, and 
              recreation programs and Coast Guard Exchange.''.

     SEC. 158. COAST GUARD EMBEDDED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN 
                   PROGRAM.

       (a) Establishment.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant, in coordination with 
     the Assistant Commandant for Health, Safety, and Work Life, 
     shall establish and conduct a pilot program, to be known as 
     the ``Coast Guard Embedded Behavioral Health Technician 
     Program'' (referred to in this section as the ``Pilot 
     Program''), to integrate behavioral health technicians 
     serving at Coast Guard units for the purposes of--
       (A) facilitating, at the clinic level, the provision of 
     integrated behavioral health care for members of the Coast 
     Guard;
       (B) providing, as a force extender under the supervision of 
     a licensed behavioral health care provider, at the clinic 
     level--
       (i) psychological assessment and diagnostic services, as 
     appropriate;
       (ii) behavioral health services, as appropriate;
       (iii) education and training related to promoting positive 
     behavioral health and well-being; and
       (iv) information and resources, including expedited 
     referrals, to assist members of the Coast Guard in dealing 
     with behavioral health concerns;
       (C) improving resilience and mental health care among 
     members of the Coast Guard who respond to extraordinary calls 
     of duty, with the ultimate goals of preventing crises and 
     addressing mental health concerns before such concerns evolve 
     into more complex issues that require care at a military 
     treatment facility;
       (D) increasing--
       (i) the number of such members served by behavioral health 
     technicians; and
       (ii) the proportion of such members returning to duty after 
     seeking behavioral health care; and
       (E) positively impacting the Coast Guard in a cost-
     effective manner by extending behavioral health services to 
     the workforce and improving access to care.
       (2) Briefing.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall provide the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives with a briefing regarding a 
     plan to establish and conduct the Pilot Program.
       (b) Selection of Coast Guard Clinics.--The Commandant shall 
     select, for participation in the Pilot Program, 3 or more 
     Coast Guard clinics that support units that have 
     significantly high operational tempos or other force 
     resiliency risks, as determined by the Commandant.
       (c) Placement of Staff at Coast Guard Clinics.--
       (1) In general.--Under the Pilot Program, a Coast Guard 
     health services technician with a grade of E-5 or higher, or 
     an assigned civilian behavioral health specialist, shall be--
       (A) assigned to each selected Coast Guard clinic; and
       (B) located at a unit with high operational tempo.
       (2) Training.--
       (A) Health services technicians.--Before commencing an 
     assignment at a Coast Guard clinic under paragraph (1), a 
     Coast Guard health services technician shall complete 
     behavioral health technician training and independent duty 
     health services training.
       (B) Civilian behavioral health specialists.--To qualify for 
     an assignment at a Coast Guard clinic under paragraph (1), a 
     civilian behavioral health specialist shall have at least the 
     equivalent behavioral health training as the training 
     required for a Coast Guard behavioral health technician under 
     subparagraph (A).
       (d) Administration.--The Commandant, in coordination with 
     the Assistant Commandant for Health, Safety, and Work Life, 
     shall administer the Pilot Program through the Health, 
     Safety, and Work-Life Service Center.
       (e) Data Collection.--
       (1) In general.--The Commandant shall collect and analyze 
     data concerning the Pilot Program for purposes of--
       (A) developing and sharing best practices for improving 
     access to behavioral health care; and
       (B) providing information to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives regarding the implementation of the Pilot 
     Program and related policy issues.
       (2) Plan.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a plan for carrying out 
     paragraph (1).
       (f) Annual Report.--Not later than September 1 of each year 
     until the date on which the Pilot Program terminates under 
     subsection (g), the Commandant shall submit to the Committee 
     on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and 
     the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
     House of Representatives a report on the Pilot Program that 
     includes the following:
       (1) An overview of the implementation of the Pilot Program 
     at each applicable Coast Guard clinic, including--
       (A) the number of members of the Coast Guard who received 
     services on site by a behavioral health technician assigned 
     to such clinic;
       (B) feedback from all members of the Coast Guard empaneled 
     for their medical care under the Pilot Program;
       (C) an assessment of the deployability and overall 
     readiness of members of the applicable operational unit; and
       (D) an estimate of potential costs and impacts on other 
     Coast Guard health care services of supporting the Pilot 
     Program at such units and clinics.
       (2) The data and analysis required under subsection (e)(1).
       (3) A list and detailed description of lessons learned from 
     the Pilot Program as of the date of on which the report is 
     submitted.
       (4) The feasibility, estimated cost, and impacts on other 
     Coast Guard health care services of expanding the Pilot 
     Program to all Coast Guard clinics, and a description of the 
     personnel, fiscal, and administrative resources that would be 
     needed for such an expansion.
       (g) Termination.--The Pilot Program shall terminate on 
     September 30, 2028.

[[Page S1532]]

  


     SEC. 159. EXPANSION OF ACCESS TO COUNSELING.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall hire, train, and 
     deploy not fewer than 5 additional behavioral health 
     specialists, in addition to the personnel required under 
     section 11412(a) of the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization 
     Act of 2022 (14 U.S.C. 504 note).
       (b) Requirement.--The Commandant shall ensure that not 
     fewer than 35 percent of behavioral health specialists 
     required to be deployed under subsection (a) have experience 
     in--
       (1) behavioral health care related to military sexual 
     trauma; and
       (2) behavioral health care for the purpose of supporting 
     members of the Coast Guard with needs for mental health care 
     and counseling services for post-traumatic stress disorder 
     and co-occurring disorders related to military sexual trauma.
       (c) Accessibility.--The support provided by the behavioral 
     health specialists hired pursuant to subsection (a)--
       (1) may include care delivered via telemedicine; and
       (2) shall be made widely available to members of the Coast 
     Guard.
       (d) Notification.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall notify the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives if the Coast Guard has not 
     completed hiring, training, and deploying--
       (A) the personnel referred to in subsections (a) and (b); 
     and
       (B) the personnel required under section 11412(a) of the 
     Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022 (14 U.S.C. 
     504 note).
       (2) Contents.--The notification required under paragraph 
     (1) shall include--
       (A) the date of publication of the hiring opportunity for 
     all such personnel;
       (B) the General Schedule grade level advertised in the 
     publication of the hiring opportunity for all such personnel;
       (C) the number of personnel to whom the Coast Guard 
     extended an offer of employment in accordance with the 
     requirements of this section and section 11412(a) of the Don 
     Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022 (14 U.S.C. 504 
     note), and the number of such personnel who accepted or 
     declined such offer of employment;
       (D) a summary of the efforts by the Coast Guard to 
     publicize, advertise, or otherwise recruit qualified 
     candidates in accordance with the requirements of this 
     section and section 11412(a) of such Act; and
       (E) any recommendations and a detailed plan to ensure full 
     compliance with the requirements of this section and section 
     11412(a) of such Act, which may include special payments 
     discussed in the report of the Government Accountability 
     Office titled ``Federal Pay: Opportunities Exist to Enhance 
     Strategic Use of Special Payments'', published on December 7, 
     2017 (GAO-18-91), which may be made available to help ensure 
     full compliance with all such requirements in a timely 
     manner.

     SEC. 160. COMMAND SPONSORSHIP FOR DEPENDENTS OF MEMBERS OF 
                   COAST GUARD ASSIGNED TO UNALASKA, ALASKA.

       On request by a member of the Coast Guard assigned to 
     Unalaska, Alaska, the Commandant shall grant command 
     sponsorship to the dependents of such member.

     SEC. 161. TRAVEL ALLOWANCE FOR MEMBERS OF COAST GUARD 
                   ASSIGNED TO ALASKA.

       (a) Establishment.--The Commandant shall implement a policy 
     that provides for reimbursement to eligible members of the 
     Coast Guard for the cost of airfare for such members to 
     travel to the homes of record of such member during the 
     period specified in subsection (e).
       (b) Eligible Members.--A member of the Coast Guard is 
     eligible for a reimbursement under subsection (a) if--
       (1) the member is assigned to a duty location in Alaska; 
     and
       (2) an officer in a grade above O-5 in the chain of command 
     of the member authorizes the travel of the member.
       (c) Treatment of Time as Leave.--The time during which an 
     eligible member is absent from duty for travel reimbursable 
     under subsection (a) shall be treated as leave for purposes 
     of section 704 of title 10, United States Code.
       (d) Briefing Required.--Not later than February 1, 2027, 
     the Commandant shall provide to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a briefing on--
       (1) the use and effectiveness of reimbursements under 
     subsection (a);
       (2) the calculation and use of the cost of living allowance 
     for a member assigned to a duty location in Alaska; and
       (3) the use of special pays and other allowances as 
     incentives for cold weather proficiency or duty locations.
       (e) Period Specified.--The period specified in this 
     subsection is the period--
       (1) beginning on the date of enactment of this Act; and
       (2) ending on the later of--
       (A) December 31, 2026; or
       (B) the date on which the authority under section 352 of 
     title 37, United States Code, to grant assignment or special 
     duty pay to members of the uniform services terminates under 
     subsection (g) of such section.

     SEC. 162. CONSOLIDATION OF AUTHORITIES FOR COLLEGE STUDENT 
                   PRECOMMISSIONING INITIATIVE.

       (a) In General.--Section 3710 of title 14, United States 
     Code, is amended to read as follows:

     ``Sec. 3710. College student precommissioning initiative

       ``(a) In General.--There is authorized within the Coast 
     Guard a college student precommissioning initiative program 
     (in this section referred to as the `Program') for eligible 
     undergraduate students to enlist in the Coast Guard Reserve 
     and receive a commission as a Reserve officer.
       ``(b) Criteria for Selection.--To be eligible for the 
     Program an applicant shall meet the following requirements 
     upon submitting an application:
       ``(1) Age.--The applicant shall be not less than 19 years 
     old and not more than 31 years old as of September 30 of the 
     fiscal year in which the Program selection panel selecting 
     such applicant convenes, or an age otherwise determined by 
     the Commandant.
       ``(2) Character.--
       ``(A) In general.--The applicant shall be of outstanding 
     moral character and meet any other character requirement set 
     forth by the Commandant.
       ``(B) Coast guard applicants.--Any applicant serving in the 
     Coast Guard may not be commissioned if in the 36 months prior 
     to the first Officer Candidate School class convening date in 
     the selection cycle, such applicant was convicted by a court-
     martial or assigned nonjudicial punishment, or did not meet 
     performance or character requirements set forth by the 
     Commandant.
       ``(3) Citizenship.--The applicant shall be a United States 
     citizen.
       ``(4) Clearance.--The applicant shall be eligible for a 
     secret clearance.
       ``(5) Education.--The applicant shall be enrolled in a 
     college degree program at--
       ``(A) an institution of higher education described in 
     section 371(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
     1067q(a));
       ``(B) an institution of higher education (as defined in 
     section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 
     1001)) that, at the time of the application has had for 3 
     consecutive years an enrollment of undergraduate full-time 
     equivalent students (as defined in section 312(e) of such Act 
     (20 U.S.C. 1058(e))) that is a total of at least 50 percent 
     Black American, Hispanic American, Asian American (as defined 
     in section 371(c) of such Act (20 U.S.C. 1067q(c))), Native 
     American Pacific Islander (as defined in such section), or 
     Native American (as defined in such section), among other 
     criteria, as determined by the Commandant; or
       ``(C) an institution that meets the eligibility 
     requirements for funding as a rural-serving institution of 
     higher education under section 861 of the Higher Education 
     Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1161q).
       ``(6) Location.--The institution at which the applicant is 
     an undergraduate shall be within 100 miles of a Coast Guard 
     unit or Coast Guard Recruiting Office unless otherwise 
     approved by the Commandant.
       ``(7) Records.--The applicant shall meet credit and grade 
     point average requirements set forth by the Commandant.
       ``(8) Medical and administrative.--The applicant shall meet 
     other medical and administrative requirements as set forth by 
     the Commandant.
       ``(c) Financial Assistance.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Commandant may provide financial 
     assistance to enlisted members of the Coast Guard Reserve on 
     active duty participating in the Program, for expenses of the 
     enlisted member while the enlisted member is enrolled, on a 
     full-time basis, in a college degree program approved by the 
     Commandant at a college, university, or institution of higher 
     education described in subsection (b)(5) that leads to--
       ``(A) a baccalaureate degree in not more than 5 academic 
     years; or
       ``(B) a post-baccalaureate degree.
       ``(2) Written agreements.--To be eligible for financial 
     assistance under this section, an enlisted member of the 
     Coast Guard Reserve shall enter into a written agreement with 
     the Coast Guard that notifies the Reserve enlisted member of 
     the obligations of that member under this section, and in 
     which the member agrees to the following:
       ``(A) The member shall complete an approved college degree 
     program at a college, university, or institution of higher 
     education described in subsection (b)(5).
       ``(B) The member shall satisfactorily complete all required 
     Coast Guard training and participate in monthly military 
     activities of the Program as required by the Commandant.
       ``(C) Upon graduation from the college, university, or 
     institution of higher education described in subsection 
     (b)(5), the member shall--
       ``(i) accept an appointment, if tendered, as a commissioned 
     officer in the Coast Guard Reserve; and
       ``(ii) serve a period of obligated active duty for a 
     minimum of 3 years immediately after such appointment as 
     follows:

       ``(I) Members participating in the Program shall be 
     obligated to serve on active duty 3 months for each month of 
     instruction for which they receive financial assistance 
     pursuant to this section for the first 12 months and 1 month 
     for each month thereafter, or 3 years, whichever is greater.
       ``(II) The period of obligated active duty service incurred 
     while participating in the Program shall be in addition to 
     any other

[[Page S1533]]

     obligated service a member may incur due to receiving other 
     bonuses or other benefits as part of any other Coast Guard 
     program.
       ``(III) If an appointment described in clause (i) is not 
     tendered, the member will remain in the Reserve component 
     until completion of the member's enlisted service obligation.

       ``(D) The member shall agree to perform such duties or 
     complete such terms under the conditions of service specified 
     by the Coast Guard.
       ``(3) Expenses.--Expenses for which financial assistance 
     may be provided under this section are the following:
       ``(A) Tuition and fees charged by the college, university, 
     or institution of higher education at which a member is 
     enrolled on a full-time basis.
       ``(B) The cost of books.
       ``(C) In the case of a program of education leading to a 
     baccalaureate degree, laboratory expenses.
       ``(D) Such other expenses as the Commandant considers 
     appropriate, which may not exceed $25,000 for any academic 
     year.
       ``(4) Time limit.--Financial assistance may be provided to 
     a member under this section for up to 5 consecutive academic 
     years.
       ``(5) Breach of agreement.--
       ``(A) In general.--The Secretary may retain in the Coast 
     Guard Reserve, and may order to active duty for such period 
     of time as the Secretary prescribes (but not to exceed 4 
     years), a member who breaches an agreement under paragraph 
     (2). The period of time for which a member is ordered to 
     active duty under this paragraph may be determined without 
     regard to section 651(a) of title 10.
       ``(B) Appropriate enlisted grade or rating.--A member who 
     is retained in the Coast Guard Reserve under subparagraph (A) 
     shall be retained in an appropriate enlisted grade or rating, 
     as determined by the Commandant.
       ``(6) Repayment.--A member who does not fulfill the terms 
     of the obligation to serve as specified under paragraph (2), 
     or the alternative obligation imposed under paragraph (5), 
     shall be subject to the repayment provisions of section 
     303a(e) of title 37.
       ``(d) Briefing.--
       ``(1) In general.--Not later than August 15 of each year 
     following the date of the enactment of the Coast Guard 
     Authorization Act of 2025, the Commandant shall provide a 
     briefing to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives on the Program.
       ``(2) Contents.--The briefing required under paragraph (1) 
     shall describe--
       ``(A) outreach and recruitment efforts over the previous 
     year; and
       ``(B) demographic information of enrollees, including--
       ``(i) race;
       ``(ii) ethnicity;
       ``(iii) gender;
       ``(iv) geographic origin; and
       ``(v) educational institution.''.
       (b) Repeal.--Section 2131 of title 14, United States Code, 
     is repealed.
       (c) Clerical Amendments.--
       (1) The analysis for chapter 21 of title 14, United States 
     Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
     2131.
       (2) The analysis for chapter 37 of title 14, United States 
     Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 
     3710 and inserting the following:

``3710. College student precommissioning initiative.''.

     SEC. 163. TUITION ASSISTANCE AND ADVANCED EDUCATION 
                   ASSISTANCE PILOT PROGRAM.

       (a) Establishment.--Not later than 120 days after the date 
     of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating, acting through the 
     Commandant, shall establish a tuition assistance pilot 
     program for active-duty members of the Coast Guard, to be 
     known as the ``Tuition Assistance and Advanced Education 
     Assistance Pilot Program for Sea Duty'' (referred to in this 
     section as the ``pilot program'').
       (b) Formal Agreement.--A member of the Coast Guard 
     participating in the pilot program shall enter into a formal 
     agreement with the Secretary of the department in which the 
     Coast Guard is operating that provides that, upon the 
     successful completion of a sea duty tour by such member, the 
     Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is 
     operating shall, for a period equal to the length of the sea 
     duty tour, beginning on the date on which the sea duty tour 
     concludes--
       (1) reduce by 1 year the service obligation incurred by 
     such member as a result of participation in the advanced 
     education assistance program under section 2005 of title 10, 
     United States Code, or the tuition assistance program under 
     section 2007 of such title; and
       (2) increase the tuition assistance cost cap for such 
     member to not more than double the amount of the standard 
     tuition assistance cost cap set by the Commandant for the 
     applicable fiscal year.
       (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which 
     the pilot program is established, and annually thereafter 
     through the date on which the pilot program is terminated 
     under subsection (d), the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a report that--
       (1) evaluates and compares--
       (A) the Coast Guard's retention, recruitment, and filling 
     of sea duty billets for all members of the Coast Guard; and
       (B) the Coast Guard's retention, recruitment, and filling 
     of sea duty billets for all members of the Coast Guard 
     participating in the pilot program;
       (2) includes the number of participants in the pilot 
     program as of the date of the report, disaggregated by 
     officer and enlisted billet type; and
       (3) assesses the progress made by such participants in 
     their respective voluntary education programs, in accordance 
     with their degree plans, during the period described in 
     subsection (b).
       (d) Termination.--The pilot program shall terminate on the 
     date that is 6 years after the date on which the pilot 
     program is established.

     SEC. 164. MODIFICATIONS TO CAREER FLEXIBILITY PROGRAM.

       Section 2514 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (c)(3) by striking ``2 months'' and 
     inserting ``30 days''; and
       (2) in subsection (h)--
       (A) in paragraph (1) by striking ``and'' at the end;
       (B) in paragraph (2) by striking the period and inserting a 
     semicolon; 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 subchapter II of 
     chapter 75 of title 10;
       ``(4) the provision of all travel and transportation 
     allowances to family members of a deceased member to attend 
     the repatriation, burial, or memorial ceremony of a deceased 
     member as provided in section 453(f) of title 37;
       ``(5) the eligibility of the member for general benefits as 
     provided in part II of title 38; and
       ``(6) in the case of a victim of an alleged sex-related 
     offense (as such term is defined in section 1044e(h) of title 
     10) to the maximum extent practicable, maintaining access 
     to--
       ``(A) Coast Guard behavioral health resources;
       ``(B) sexual assault prevention and response resources and 
     programs of the Coast Guard; and
       ``(C) Coast Guard legal resources, including, to the extent 
     practicable, special victims' counsel.''.

     SEC. 165. RECRUITMENT, RELOCATION, AND RETENTION INCENTIVE 
                   PROGRAM FOR CIVILIAN FIREFIGHTERS EMPLOYED BY 
                   COAST GUARD IN REMOTE LOCATIONS.

       (a) Identification of Remote Locations.--The Commandant 
     shall identify locations to be considered remote locations 
     for purposes of this section, which shall include, at a 
     minimum, each Coast Guard fire station located in an area in 
     which members of the Coast Guard and the dependents of such 
     members are eligible for the TRICARE Prime Remote program.
       (b) Incentive Program.--
       (1) In general.--To ensure uninterrupted operations by 
     civilian firefighters employed by the Coast Guard in remote 
     locations, the Commandant shall establish an incentive 
     program for such firefighters consisting of--
       (A) recruitment and relocation bonuses consistent with 
     section 5753 of title 5, United States Code; and
       (B) retention bonuses consistent with section 5754 of title 
     5, United States Code.
       (2) Eligibility criteria.--The Commandant, in coordination 
     with the Director of the Office of Personnel and Management, 
     shall establish eligibility criteria for the incentive 
     program established under paragraph (1), which shall include 
     a requirement that a firefighter described in paragraph (1) 
     may only be eligible for the incentive program under this 
     section if, with respect to the applicable remote location, 
     the Commandant has made a determination that incentives are 
     appropriate to address an identified recruitment, retention, 
     or relocation need.
       (c) Annual Report.--Not less frequently than annually for 
     the 5-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this 
     Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on 
     Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and 
     the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
     House of Representatives a report that--
       (1) details the use and effectiveness of the incentive 
     program established under this section; and
       (2) includes--
       (A) the number of participants in the incentive program;
       (B) a description of the distribution of incentives under 
     such program; and
       (C) a description of the impact of such program on civilian 
     firefighter recruitment and retention by the Coast Guard in 
     remote locations.

     SEC. 166. REINSTATEMENT OF TRAINING COURSE ON WORKINGS OF 
                   CONGRESS; COAST GUARD MUSEUM.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 3 of title 14, United States Code, 
     is amended by--
       (1) transferring section 316 to appear after section 323 
     and redesignating such section as section 324; and
       (2) inserting after section 315 the following:

[[Page S1534]]

  


     ``Sec. 316. Training course on workings of Congress

       ``(a) In General.--The Commandant, and such other 
     individuals and organizations as the Commandant considers 
     appropriate, shall develop a training course on the workings 
     of Congress and offer such training course at least once each 
     year.
       ``(b) Course Subject Matter.--The training course required 
     by this section shall provide an overview and introduction to 
     Congress and the Federal legislative process, including--
       ``(1) the history and structure of Congress and the 
     committee systems of the House of Representatives and the 
     Senate, including the functions and responsibilities of the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
     and Transportation of the Senate;
       ``(2) the documents produced by Congress, including bills, 
     resolutions, committee reports, and conference reports, and 
     the purposes and functions of such documents;
       ``(3) the legislative processes and rules of the House of 
     Representatives and the Senate, including similarities and 
     differences between the 2 processes and 2 sets of rules, 
     including--
       ``(A) the congressional budget process;
       ``(B) the congressional authorization and appropriation 
     processes;
       ``(C) the Senate advice and consent process for 
     Presidential nominees; and
       ``(D) the Senate advice and consent process for treaty 
     ratification;
       ``(4) the roles of Members of Congress and congressional 
     staff in the legislative process; and
       ``(5) the concept and underlying purposes of congressional 
     oversight within the governance framework of separation of 
     powers.
       ``(c) Lecturers and Panelists.--
       ``(1) Outside experts.--The Commandant shall ensure that 
     not less than 60 percent of the lecturers, panelists, and 
     other individuals providing education and instruction as part 
     of the training course required under this section are 
     experts on Congress and the Federal legislative process who 
     are not employed by the executive branch of the Federal 
     Government.
       ``(2) Authority to accept pro bono services.--In satisfying 
     the requirement under paragraph (1), the Commandant shall 
     seek, and may accept, educational and instructional services 
     of lecturers, panelists, and other individuals and 
     organizations provided to the Coast Guard on a pro bono 
     basis.
       ``(d) Effect of Law.--
       ``(1) In general.--The training required by this section 
     shall replace the substantially similar training that was 
     required by the Commandant on the day before the date of the 
     enactment of this section.
       ``(2) Previous training recipients.--A Coast Guard flag 
     officer or a Coast Guard Senior Executive Service employee 
     who, not more than 3 years before the date of the enactment 
     of this section, completed the training that was required by 
     the Commandant on the day before such date of enactment, 
     shall not be required to complete the training required by 
     this section.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 3 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) by striking the item relating to section 316 and 
     inserting after the item relating to section 323 the 
     following:

``324. Training for congressional affairs personnel.''.
       (2) by inserting after the item relating to section 315 the 
     following:

``316. Training course on workings of Congress.''.
       (c) Services and Use of Funds for, and Leasing of, the 
     National Coast Guard Museum.--Section 324 of title 14, United 
     States Code, as transferred and redesignated by subsection 
     (a), 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 ``on the engineering and 
     design of a Museum.'' and inserting ``on--''
       ``(A) the design of the Museum; and
       ``(B) engineering, construction administration, and quality 
     assurance services for the Museum.'';
       (2) in subsection (e), by amending paragraph (2)(A) to read 
     as follows:
       ``(2)(A) for the purpose of conducting Coast Guard 
     operations, lease from the Association--
       ``(i) the Museum; and
       ``(ii) any property owned by the Association that is 
     adjacent to the railroad tracks that are adjacent to the 
     property on which the Museum is located; 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, from nonprofits entities including the 
     Association,--
       ``(1) solicit and accept services; and
       ``(2) enter into contracts or memoranda of agreement to 
     acquire such services.''.

     SEC. 167. MODIFICATION OF DESIGNATION OF VICE ADMIRALS.

       (a) In General.--Section 305(a)(1) of title 14, United 
     States Code, is amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking 
     ``may'' and inserting ``shall''; and
       (2) in subparagraph (A)(ii) by striking ``be the Chief of 
     Staff of the Coast Guard'' and inserting ``oversee personnel 
     management, workforce and dependent support, training, and 
     related matters''.
       (b) Reorganization.--Chapter 3 of title 14, United States 
     Code, is further amended by redesignating sections 312 
     through 324 as sections 314 through 326, respectively.
       (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 3 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is further amended by 
     redesignating the items relating to sections 312 through 324 
     as relating to sections 314 through 326, respectively.

     SEC. 168. COMMANDANT ADVISORY JUDGE ADVOCATE.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 3 of title 14, United States Code, 
     is further amended by inserting after section 311 the 
     following:

     ``Sec. 312. Commandant Advisory Judge Advocate

       ``There shall be in the Coast Guard a Commandant Advisory 
     Judge Advocate who is a judge advocate in a grade of O-6. The 
     Commandant Advisory Judge Advocate shall be assigned to the 
     staff of the Commandant in the first regularly scheduled O-6 
     officer assignment panel to convene following the date of the 
     enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 and 
     perform such duties relating to legal matters arising in the 
     Coast Guard as such legal matters relate to the Commandant, 
     as may be assigned.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment .--The analysis for chapter 3 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is further amended by inserting 
     after the item relating to section 311 the following item:

``312. Commandant Advisory Judge Advocate.''.

     SEC. 169. SPECIAL ADVISOR TO COMMANDANT FOR TRIBAL AND NATIVE 
                   HAWAIIAN AFFAIRS.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 3 of title 14, United States Code, 
     is amended by inserting after section 312 the following:

     ``Sec. 313. Special Advisor to Commandant for Tribal and 
       Native Hawaiian Affairs

       ``(a) In General.--In accordance with Federal trust 
     responsibilities and treaty obligations, laws, and policies 
     relevant to Indian Tribes and in support of the principles of 
     self-determination, self-governance, and co-management with 
     respect to Indian Tribes, and to support engagement with 
     Native Hawaiians, there shall be in the Coast Guard a Special 
     Advisor to the Commandant for Tribal and Native Hawaiian 
     Affairs (in this section referred to as the `Special 
     Advisor'), who shall--
       ``(1) be selected by the Secretary and the Commandant 
     through a competitive search process;
       ``(2) have expertise in Federal Indian law and policy, 
     including government-to-government consultation;
       ``(3) to the maximum extent practicable, have expertise in 
     legal and policy issues affecting Native Hawaiians; and
       ``(4) have an established record of distinguished service 
     and achievement working with Indian Tribes, Tribal 
     organizations, and Native Hawaiian organizations.
       ``(b) Career Reserved Position.--The position of Special 
     Advisor shall be a career reserved position at the GS-15 
     level or greater.
       ``(c) Duties.--The Special Advisor shall--
       ``(1) ensure the Federal government upholds the Federal 
     trust responsibility and conducts consistent, meaningful, and 
     timely government-to-government consultation and engagement 
     with Indian Tribes, which shall meet or exceed the standards 
     of the Federal Government and the Coast Guard;
       ``(2) ensure meaningful and timely engagement with--
       ``(A) Native Hawaiian organizations; and
       ``(B) Tribal organizations;
       ``(3) advise the Commandant on all policies of the Coast 
     Guard that have Tribal implications in accordance with 
     applicable law and policy, including Executive Orders;
       ``(4) work to ensure that the policies of the Federal 
     Government regarding consultation and engagement with Indian 
     Tribes and engagement with Native Hawaiian organizations and 
     Tribal organizations are implemented in a meaningful manner, 
     working through Coast Guard leadership and across the Coast 
     Guard, together with--
       ``(A) liaisons located within Coast Guard districts;
       ``(B) the Director of Coast Guard Governmental and Public 
     Affairs; and
       ``(C) other Coast Guard leadership and programs and other 
     Federal partners; and
       ``(5) support Indian Tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, 
     and Tribal organizations in all matters under the 
     jurisdiction of the Coast Guard.
       ``(d) Direct Access to Secretary and Commandant.--No 
     officer or employee of the Coast Guard or the Department of 
     Homeland Security may interfere with the ability of the 
     Special Advisor to give direct and independent advice to the 
     Secretary and the Commandant on matters related to this 
     section.
       ``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
       ``(1) 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).
       ``(2) Native hawaiian organization.--The term `Native 
     Hawaiian organization' has the meaning given such term in 
     section 6207 of the Elementary and Secondary Education

[[Page S1535]]

     Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 7517) except the term includes the 
     Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and the Office of Hawaiian 
     Affairs.
       ``(3) Tribal organization.--The term `Tribal organization' 
     has the meaning given the term in section 4 of the Indian 
     Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 
     5304).''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 3 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 312 the following:

``313. Special Advisor to Commandant for Tribal and Native Hawaiian 
              Affairs.''.
       (c) Briefings.--
       (1) Initial briefing.--Not later than 120 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall brief the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the 
     Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives on the manner in which the Special Advisor 
     for Tribal and Native Hawaiian Affairs will be incorporated 
     into the governance structure of the Coast Guard, including a 
     timeline for the incorporation that is completed not later 
     than 1 year after date of enactment of this Act.
       (2) Annual briefings on special advisor to the commandant 
     tor tribal and native hawaiian affairs.--Not later than 1 
     year after the date of the establishment of the position of 
     the Special Advisor to the Commandant for Tribal and Native 
     Hawaiian Affairs under section 313 of title 14, United States 
     Code, and annually thereafter for 2 years, the Commandant 
     shall provide the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Technology and the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate 
     and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
     House of Representatives with a briefing on the duties, 
     responsibilities, and actions of the Special Advisor to the 
     Commandant for Tribal and Native Hawaiian Affairs, including 
     management of best practices.
       (3) Briefing on collaboration with tribes on research 
     consistent with coast guard mission requirements.--
       (A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall provide the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Technology and the 
     Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives with a briefing on potential collaborations 
     on and research and use of indigenous place-based knowledge 
     and research.
       (B) Element.--In providing the briefing under subparagraph 
     (A), the Commandant shall identify current and potential 
     future opportunities to improve coordination with Indian 
     Tribes, Native Hawaiian organizations, and Tribal 
     organizations to support--
       (i) Coast Guard mission needs, such as the potential for 
     research or knowledge to enhance maritime domain awareness, 
     including opportunities through the ADAC-ARCTIC Center of 
     Excellence of the Department of Homeland Security; and
       (ii) Coast Guard efforts to protect indigenous place-based 
     knowledge and research.
       (4) Definitions.--In this subsection:
       (A) Indian tribe.--The term ``Indian Tribe'' has the 
     meaning given that term in section 4 of the Indian Self-
     Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 5304).
       (B) Native hawaiian organization.--The term ``Native 
     Hawaiian organization'' has the meaning given such term in 
     section 6207 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 
     1965 (20 U.S.C. 7517) except the term includes the Department 
     of Hawaiian Home Lands and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.
       (C) Tribal organization.--The term ``Tribal organization'' 
     has the meaning given the term in section 4 of the Indian 
     Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (25 U.S.C. 
     5304).
       (d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section, or an 
     amendment made by this section, shall be construed to 
     impact--
       (1) the right of any Indian Tribe (as defined in section 4 
     of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act 
     (25 U.S.C. 5304); or
       (2) any government-to-government consultation.
       (e) Conforming Amendments.--
       (1) Section 11237 of the Don Young Coast Guard 
     Authorization Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263) is amended--
       (A) in subsection (a), by striking ``section 312 of title 
     14'' and inserting ``section 315 of title 14''; and
       (B) in subsection (b)(2)(A), by striking ``section 312 of 
     title 14'' and inserting ``section 315 of title 14''.
       (2) Section 807(a) of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard 
     Authorization Act of 2018 (Public Law 115-282) is amended by 
     striking ``section 313 of title 14'' and inserting ``section 
     316 of title 14''.
       (3) Section 3533(a) of the National Defense Authorization 
     Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (Public Law 118-31) is amended by 
     striking ``section 315 of title 14'' and inserting ``section 
     318 of title 14''.
       (4) Section 311(j)(9)(D) of the Federal Water Pollution 
     Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321(j)(9)(D)) is amended by striking 
     ``section 323 of title 14'' each place it appears and 
     inserting ``section 325 of title 14'' each such place.

     SEC. 170. NOTIFICATION.

       (a) In General.--The Commandant shall provide to the 
     appropriate committees of Congress notification as described 
     in subsection (b)--
       (1) not later than the date that is 10 days before the 
     final day of each fiscal year; or
       (2) in the case of a continuing resolution that, for a 
     period of more than 10 days, provides appropriated funds in 
     lieu of an appropriations Act, not later than the date that 
     is 10 days before the final day of the period that such 
     continuing resolution covers.
       (b) Elements.--Notification under subsection (a) shall 
     include--
       (1) the status of funding for the Coast Guard during the 
     subsequent fiscal year or at the end of the continuing 
     resolution if other appropriations measures are not enacted, 
     as applicable;
       (2) the status of the Coast Guard as a component of the 
     Armed Forces;
       (3) the number of members currently serving overseas and 
     otherwise supporting missions related to title 10, United 
     States Code;
       (4) the fact that members of the Armed Forces have service 
     requirements unlike those of other Federal employees, which 
     require them to continue to serve even if unpaid;
       (5) the impacts of historical shutdowns of the Federal 
     Government on members of the Coast Guard; and
       (6) other relevant matters, as determined by the 
     Commandant.
       (c) Appropriate Committees of Congress Defined.--In this 
     section, the term ``appropriate committees of Congress'' 
     means--
       (1) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation 
     of the Senate;
       (2) the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate;
       (3) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of 
     the House of Representatives; and
       (4) the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
     Representatives.

                    Subtitle E--Coast Guard Academy

     SEC. 171. MODIFICATION OF BOARD OF VISITORS.

       Section 1903 of title 14, United States Code, is amended to 
     read as follows:

     ``Sec. 1903. Annual Board of Visitors

       ``(a) In General.--The Commandant shall establish a Board 
     of Visitors to the Coast Guard Academy to review and make 
     recommendations on the operation of the Academy.
       ``(b) Membership.--
       ``(1) In general.--The membership of the Board shall 
     consist of the following:
       ``(A) The chairperson of the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate, or a member of 
     such Committee designated by such chairperson.
       ``(B) The chairperson of the Committee on Transportation 
     and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, or a 
     member of such Committee designated by such chairperson.
       ``(C) 3 Senators appointed by the Vice President.
       ``(D) 4 Members of the House of Representatives appointed 
     by the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
       ``(E) 2 Senators appointed by the Vice President, each of 
     whom shall be selected from among members of the Committee on 
     Appropriations of the Senate.
       ``(F) 2 Members of the House of Representatives appointed 
     by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, each of whom 
     shall be selected from among members of the Committee on 
     Appropriations of the House of Representatives.
       ``(G) 6 individuals designated by the President.
       ``(2) Timing of appointments of members.--
       ``(A) If any member of the Board described in paragraph 
     (1)(C) is not appointed by the date that is 180 days after 
     the date on which the first session of each Congress 
     convenes, the chair and ranking member of the subcommittee of 
     the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate with jurisdiction over the authorization of 
     appropriations of the Coast Guard shall be members of the 
     Board until the date on which the second session of such 
     Congress adjourns sine die.
       ``(B) If any member of the Board described in paragraph 
     (1)(D) is not appointed by the date that is 180 days after 
     the date on which the first session of each Congress 
     convenes, the chair and ranking member of the subcommittee of 
     the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
     House of Representatives with jurisdiction over the 
     authorization of appropriations for the Coast Guard shall be 
     members of the Board until the date on which the second 
     session of such Congress adjourns sine die.
       ``(C) If any member of the Board described in paragraph 
     (1)(E) is not appointed by the date that is 180 days after 
     the date on which the first session of each Congress 
     convenes, the chair and ranking member of the subcommittee of 
     the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate with 
     jurisdiction over appropriations for the Coast Guard shall be 
     members of the Board until the date on which the second 
     session of such Congress adjourns sine die.
       ``(D) If any member of the Board described in paragraph 
     (1)(F) is not appointed by the date that is 180 days after 
     the date on which the first session of each Congress 
     convenes, the chair and ranking member of the subcommittee of 
     the Committee on Appropriations of the House of 
     Representatives with jurisdiction over appropriations for the 
     Coast Guard shall be members of the Board until the date on 
     which the second session of such Congress adjourns sine die.

[[Page S1536]]

       ``(3) Chairperson.--
       ``(A) In general.--On a biennial basis and subject to 
     paragraph (4), the Board shall select from among the members 
     of the Board a Member of Congress to serve as the Chair of 
     the Board.
       ``(B) Rotation.--A Member of the House of Representatives 
     and a Member of the Senate shall alternately be selected as 
     the Chair of the Board.
       ``(C) Term.--An individual may not serve as Chairperson of 
     the Board for consecutive terms.
       ``(4) Length of service.--
       ``(A) Members of congress.--A Member of Congress designated 
     as a member of the Board under paragraph (1) shall be 
     designated as a member in the first session of the applicable 
     Congress and shall serve for the duration of such Congress.
       ``(B) Individuals designated by the president.--Each 
     individual designated by the President under paragraph (1)(G) 
     shall serve as a member of the Board for 3 years, except that 
     any such member whose term of office has expired shall 
     continue to serve until a successor is appointed by the 
     President.
       ``(C) Death or resignation of a member.--If a member of the 
     Board dies or resigns, a successor shall be designated for 
     any unexpired portion of the term of the member by the 
     official who designated the member.
       ``(c) Duties.--
       ``(1) Academy visits.--
       ``(A) Annual visit.--The Commandant shall invite each 
     member of the Board, and any designee of a member of the 
     Board, to visit the Coast Guard Academy at least once 
     annually to review the operation of the Academy.
       ``(B) Additional visits.--With the approval of the 
     Secretary, the Board or any members of the Board in 
     connection with the duties of the Board may--
       ``(i) make visits to the Academy in addition to the visits 
     described in subparagraph (A); or
       ``(ii) consult with--

       ``(I) the Superintendent of the Academy; or
       ``(II) the faculty, staff, or cadets of the Academy.

       ``(C) Access.--The Commandant shall ensure that the Board 
     or any members of the Board who visits the Academy under this 
     paragraph is provided reasonable access to the grounds, 
     facilities, cadets, faculty, staff, and other personnel of 
     the Academy for the purpose of carrying out the duties of the 
     Board.
       ``(2) Oversight review.--In conducting oversight of the 
     Academy under this section, the Board shall review, with 
     respect to the Academy--
       ``(A) the state of morale and discipline, including with 
     respect to prevention of, response to, and recovery from 
     sexual assault and sexual harassment;
       ``(B) recruitment and retention, including diversity, 
     inclusion, and issues regarding women specifically;
       ``(C) the curriculum;
       ``(D) instruction;
       ``(E) physical equipment, including infrastructure, living 
     quarters, and deferred maintenance;
       ``(F) fiscal affairs; and
       ``(G) any other matter relating to the Academy the Board 
     considers appropriate.
       ``(d) Administrative Matters.--
       ``(1) Meetings.--
       ``(A) In general.--Not less frequently than annually, the 
     Board shall meet at a location chosen by the Commandant, in 
     consultation with the Board, to conduct the review required 
     by subsection (c)(2).
       ``(B) Chairperson and charter.--The Federal officer 
     designated under subsection (f)(1)(B) shall organize a 
     meeting of the Board for the purposes of--
       ``(i) selecting a Chairperson of the Board under subsection 
     (b)(3);
       ``(ii) adopting an official charter for the Board, which 
     shall establish the schedule of meetings of the Board; and
       ``(iii) any other matter such designated Federal officer or 
     the Board considers appropriate.
       ``(C) Scheduling.--In scheduling a meeting of the Board, 
     such designated Federal officer shall coordinate, to the 
     greatest extent practicable, with the members of the Board to 
     determine the date and time of the meeting.
       ``(D) Notification.--Not less than 30 days before each 
     scheduled meeting of the Board, such designated Federal 
     officer shall notify each member of the Board of the time, 
     date, and location of the meeting.
       ``(2) Staff.--
       ``(A) Designation.--The chairperson and the ranking member 
     of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of 
     the Senate and the chairperson and the ranking member of the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives may each designate 1 staff member of each 
     such Committees.
       ``(B) Role.--Staff designated under subparagraph (A)--
       ``(i) may attend and participate in visits and carry out 
     consultations described under subsection (c)(1) and attend 
     and participate in meetings described under paragraph (1); 
     and
       ``(ii) may not otherwise carry out duties or take actions 
     reserved to members of the Board under this section.
       ``(3) Advisors.--If approved by the Secretary, the Board 
     may consult with advisors in carrying out the duties of the 
     Board under this section.
       ``(4) Reports.--
       ``(A) In general.--Not later than 60 days after the date on 
     which the Board conducts a meeting of the Board under 
     paragraph (1), the Deputy Commandant for Mission Support, in 
     consultation with the Board, shall submit a report on the 
     actions of the Board during the meeting and the 
     recommendations of the Board pertaining to the Academy to--
       ``(i) the Secretary;
       ``(ii) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation and the Committee on Armed Services of the 
     Senate; and
       ``(iii) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     and the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
     Representatives.
       ``(B) Publication.--Each report submitted under this 
     paragraph shall be published on a publicly accessible website 
     of the Coast Guard.
       ``(e) Disclosure.--The Commandant and the Superintendent of 
     the Academy shall ensure candid and complete disclosure to 
     the Board, consistent with applicable laws relating to 
     disclosure of information, with respect to--
       ``(1) each issue described in subsection (c)(2); and
       ``(2) any other issue the Board or the Commandant considers 
     appropriate.
       ``(f) Coast Guard Support.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Commandant shall--
       ``(A) provide support to the Board, as Board considers 
     necessary for the performance of the duties of the Board;
       ``(B) designate a Federal officer to support the 
     performance of the duties of the Board; and
       ``(C) in cooperation with the Superintendent of the 
     Academy, advise the Board of any institutional issues, 
     consistent with applicable laws concerning the disclosure of 
     information.
       ``(2) Reimbursement.--Each member of the Board and each 
     advisor consulted by the Board under subsection (d)(3) shall 
     be reimbursed, to the extent permitted by law, by the Coast 
     Guard for actual expenses incurred while engaged in duties as 
     a member or advisor.
       ``(g) Notification.--Not later than 30 days after the date 
     on which the first session of each Congress convenes, the 
     Commandant shall provide to the chairperson and ranking 
     member of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the chairperson and ranking 
     member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives, and the President 
     notification of the requirements of this section.''.

     SEC. 172. STUDY ON COAST GUARD ACADEMY OVERSIGHT.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 30 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant, shall 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 oversight and governance of the 
     Coast Guard Academy, including--
       (1) examining the--
       (A) authorities regarding Coast Guard and Departmental 
     oversight of the Coast Guard Academy, including 
     considerations of how these may impact accreditation review 
     at the academy;
       (B) roles and responsibilities of the Board of Trustees of 
     such Academy;
       (C) Coast Guard roles and responsibilities with respect to 
     management and facilitation of the Board of Trustees of such 
     Academy;
       (D) advisory functions of the Board of Trustees of such 
     Academy; and
       (E) membership of the Board of Trustees for the 10-year 
     period preceding the date of the enactment of this Act, to 
     include expertise, objectiveness, and effectiveness in 
     conducting oversight of such Academy; and
       (2) an analysis of the involvement of the Board of Trustees 
     during the Operation Fouled Anchor investigation, including 
     to what extent the Board members were informed, involved, or 
     made decisions regarding the governance of the academy based 
     on that investigation.
       (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which 
     the Commandant enters into an agreement under subsection (a), 
     the federally funded research and development center selected 
     under such subsection shall submit to the Secretary of the 
     department in which the Coast Guard is operating, the 
     Commandant, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report that contains--
       (1) the results of the assessment required under subsection 
     (a); and
       (2) recommendations to improve governance of the Coast 
     Guard Academy and the Board of Trustees.

     SEC. 173. ELECTRONIC LOCKING MECHANISMS TO ENSURE COAST GUARD 
                   ACADEMY CADET ROOM SECURITY.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant, in consultation with 
     the Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy (referred to in 
     this section as the ``Superintendent''), shall--
       (1) install an electronic locking mechanism for each room 
     at the Coast Guard Academy within which 1 or more Coast Guard 
     Academy cadets reside overnight;
       (2) test each such mechanism not less than once every 6 
     months for proper function and maintained in proper working 
     order; and
       (3) use a system that electronically records the date, 
     time, and identity of each individual who accesses a cadet 
     room using an

[[Page S1537]]

     electronic access token, code, card, or other electronic 
     means, which shall be maintained in accordance with the 
     general schedule for records retention, or a period of five 
     years, whichever is later.
       (b) Electronic Locking Mechanisms.--
       (1) In general.--Each electronic locking mechanism 
     described in subsection (a) shall be coded in a manner that 
     provides access to a room described in such subsection only 
     to--
       (A) the 1 or more cadets assigned to the room; and
       (B) such Coast Guard Academy officers, administrators, 
     staff, or security personnel, including personnel of the 
     Coast Guard Investigative Service, as are necessary to access 
     the room in the event of an emergency.
       (2) Existing mechanisms.--Not later than 30 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Superintendent shall 
     ensure that electronic locking mechanisms installed in 
     academic buildings of the Coast Guard Academy, Chase Hall 
     common spaces, and in any other location at the Coast Guard 
     Academy are maintained in proper working order.
       (c) Access Policy Instruction.--Not later than 1 year after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, the Superintendent shall 
     promulgate a policy regarding cadet room security policies 
     and procedures, which shall include, at a minimum--
       (1) a prohibition on sharing with any other cadet, 
     employee, or other individual electronic access tokens, 
     codes, cards, or other electronic means of accessing a cadet 
     room;
       (2) procedures for resetting electronic locking mechanisms 
     in the event of a lost, stolen, or otherwise compromised 
     electronic access token, code, card, or other electronic 
     means of accessing a cadet room;
       (3) procedures to maintain the identity of each individual 
     who accesses a cadet room using an electronic access token, 
     code, card, or other electronic means, while ensuring the 
     security of personally identifiable information and 
     protecting the privacy of any such individual, as 
     appropriate;
       (4) procedures by which cadets may report to the chain of 
     command the malfunction of an electronic locking mechanism; 
     and
       (5) a schedule of testing to ensure the proper functioning 
     of electronic locking mechanisms.
       (d) Minimum Training Requirements.--The Superintendent 
     shall ensure that each Coast Guard Academy cadet receives, 
     not later than 1 day after the date of the initial arrival of 
     the cadet at the Coast Guard Academy, an initial training 
     session, and any other training the Superintendent considers 
     necessary, on--
       (1) the use of electronic locking mechanisms installed 
     under this section; and
       (2) the policy promulgated under subsection (c).

     SEC. 174. COAST GUARD ACADEMY STUDENT ADVISORY BOARD AND 
                   ACCESS TO TIMELY AND INDEPENDENT WELLNESS 
                   SUPPORT SERVICES FOR CADETS AND CANDIDATES.

       (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. Coast Guard Academy Student and Women Advisory 
       Board

       ``(a) Establishment.--The Commandant shall establish within 
     the Coast Guard Academy an advisory board to be known as the 
     `Coast Guard Academy Student and Women Advisory Board' (in 
     this section referred to as the `Advisory Board').
       ``(b) Membership.--The Advisory Board shall be composed of 
     not fewer than 12 cadets of the Coast Guard Academy who are 
     enrolled at the Coast Guard Academy at the time of 
     appointment, including not fewer than 3 cadets from each 
     class.
       ``(c) Appointment.--
       ``(1) In general.--Cadets shall be appointed to the 
     Advisory Board by the Provost, in consultation with the 
     Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy.
       ``(2) Application.--Cadets who are eligible for appointment 
     to the Advisory Board shall submit an application for 
     appointment to the Provost of the Coast Guard Academy, or a 
     designee of the Provost, for consideration.
       ``(d) Selection.--The Provost shall select eligible 
     applicants who--
       ``(1) are best suited to fulfill the duties described in 
     subsection (g); and
       ``(2) best represent the student body makeup at the Coast 
     Guard Academy.
       ``(e) Term.--
       ``(1) In general.--Appointments shall be made not later 
     than 60 days after the date of the swearing in of a new class 
     of cadets at the Coast Guard Academy.
       ``(2) Term.--The term of membership of a cadet on the 
     Advisory Board shall be 1 academic year.
       ``(f) Meetings.--The Advisory Board shall meet in person 
     with the Superintendent not less frequently than twice each 
     academic year to discuss the activities of the Advisory 
     Board.
       ``(g) Duties.--The Advisory Board shall--
       ``(1) identify challenges facing Coast Guard Academy 
     cadets, including cadets who are women, relating to--
       ``(A) health and wellbeing;
       ``(B) cadet perspectives and information with respect to 
     sexual assault, sexual harassment and sexual violence 
     prevention, response, and recovery at the Coast Guard 
     Academy;
       ``(C) the culture of, and leadership development and access 
     to health care for, cadets at the Academy who are women; and
       ``(D) any other matter the Advisory Board considers 
     important;
       ``(2) discuss and propose possible solutions to such 
     challenges, including improvements to leadership development 
     at the Coast Guard Academy; and
       ``(3) periodically review the efficacy of Coast Guard 
     Academy academic, wellness, and other relevant programs and 
     provide recommendations to the Commandant for improvement of 
     such programs.
       ``(h) Working Groups.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Advisory Board shall establish 2 
     working groups of which--
       ``(A) 1 working group shall be composed, at least in part, 
     of Coast Guard Academy cadets who are not current members of 
     the Advisory Board and members of the Cadets Against Sexual 
     Assault, or any similar successor organization, to assist the 
     Advisory Board in carrying out its duties under subsection 
     (g)(1)(B); and
       ``(B) 1 working group shall be composed, at least in part, 
     of Coast Guard Academy cadets who are not current members of 
     the Advisory Board to assist the Advisory Board in carrying 
     out its duties under subsection (g)(1)(C).
       ``(2) Other working groups.--The Advisory Board may 
     establish such other working groups (which may be composed, 
     at least in part, of Coast Guard Academy cadets who are not 
     current members of the Advisory Board) as the Advisory Board 
     finds to be necessary to carry out the Board's duties other 
     than the duties in subparagraphs (B) and (C) of subsection 
     (g)(1).
       ``(i) Reporting.--
       ``(1) Commandant and superintendent.--The Advisory Board 
     shall regularly submit a report or provide a briefing to the 
     Commandant and the Superintendent on the results of the 
     activities carried out in furtherance of the duties of the 
     Advisory Board under subsection (g), including 
     recommendations for actions to be taken based on such 
     results, not less than once per academic semester.
       ``(2) Annual report.--The Advisory Board shall transmit to 
     the Commandant, through the Provost and the Superintendent an 
     annual report at the conclusion of the academic year, 
     containing the information and materials that were presented 
     to the Commandant or Superintendent, or both, during the 
     regularly occurring briefings under paragraph (1).
       ``(3) Congress.--The Commandant shall provide to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives any report or other materials 
     provided to the Commandant and Superintendent under paragraph 
     (1) and any other information related to the Advisory 
     requested by the Committees.''.
       (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. Coast Guard Academy Student and Women Advisory Board.''.

     SEC. 175. REPORT ON EXISTING BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS 
                   SUPPORT SERVICES FACILITIES AT COAST GUARD 
                   ACADEMY.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant, shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a report on existing 
     behavioral health and wellness support services facilities at 
     the Coast Guard Academy in which Coast Guard Academy cadets 
     and officer candidates, respectively, may receive timely and 
     independent behavioral health and wellness support services, 
     including via telemedicine.
       (b) Elements.--The report required under paragraph (1) 
     shall include--
       (1) an identification of each building at the Coast Guard 
     Academy that contains a dormitory or other overnight 
     accommodations for cadets or officer candidates; and
       (2)(A) an identification of additional behavioral health or 
     wellness support services that would be beneficial to cadets 
     and officer candidates, such as additional facilities with 
     secure access to telemedicine;
       (B) a description of the benefits that such services would 
     provide to cadets and officer candidates, particularly to 
     cadets and officer candidates who have experienced sexual 
     assault or sexual harassment; and
       (C) a description of the resources necessary to provide 
     such services.

     SEC. 176. REQUIRED POSTING OF INFORMATION.

       The Commandant shall ensure that, in each building at the 
     Coast Guard Academy that contains a dormitory or other 
     overnight accommodations for cadets or officer candidates, 
     written information is posted in a visible location with 
     respect to--
       (1) the methods and means by which a cadet or officer 
     candidate may report a crime, including harassment, sexual 
     assault, sexual harassment, and any other offense;
       (2) the contact information for the Coast Guard 
     Investigative Service;
       (3) external resources for--
       (A) wellness support;
       (B) work-life;
       (C) medical services; and
       (D) support relating to behavioral health, civil rights, 
     sexual assault, and sexual harassment; and
       (4) cadet and officer candidate rights with respect to 
     reporting incidents to the Coast Guard Investigative Service, 
     civilian authorities, the Office of the Inspector General

[[Page S1538]]

     of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating, and 
     any other applicable entity.

     SEC. 177. INSTALLATION OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS 
                   ROOMS.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating shall install or construct 
     at the Coast Guard Academy 2 rooms to be used for the purpose 
     of supporting cadet and officer candidate behavioral health 
     and wellness.
       (b) Standards of Rooms.--Each room installed or constructed 
     under this section--
       (1) shall be--
       (A) equipped--
       (i) in a manner that ensures the protection of the privacy 
     of cadets and officer candidates, consistent with law and 
     policy;
       (ii) with a telephone and computer to allow for the 
     provision of behavioral health and wellness support or other 
     services; and
       (iii) with an accessible and private wireless internet 
     connection for the use of personal communications devices at 
     the discretion of the cadet or officer candidate concerned; 
     and
       (B) to the extent practicable and consistent with good 
     order and discipline, accessible to cadets and officer 
     candidates at all times; and
       (2) shall contain the written information described in 
     section 176, which shall be posted in a visible location.

     SEC. 178. COAST GUARD ACADEMY ROOM REASSIGNMENT.

       Section 1902 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by 
     adding at the end the following:
       ``(f) Room Reassignment.--Coast Guard Academy cadets may 
     request room reassignment if experiencing discomfort due to 
     Coast Guard Academy rooming assignments, consistent with 
     policy.''.

     SEC. 179. AUTHORIZATION FOR USE OF COAST GUARD ACADEMY 
                   FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT BY COVERED 
                   FOUNDATIONS.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 19 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

     ``Sec. 1908. Authorization for use of Coast Guard Academy 
       facilities and equipment by covered foundations

       ``(a) Authority.--Subject to subsections (b) and (c), the 
     Secretary, with the concurrence of the Superintendent of the 
     Coast Guard Academy, may authorize a covered foundation to 
     use, on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis as determined 
     by the Secretary, facilities or equipment of the Coast Guard 
     Academy.
       ``(b) Prohibition.--The Secretary may not authorize any use 
     of facilities or equipment under subsection (a) if such use 
     may jeopardize the health, safety, or well-being of any 
     member of the Coast Guard or cadet of the Coast Guard 
     Academy.
       ``(c) Limitations.--The Secretary may only authorize the 
     use of facilities or equipment under subsection (a) if such 
     use--
       ``(1) is without any liability of the United States to the 
     covered foundation;
       ``(2) does not--
       ``(A) 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;
       ``(B) compromise the integrity or appearance of integrity 
     of any program of the Coast Guard, or any individual involved 
     in any such program; or
       ``(C) include the participation of any cadet of the Coast 
     Guard Academy at an event of the covered foundation, other 
     than participation of such a cadet in an honor guard;
       ``(3) complies with any applicable ethics regulation; and
       ``(4) has been reviewed and approved by an attorney of the 
     Coast Guard.
       ``(d) Issuance of Policies.--The Secretary shall issue 
     Coast Guard policies to carry out this section.
       ``(e) Briefing.--For any fiscal year in which the Secretary 
     exercises the authority under subsection (a), not later than 
     the last day of such fiscal year, the Commandant shall 
     provide a briefing to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives on the number of events or activities of a 
     covered foundation supported by such exercise of authority 
     during the fiscal year.
       ``(f) Covered Foundation Defined.--In this section, the 
     term `covered foundation' means an organization that--
       ``(1) is a charitable, educational, or civic nonprofit 
     organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue 
     Code of 1986; and
       ``(2) the Secretary determines operates exclusively to 
     support--
       ``(A) recruiting activities with respect to the Coast Guard 
     Academy;
       ``(B) parent or alumni development in support of the Coast 
     Guard Academy;
       ``(C) academic, leadership, or character development of 
     Coast Guard Academy cadets;
       ``(D) institutional development of the Coast Guard Academy; 
     or
       ``(E) athletics in support of the Coast Guard Academy.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 19 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is further amended by inserting 
     after the item relating to item 1907 the following:

``1908. Authorization for use of Coast Guard Academy facilities and 
              equipment by covered foundations.''.

     SEC. 180. CONCURRENT JURISDICTION AT COAST GUARD ACADEMY.

       Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the Secretary 
     of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating may 
     establish concurrent jurisdiction between the Federal 
     Government and the State of Connecticut over the lands 
     constituting the Coast Guard Academy in New London, 
     Connecticut, as necessary to facilitate the ability of the 
     State of Connecticut and City of New London to investigate 
     and prosecute any crimes cognizable under Connecticut law 
     that are committed on such Coast Guard Academy property.

                          Subtitle F--Reports

     SEC. 181. MARITIME DOMAIN AWARENESS IN COAST GUARD SECTOR FOR 
                   PUERTO RICO AND VIRGIN ISLANDS.

       Not later than 270 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;
       (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. 182. REPORT ON CONDITION OF MISSOURI RIVER DAYBOARDS.

       (a) Provision to Congress.--Not later than 270 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.
       (c) Limitation.--Beginning on the date of enactment of this 
     Act, the Commandant may not remove the aids to navigation 
     covered in subsection (a), unless there is an imminent threat 
     to life or safety, until a period of 180 days has elapsed 
     following the date on which the Commandant submits the report 
     required under subsection (a).

     SEC. 183. 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) An analysis of any budgetary, policy, and manpower 
     factors that may constrain the Coast Guard's ability to carry 
     out such duties and missions,
       (C) An analysis of the impacts to safety, national 
     security, and the economy, of any

[[Page S1539]]

     shortfalls in the Coast Guards ability to meet such missions.
       (D) Recommendations for the Coast Guard to more effectively 
     carry out such duties and missions, in light of manpower and 
     asset constraints.
       (E) Identification of any duties and missions that are 
     being conducted by the Coast Guard on behalf of other 
     Department of Homeland Security components, the Department of 
     Defense, and other Federal agencies.
       (F) An analysis of the benefits and drawbacks of the Coast 
     Guard conducting missions on behalf of other agencies 
     identified in subparagraph (E), including--
       (i) the budgetary impact of the duties and missions 
     identified in such subparagraph;
       (ii) data on the degree to which the Coast Guard is 
     reimbursed for the costs of such missions; and
       (iii) recommendations to minimize the impact of the 
     missions identified in such subparagraph to the Coast Guard 
     budget, including improving reimbursements and budget 
     autonomy of the Coast Guard.
       (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 Committee on Transportation and 
     Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate 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 considers the implementation of such 
     recommendation feasible and advisable, a description of the 
     actions taken, or to be taken, to implement such 
     recommendation.

     SEC. 184. ANNUAL REPORT ON PROGRESS OF CERTAIN HOMEPORTING 
                   PROJECTS.

       (a) Initial Report.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall issue a report 
     detailing the progress of all approved Coast Guard cutter 
     homeporting projects within Coast Guard District 17 with 
     respect to each of the following:
       (A) Fast Response Cutters.
       (B) Offshore Patrol Cutters.
       (C) The commercially available polar icebreaker procured 
     pursuant to section 11223 of Don Young Coast Guard 
     Authorization Act of 2022 (14 U.S.C. 561 note).
       (2) Elements.--The report required under paragraph (1) 
     shall include, with respect to each homeporting project 
     described in such paragraph, the following:
       (A) A description of--
       (i) the status of funds appropriated for the project;
       (ii) activities carried out toward completion of the 
     project; and
       (iii) activities anticipated to be carried out during the 
     subsequent 1-year period to advance completion of the 
     project.
       (B) An updated timeline, including key milestones, for the 
     project.
       (b) Subsequent Reports.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than July 1 of the first 
     calendar year after the year in which the report required 
     under subsection (a) is submitted, and each July 1 thereafter 
     until the date specified in paragraph (2), the Commandant 
     shall issue an updated report containing, with respect to 
     each Coast Guard cutter homeporting project described in 
     subsection (a)(1) (including any such project approved on a 
     date after the date of the enactment of this Act and before 
     the submission of the applicable report), each element 
     described in subsection (a)(2).
       (2) Date specified.--The date specified in this paragraph 
     is the earlier of--
       (A) July 2, 2031; or
       (B) the date on which all projects described in subsection 
     (a)(1) are completed.
       (c) Report on Capacity of Coast Guard Base Ketchikan.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall complete a report 
     detailing the cost of and time frame for expanding the 
     industrial capacity of Coast Guard Base Ketchikan to do out 
     of water repairs on Fast Response Cutters.
       (2) Report.--Not later than 120 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 the report required under 
     paragraph (1).
       (d) Public Availability.--The Commandant shall publish each 
     report issued under this section on a publicly accessible 
     website of the Coast Guard.
       (e) Homeporting Project Defined.--In this section, the term 
     ``homeporting project''--
       (1) means the facility infrastructure modifications, 
     upgrades, new construction, and real property and land 
     acquisition associated with homeporting new or modified 
     cutters; and
       (2) includes shoreside and waterfront facilities, cutter 
     maintenance facilities, housing, child development 
     facilities, and any other associated infrastructure directly 
     required as a result of homeporting new or modified cutters.

     SEC. 185. REPORT ON BAY CLASS ICEBREAKING TUG FLEET 
                   REPLACEMENT.

       Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives--
       (1) a report that describes the strategy of the Coast Guard 
     with respect to the replacement of the Bay class icebreaking 
     tug fleet;
       (2) in the case of such a strategy that results in the 
     replacement of the last Bay class icebreaking tug on a date 
     that is more than 15 years after such date of enactment, a 
     plan to maintain the operational capabilities of the Bay 
     class icebreaking tug fleet until the date on which such 
     fleet is projected to be replaced; and
       (3) in the case of such a plan that does not include the 
     replacement of the main propulsion engines and marine gear 
     components of the Bay class icebreaking tug fleet, an 
     assessment of the manner in which not replacing such engines 
     and gear components will effect the future operational 
     availability of such fleet.

     SEC. 186. FEASIBILITY STUDY ON SUPPORTING ADDITIONAL PORT 
                   VISITS AND DEPLOYMENTS IN SUPPORT OF OPERATION 
                   BLUE PACIFIC.

       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 when not operating as a service in the Navy, in 
     consultation with the Secretary of Defense, shall--
       (1) complete a study on the feasibility and advisability of 
     supporting additional Coast Guard port visits and deployments 
     in support of Operation Blue Pacific, or any successor 
     operation oriented toward Oceania; and
       (2) submit to the Committee on Armed Services and the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on the findings of such study.

     SEC. 187. STUDY AND GAP ANALYSIS WITH RESPECT TO COAST GUARD 
                   AIR STATION CORPUS CHRISTI AVIATION HANGAR.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall commence a study 
     and gap analysis with respect to the aviation hangar at Coast 
     Guard Air Station Corpus Christi and the capacity of such 
     hangar to accommodate the aircraft currently assigned to 
     Coast Guard Air Station Corpus Christi and any aircraft 
     anticipated to be so assigned in the future.
       (b) Elements.--The study and gap analysis required by 
     subsection (a) shall include the following:
       (1) An identification of hangar infrastructure requirements 
     needed--
       (A) to meet mission requirements for all aircraft currently 
     assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Corpus Christi; and
       (B) to accommodate the assignment of an additional HC-144 
     Ocean Sentry aircraft to Coast Guard Air Station Corpus 
     Christi.
       (2) An assessment as to whether the aviation hangar at 
     Coast Guard Air Station Corpus Christi is sufficient to 
     accommodate all rotary-wing assets assigned to Coast Guard 
     Air Station Corpus Christi.
       (3) In the case of an assessment that such hangar is 
     insufficient to accommodate all such rotary-wing assets, a 
     description of the facility modifications that would be 
     required to do so.
       (4) An assessment of the facility modifications of such 
     hangar that would be required to accommodate all aircraft 
     assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Corpus Christi upon 
     completion of the transition from the MH-65 rotary-wing 
     aircraft to the MH-60T rotary-wing aircraft.
       (5) An evaluation with respect to which fixed-wing assets 
     assigned to Coast Guard Air Station Corpus Christi should be 
     enclosed in such hangar so as to most effectively mitigate 
     the effects of corrosion while meeting mission requirements.
       (6) An evaluation as to whether, and to what extent, the 
     storage of fixed-wing assets outside such hangar would 
     compromise the material condition and safety of such assets.
       (7) An evaluation of the extent to which any material 
     condition and safety issue identified under paragraph (6) may 
     be mitigated through the use of gust locks, chocks, tie-
     downs, or related equipment.
       (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the commencement 
     of the study and gap analysis required under subsection (a), 
     the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on the results of the study and gap 
     analysis.

[[Page S1540]]

  


     SEC. 188. REPORT ON IMPACTS OF JOINT TRAVEL REGULATIONS ON 
                   MEMBERS OF COAST GUARD WHO RELY ON FERRY 
                   SYSTEMS.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant, in coordination with 
     the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, 
     shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a 
     report on the impacts of the Joint Travel Regulations on 
     members of the Coast Guard who are commuting, on permanent 
     change of station travel, or on other official travel to or 
     from locations served by ferry systems.
       (b) Elements.--The report required under subsection (a) 
     shall include an analysis of the impacts on such members of 
     the Coast Guard of the following policies under the Joint 
     Travel Regulations:
       (1) The one-vehicle shipping policy.
       (2) The unavailability of reimbursement of costs incurred 
     by such members due to ferry schedule unavailability, sailing 
     cancellations, and other sailing delays during commuting, 
     permanent change of station travel, or other official travel.
       (3) The unavailability of local infrastructure to support 
     vehicles or goods shipped to duty stations in locations 
     outside the contiguous United States that are not connected 
     by the road system, including locations served by the Alaska 
     Marine Highway System.
       (c) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Appropriate committees of congress.--The term 
     ``appropriate committees of Congress'' means--
       (A) the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate; and
       (B) the Committee on Armed Services and the Subcommittee on 
     Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation of the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives.
       (2) Joint travel regulations.--The term ``Joint Travel 
     Regulations'', with respect to official travel, means the 
     terms, rates, conditions, and regulations maintained under 
     section 464 of title 37, United States Code.

     SEC. 189. REPORT ON JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICERS' TRAINING CORPS 
                   PROGRAM.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a report on the Junior 
     Reserve Officers' Training Corps program.
       (b) Elements.--The report required under subsection (a) 
     shall include the following:
       (1) A description of the standards and criteria prescribed 
     by the Coast Guard for educational institution participation 
     in the Coast Guard Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps 
     program.
       (2) With respect to each educational institution offering a 
     Coast Guard Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program--
       (A) a description of--
       (i) the training and course of military instruction 
     provided to students;
       (ii) the facilities and drill areas used for the program;
       (iii) the type and amount of Coast Guard Junior Reserve 
     Officers' Training Corps program resources provided by the 
     Coast Guard;
       (iv) the type and amount of Coast Guard Junior Reserve 
     Officers' Training Corps program resources provided by the 
     educational institution; and
       (v) any other matter relating to program requirements the 
     Commandant considers appropriate;
       (B) an assessment as to whether the educational institution 
     is located in an educationally and economically deprived area 
     (as described in section 2031 of title 10, United States 
     Code);
       (C) beginning with the year in which the program was 
     established at the educational institution, the number of 
     students who have participated in the program, disaggregated 
     by gender, race, and grade of student participants; and
       (D) an assessment of the participants in the program, 
     including--
       (i) the performance of the participants in the program;
       (ii) the number of participants in the program who express 
     an intent to pursue a commission or enlistment in the Coast 
     Guard; and
       (iii) a description of any other factor or matter 
     considered by the Commandant to be important in assessing the 
     success of program participants at the educational 
     institution.
       (3) With respect to any unit of the Coast Guard Junior 
     Reserve Officers' Training Corps suspended or placed on 
     probation pursuant to section 2031(h) of title 10, United 
     States Code--
       (A) a description of the unit;
       (B) the reason for such suspension or placement on 
     probation;
       (C) the year the unit was so suspended or placed on 
     probation; and
       (D) with respect to any unit that was reinstated after 
     previously being suspended or placed on probation, a 
     justification for the reinstatement of such unit.
       (4) A description of the resources and personnel required 
     to maintain, implement, and provide oversight for the Coast 
     Guard Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program at each 
     participating educational institution and within the Coast 
     Guard, including the funding provided to each such 
     educational institution, disaggregated by educational 
     institution and year.
       (5) A recommendation with respect to--
       (A) whether the number of educational institutions 
     participating in the Coast Guard Junior Reserve Officers' 
     Training Corps program should be increased; and
       (B) in the case of a recommendation that such number should 
     be increased, additional recommendations relating to such an 
     increase, including--
       (i) the number of additional educational institutions that 
     should be included in the program;
       (ii) the locations of such institutions;
       (iii) any additional authorities or resources necessary for 
     such an increase; and
       (iv) any other matter the Commandant considers appropriate.
       (6) Any other matter the Commandant considers necessary in 
     order to provide a full assessment of the effectiveness of 
     the Coast Guard Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps 
     program.

     SEC. 190. REPORT ON AND EXPANSION OF COAST GUARD JUNIOR 
                   RESERVE OFFICERS' TRAINING CORPS PROGRAM.

       (a) Report.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     the enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a report on the status of the 
     Coast Guard Junior Reserve Officers' Training Program.
       (2) Elements.--The report required by paragraph (1) shall 
     include the following:
       (A) A review and timeline of Coast Guard outreach efforts 
     in Coast Guard districts that do not have a Coast Guard 
     Junior Reserve Officers' Training Program.
       (B) A review and timeline of Coast Guard outreach efforts 
     in Coast Guard districts in which there are multiple Coast 
     Guard Junior Reserve Officers' Training Programs.
       (C) Policy recommendations regarding future expansion of 
     the Coast Guard Junior Reserve Officers' Training Program.
       (b) Expansion.--
       (1) In general.--Beginning on December 31, 2026, the 
     Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is 
     operating shall maintain at all times a Junior Reserve 
     Officers' Training Corps Program with not fewer than 20 such 
     programs.
       (2) Cost assessment.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
     of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department 
     in which the Coast Guard is operating shall provide Congress 
     with an estimate of the costs associated with implementing 
     this subsection.

                   TITLE II--SHIPPING AND NAVIGATION

                Subtitle A--Merchant Mariner Credentials

     SEC. 201. MERCHANT MARINER CREDENTIALING.

       (a) Revising Merchant Mariner Deck Training Requirements.--
       (1) General definitions.--Section 2101 of title 46, United 
     States Code, is amended--
       (A) by redesignating paragraphs (20) through (56) as 
     paragraphs (21), (22), (24), (25), (26), (27), (28), (29), 
     (30), (31), (32), (33), (34), (35), (36), (37), (38), (39), 
     (40), (41), (42), (43), (44), (45), (46), (47), (48), (49), 
     (50), (51), (52), (53), (54), (55), (56), (57), and (58), 
     respectively; and
       (B) 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.''; and
       (C) by inserting after paragraph (22), as so redesignated, 
     the following:
       ``(23) `nautical school program' means a program that--
       ``(A) offers a comprehensive program of training that 
     includes substantial sea service on nautical school vessels 
     or merchant vessels of the United States primarily to train 
     individuals for service in the merchant marine; and
       ``(B) is approved by the Secretary for purposes of section 
     7315, in accordance with regulations promulgated by the 
     Secretary.''.
       (2) Examinations.--Section 7116 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended by striking subsection (c).
       (3) Merchant mariners documents.--
       (A) 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) Qualifications.--To qualify for a credential under 
     this section, an applicant shall provide satisfactory proof 
     that the applicant--
       ``(1) is at least 18 years of age;

[[Page S1541]]

       ``(2) has the service required by the applicable section of 
     this part;
       ``(3) is qualified professionally as demonstrated by an 
     applicable examination or educational requirements;
       ``(4) is qualified as to sight, hearing, and physical 
     condition to perform the seafarer's duties; and
       ``(5) has satisfied any additional requirements established 
     by the Secretary, including career patterns and service 
     appropriate to the particular service, industry, or job 
     functions the individual is engaged.''.
       (B) Implementation.--The Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating shall implement the 
     requirements under subsection (c) of section 7306 of title 
     46, United States Code (as amended by 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).
       (C) 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.''.
       (b) General Requirements for Members of Engine 
     Departments.--
       (1) In general.--Section 7313 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended--
       (A) in subsection (b) by striking ``and coal passer''; and
       (B) by striking subsection (c) and inserting the following:
       ``(c) 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.
       ``(d) Qualifications.--To qualify for an credential under 
     this section, an applicant shall provide satisfactory proof 
     that the applicant--
       ``(1) is at least 18 years of age;
       ``(2) has a minimum of 6-months service in the related 
     entry rating;
       ``(3) is qualified professionally as demonstrated by an 
     applicable examination or educational requirements; and
       ``(4) is qualified as to sight, hearing, and physical 
     condition to perform the member's duties.''.
       (2) Repeal.--Section 7314 of title 46, United States Code, 
     and the item relating to such section in the analysis for 
     chapter 73 of such title, are repealed.
       (c) Training.--
       (1) In general.--Section 7315 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended to read as follows:

     ``Sec. 7315. Training

       ``(a) Nautical School Program.--Graduation from a nautical 
     school program may be substituted for the sea service 
     requirements under sections 7307 through 7311a and 7313 of 
     this title.
       ``(b) Other Approved Training Programs.--The satisfactory 
     completion of a training program approved by the Secretary 
     may be substituted for not more than one-half of the sea 
     service requirements under sections 7307 through 7311a and 
     7313 of this title in accordance with subsection (c).
       ``(c) Training Days.--For purposes of subsection (b), 
     training days undertaken in connection with training programs 
     approved by the Secretary may be substituted for days of 
     required sea service under sections 7307 through 7311a and 
     7313 of this title as follows:
       ``(1) Each shore-based training day in the form of 
     classroom lectures may be substituted for 2 days of sea 
     service requirements.
       ``(2) Each training day of laboratory training, practical 
     demonstrations, and other similar training, may be 
     substituted for 4 days of sea service requirements.
       ``(3) Each training day of full mission simulator training 
     may be substituted for 6 days of sea service requirements.
       ``(4) Each training day underway on a vessel while enrolled 
     in an approved training program may be substituted for 1\1/2\ 
     days of sea service requirements, as long as--
       ``(A) the structured training provided while underway on a 
     vessel is--
       ``(i) acceptable to the Secretary as part of the approved 
     training program; and
       ``(ii) fully completed by the individual; and
       ``(B) the tonnage of such vessel is appropriate to the 
     endorsement being sought.
       ``(d) Definition.--In this section, the term `training day' 
     means a day that consists of not less than 7 hours of 
     training.''.
       (2) Implementation.--The Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating shall implement the 
     requirements of section 7315 of title 46, United States Code, 
     as amended by this subsection, 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) and 14094 (88 Fed. Reg. 
     21879).
       (3) Technical and conforming amendments.--
       (A) Title 46.--Title 46, United States Code, is amended--
       (i) in section 2113(3) by striking ``section 2101(53)(A)'' 
     and inserting ``section 2101(55)(A)'';
       (ii) in section 3202(a)(1)(A) by striking ``section 
     2101(29)(A)'' and inserting ``section 2101(31)(A)'';
       (iii) in section 3507(k)(1) by striking ``section 
     2101(31)'' and inserting ``section 2101(33)'';
       (iv) in section 4105(d) by striking ``section 2101(53)(A)'' 
     and inserting ``section 2101(55)(A)'';
       (v) in section 12119(a)(3) by striking ``section 2101(26)'' 
     and inserting ``section 2101(28)''; and
       (vi) in section 51706(c)(6)(C)(ii) by striking ``section 
     2101(24)'' and inserting ``section 2101(26)''.
       (B) Other laws.--
       (i) Section 3(3) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery 
     Conservation and Management Act (16 U.S.C. 1802(3)) is 
     amended by striking ``2101(30) of title 46'' and inserting 
     ``2101 of title 46''.
       (ii) Section 1992(d)(7) of title 18, United States Code, is 
     amended by striking ``section 2101(31) of title 46'' and 
     inserting ``section 2101 of title 46''.
       (iii) Section 311(a)(26)(D) of the Federal Water Pollution 
     Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321(a)(26)(D)) is amended by striking 
     ``section 2101(23)'' and inserting ``section 2101''.
       (iv) Section 1101 of title 49, United States Code, is 
     amended by striking ``Section 2101(23)'' and inserting 
     ``Section 2101(24)''.
       (d) Amendments.--
       (1) Merchant mariner credentials.--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''.
       (2) Able seafarers--unlimited.--
       (A) In general.--The section heading for section 7307 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers''.
       (B) Reduction of length of certain period of service.--
     Section 7307 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by 
     striking ``3 years'' and inserting ``18 months''.
       (C) 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''.
       (3) Able seamen--limited.--
       (A) In general.--The section heading for section 7308 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers''.
       (B) Reduction of length of certain period of service.--
     Section 7308 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by 
     striking ``18 months'' and inserting ``12 months''.
       (C) 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''.
       (4) Able seafarers--special.--
       (A) In general.--The section heading for section 7309 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers''.
       (B) Reduction of length of certain period of service.--
     Section 7309 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by 
     striking ``12 months'' and inserting ``6 months''.
       (C) 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''.
       (5) Able seafarers--offshore supply vessels.--
       (A) In general.--The section heading for section 7310 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers''.
       (B) 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''.
       (6) Able seafarers--sail.--
       (A) In general.--The section heading for section 7311 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers''.
       (B) 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''.
       (7) Able seamen--fishing industry.--
       (A) In general.--The section heading for section 7311a of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 
     ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers''.
       (B) 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''.
       (8) Parts e and f.--Parts E and F of subtitle II of title 
     46, United States Code, is amended--
       (A) by striking ``seaman'' and inserting ``seafarer'' each 
     place it appears; and
       (B) by striking ``seamen'' and inserting ``seafarers'' each 
     place it appears.
       (9) Clerical amendments.--The analysis for subtitle II of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended in the item relating 
     to part E by striking ``merchant seamen licenses, 
     certificates, and documents'' and inserting ``merchant 
     mariner credentials''.
       (10) 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.
       (11) Merchant mariner credentials.--Section 7510 of title 
     46, United States Code, is amended by striking subsection 
     (d).
       (e) Renewal of Merchant Mariner Licenses and Documents.--
     Section 7507 of

[[Page S1542]]

     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.''.
       (f) Merchant Seamen Licenses, Certificates, and Documents; 
     Manning of Vessels.--
       (1) Citizenship or noncitizen nationality.--
       (A) In general.--Section 7102 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended--
       (i) in the section heading by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     nationality'' after ``Citizenship''; and
       (ii) 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''.
       (B) 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.''.
       (2) Citizenship or noncitizen nationality notation on 
     merchant mariners' documents.--
       (A) In general.--Section 7304 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended--
       (i) in the section heading by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     nationality'' after ``Citizenship''; and
       (ii) 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''.
       (B) 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 notation on merchant 
              mariners' documents.''.
       (3) Citizenship or noncitizen nationality.--
       (A) In general.--Section 8103 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended--
       (i) in the section heading by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     nationality'' after ``Citizenship'';
       (ii) in subsection (a) by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     national'' after ``citizen'';
       (iii) 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'';

       (iv) in subsection (c) by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     nationals'' after ``citizens'';
       (v) 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;

       (vi) in subsection (e) by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     national'' after ``citizen'' each place it appears;
       (vii) in subsection (i)(1)(A) by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     national'' after ``citizen'';
       (viii) in subsection (k)(1)(A) by inserting ``or noncitizen 
     national'' after ``citizen''; and
       (ix) 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).''.
       (B) 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.''.
       (4) 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''.
       (5) 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''.

     SEC. 202. 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. 203. MERCHANT MARINER LICENSING AND DOCUMENTATION SYSTEM 
                   REQUIREMENTS.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 75 of title 46, United States 
     Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

     ``Sec. 7512. Requirements of electronic merchant mariner 
       credentialing system

       ``(a) Definition of Merchant Mariner Credential.--In this 
     section, the term `merchant mariner credential' means a 
     merchant mariner license, certificate, or document that the 
     Secretary is authorized to issue pursuant to this title.
       ``(b) Necessary Considerations.--In implementing any 
     electronic merchant mariner credentialing system for purposes 
     of this chapter, the Secretary shall consider how to allow, 
     to the maximum extent practicable--
       ``(1) the electronic submission of the components of 
     merchant mariner credential applications (such as sea service 
     documentation, professional qualifications, course completion 
     certificates, safety and suitability documents, and medical 
     records) and course approval requests;
       ``(2) the direct electronic and secure submission of--
       ``(A) sea service verification documentation from 
     employers;
       ``(B) course completion certificates from training 
     providers; and
       ``(C) necessary documentation from other stakeholders; and
       ``(3) the electronic processing and evaluation of 
     information for the issuance of merchant mariner credentials 
     and course approvals, including the capability for the 
     Secretary to complete remote evaluation of information 
     submitted through the system.
       ``(c) Access to Data.--The Secretary shall ensure that the 
     Maritime Administration and other Federal agencies, as 
     authorized by the Secretary, have access to anonymized and 
     aggregated data from the electronic system described in 
     subsection (b) and that such data include, at a minimum--
       ``(1) the total amount of sea service for individuals with 
     a valid merchant mariner credential;
       ``(2) the number of mariners with valid merchant mariner 
     credentials for each rating, including the capability to 
     filter data based on credential endorsements;
       ``(3) demographic information including age, gender, and 
     region or address;
       ``(4) the estimated times for the Coast Guard to process 
     merchant mariner credential applications, mariner medical 
     certificates, and course approvals;
       ``(5) the number of providers approved to provide training 
     for purposes of this part and, for each such training 
     provider, the number of classes taken by individuals with, or 
     applying for, a merchant mariner credential; and
       ``(6) if applicable, the branch of the uniformed services 
     (as defined in section 101(a) of title 10) and duty status of 
     applicants for a merchant mariner credential.
       ``(d) Privacy Requirements.--The Secretary shall collect 
     the information required under subsection (b) in a manner 
     that protects the privacy rights of individuals who are the 
     subjects of such information.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 75 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

``7512. Requirements of electronic merchant mariner credentialing 
              system.''.

                       Subtitle B--Vessel Safety

     SEC. 211. 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. 212. 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. 213. STUDY OF AMPHIBIOUS VESSELS.

       (a) In General.--The Commandant shall conduct a study to 
     determine the applicability of current safety regulations 
     that apply to commercial amphibious vessels.
       (b) Elements.--The study required under subsection (a) 
     shall include the following:
       (1) An overview and analysis that identifies safety 
     regulations that apply to commercial amphibious vessels;
       (2) An evaluation of whether safety gaps and risks exist 
     associated with the application of regulations identified in 
     subsection (b)(1) to the operation of commercial amphibious 
     vessels;
       (3) An evaluation of whether aspects of the regulations 
     established in section 11502 of the James M. Inhofe National 
     Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (46 U.S.C. 
     3306 note) should apply to amphibious commercial vessels; and
       (4) Recommendations on whether potential regulations that 
     should apply to commercial amphibious vessels.
       (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the

[[Page S1543]]

     House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report containing 
     the findings, conclusions, and recommendations from the study 
     required under subsection (a).
       (d) Definition of Amphibious Vessel.--In this section, the 
     term ``amphibious vessel'' means a vessel which is operating 
     as a small passenger vessel in waters subject to the 
     jurisdiction of the United States, as defined in section 2.38 
     of title 33, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor 
     regulation) and is operating as a motor vehicle as defined in 
     section 216 of the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7550) that is not 
     a DUKW amphibious passenger vessel as defined in section 
     11502 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization 
     Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (46 U.S.C. 3306 note).

     SEC. 214. PERFORMANCE DRIVEN EXAMINATION SCHEDULE.

       (a) Amendments.--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) Performance-driven Examination Schedule.--
       ``(1) In general.--With respect to examinations of foreign 
     vessels to which this chapter applies, and subject to 
     paragraph (3), the Secretary may adopt a performance-driven 
     examination schedule to which such vessels are to be examined 
     and the frequency with which such examinations occur, 
     including the frequency of examinations for each vessel. Such 
     schedule shall be consistent with the Secretary's assessment 
     of the safety performance of such vessels, including each 
     vessel participating in the performance-driven examination 
     schedule, in accordance with paragraph (2).
       ``(2) Considerations.--In developing an examination 
     schedule under paragraph (1) and subject to paragraph (3), 
     with respect to each vessel in determining eligibility to 
     participate in the performance based examination schedule--
       ``(A) the Secretary shall consider--
       ``(i) certificate of compliance and examination history, to 
     include those conducted by foreign countries;
       ``(ii) history of violations, vessel detentions, incidents, 
     and casualties;
       ``(iii) history of notices of violation issued by the Coast 
     Guard;
       ``(iv) safety related information provided by the flag 
     state of the vessel;
       ``(v) owner and operator history;
       ``(vi) historical classification society data, which may 
     include relevant surveys;
       ``(vii) cargo-specific documentation;
       ``(viii) data from port state control safety exams; and
       ``(ix) relevant repair and maintenance history; and
       ``(B) the Secretary may consider--
       ``(i) data from relevant vessel quality assurance and risk 
     assessment programs including Quality Shipping for the 21st 
     Century (QUALSHIP 21);
       ``(ii) data from industry inspection regimes;
       ``(iii) data from vessel self assessments submitted to the 
     International Maritime Organization or other maritime 
     organizations; and
       ``(iv) other safety relevant data or information as 
     determined by the Secretary.
       ``(3) Eligibility.--In developing an examination schedule 
     under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall not consider a 
     vessel eligible to take part in a performance-driven 
     examination schedule under paragraph (1) if, within the last 
     36 months, the vessel has--
       ``(A) been detained by the Coast Guard;
       ``(B) a record of a violation issued by the Coast Guard 
     against the owners or operators with a finding of proved; or
       ``(C) suffered a marine casualty that, as determined by the 
     Secretary, involves the safe operation of the vessel and 
     overall performance of the vessel.
       ``(4) Restrictions.--The Secretary may not adopt a 
     performance-driven examination schedule under paragraph (1) 
     until the Secretary has--
       ``(A) conducted the assessment recommended in the 
     Government Accountability Office report submitted under 
     section 8254(a) of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National 
     Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 
     116-283);
       ``(B) concluded through such assessment that a performance-
     driven examination schedule provides not less than the level 
     of safety provided by the annual examinations required under 
     subsection (a)(1); and
       ``(C) provided the results of such assessment to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives.''.
       (b) Career Incentive Pay for Marine Inspectors.--Subsection 
     (a) of section 11237 of the James M. Inhofe National Defense 
     Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 (Public Law 117-263) 
     is amended as follows:
       ``(a) Authority to Provide Assignment Pay or Special Duty 
     Pay.--For the purposes of addressing an identified shortage 
     of marine inspectors, the Secretary may provide assignment 
     pay or special duty pay under section 352 of title 37, United 
     States Code, to a member of the Coast Guard serving in a 
     prevention position that--
       ``(1) is assigned in support of or is serving as a marine 
     inspector pursuant to section 312 of title 14, United States 
     Code; and
       ``(2) is assigned to a billet that is difficult to fill due 
     to geographic location, requisite experience or 
     certifications, or lack of sufficient candidates, as 
     determined by the Commandant, in an effort to address 
     inspector workforce gaps.''.
       (c) Briefing.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, and annually for 2 years after the 
     implementation of a performance-driven examination schedule 
     program under section 3714(c) of title 46, United States 
     Code, the Commandant shall brief the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives on--
       (1) the status of utilizing the performance-driven 
     examination schedule program, including the quantity of 
     examinations conducted and duration between examinations for 
     each individual vessel examined under the performance-driven 
     examination schedule;
       (2) an overview of the size of the Coast Guard marine 
     inspector workforce, including any personnel shortages 
     assessed by the Coast Guard, for inspectors that conduct 
     inspections under section 3714 of such title; and
       (3) recommendations for the inspection, governance, or 
     oversight of vessels inspected under section 3714 of such 
     title.

     SEC. 215. 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. 216. STUDY ON BERING STRAIT VESSEL TRAFFIC PROJECTIONS 
                   AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE POSTURE AT PORTS OF THE 
                   UNITED STATES.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation, 
     acting through the United States Committee on the Marine 
     Transportation System, and in coordination with the 
     Commandant, shall--
       (1) complete an analysis regarding commercial vessel 
     traffic, at the time of the study, that transits through the 
     Bering Strait and projections for the growth of such traffic 
     over the next decade; and
       (2) assess the adequacy of emergency response capabilities 
     and infrastructure at the ports of the United States that are 
     in proximity to the vessel traffic that transits the Bering 
     Strait, including the port facilities at Point Spencer, 
     Alaska, Nome, Alaska, and Kotzebue, Alaska, to--
       (A) address future navigation safety risks; and
       (B) conduct emergency maritime response operations in the 
     Arctic environment.
       (b) Elements.--The study under this section shall include 
     the following:
       (1) An analysis of the volume and types of commercial 
     vessel traffic, including--
       (A) oil and gas tankers, cargo vessels, barges, fishing 
     vessels, and cruise lines, both domestic and international;
       (B) projected growth of such traffic through the Bering 
     Strait;
       (C) the seasonality of vessel transits of the Bering 
     Strait; and
       (D) a summation of the sizes, ages, and the country of 
     registration or documentation of such vessels transiting the 
     Arctic, including oil and product tankers either documented 
     in transit to or from Russia or China or 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 and its 
     southern and northern approaches in the Chukchi Sea and the 
     Bering Sea.
       (3) A risk assessment of the projected growth in commercial 
     vessel traffic in the Bering Strait and potential 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 vessel traffic in Western 
     Alaska, including the Bering Strait.
       (4) An evaluation of the extent to which Point Spencer can 
     serve as a port of refuge

[[Page S1544]]

     and as a staging, logistics, and operations center from which 
     to conduct and support maritime emergency and spill response 
     activities.
       (5) Recommendations for practical actions that can be taken 
     by 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 identified in the study carried out under this 
     section.
       (c) Consultation.--In the preparation of the study under 
     this section, the United States Committee on the Marine 
     Transportation System shall consult with--
       (1) the Maritime Administration;
       (2) the Coast Guard;
       (3) the Army Corps of Engineers;
       (4) the Department of State;
       (5) the National Transportation Safety Board;
       (6) the Government of Canada, as appropriate;
       (7) the Port Coordination Council for the Port of Point 
     Spencer;
       (8) State and local governments;
       (9) other maritime industry participants, including 
     carriers, shippers, ports, labor, fishing, or other entities; 
     and
       (10) nongovernmental entities with relevant expertise 
     monitoring and characterizing vessel traffic or the 
     environment in the Arctic.
       (d) Tribal Consultation.--In addition to the entities 
     described in subsection (c), in preparing the study under 
     this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall consult 
     with Indian Tribes, including Alaska Native Corporations, and 
     Alaska Native communities.
       (e) Report.--Not later than 1 year after initiating the 
     study under this section, the United States Committee on the 
     Marine Transportation System shall submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on 
     Foreign Relations of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on 
     Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives a report on 
     the findings and recommendations of the study.
       (f) 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 Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2015 (Public 
     Law 114-120).

     SEC. 217. 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. 218. 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. 219. AUTHORITY TO ESTABLISH SAFETY ZONES FOR SPECIAL 
                   ACTIVITIES IN EXCLUSIVE ECONOMIC ZONE.

       (a) Special Activities in Exclusive Economic Zone.--
     Subchapter I of chapter 700 of title 46, United States Code, 
     is amended by adding at the end the following:

     ``Sec. 70008. 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.
       ``(3) United states citizen.--The term `United States 
     citizen' has the meaning given the term `eligible owners' in 
     section 12103.
       ``(4) Fixed platform.--The term `fixed platform' means an 
     artificial island, installation, or structure permanently 
     attached to the sea-bed for the purpose of exploration or 
     exploitation of resources or for other economic purposes.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 700 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 70007 the following:

``70008. Special activities in exclusive economic zone.''.
       (c) Repeal.--Section 8343 of the William M. (Mac) 
     Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 
     2021 (Public Law 116-283) is repealed.
       (d) Retroactive Effective Date.--The amendments made by 
     subsections (a) and (b) of this section shall take effect as 
     if enacted on February 1, 2024.

     SEC. 220. 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 for the subsequent 3 
     years, 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. 221. DESIGNATING PILOTAGE WATERS FOR THE STRAITS OF 
                   MACKINAC.

       (a) In General.--Section 9302(a)(1)(A) of title 46, United 
     States Code, is amended by striking ``in waters'' and 
     inserting ``in the Straits of Mackinac and in all other 
     waters''.
       (b) Definition of the Straits of Mackinac.--Section 9302 of 
     title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end 
     the following:
       ``(g) Definition of the Straits of Mackinac.--In this 
     section, the term `Straits of Mackinac' includes all of the 
     United States navigable waters bounded by longitudes 84 
     degrees 20 minutes west and 85 degrees 10 minutes west and 
     latitudes 45 degrees 39 minutes north and 45 degrees 54 
     minutes north, including Gray's Reef Passage, the South 
     Channel, and Round Island Passage, and approaches thereto.''.

     SEC. 222. RECEIPTS; INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS FOR ICE PATROL 
                   SERVICES.

       Section 80301(c) of title 46, United States Code, is 
     amended by striking the period at the end and inserting ``and 
     shall remain available until expended for the purpose of the 
     Coast Guard international ice patrol program under this 
     chapter.''.

     SEC. 223. REQUIREMENTS FOR CERTAIN FISHING VESSELS AND FISH 
                   TENDER VESSELS.

       (a) Exceptions to Regulations for Towing Vessels.--
       (1) In general.--The Secretary of the department in which 
     the Coast Guard is operating, acting through the relevant 
     Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection, may grant temporary 
     waivers from the towing vessel requirements of chapters 33 
     and 89 of title 46, United States Code, including the 
     regulations issued under such chapters, for fishing vessels 
     and fish tender vessels.
       (2) Application.--A temporary waiver issued under paragraph 
     (1) shall be issued at the discretion of the relevant Officer 
     in Charge, Marine Inspection, to a fishing vessel or fish 
     tender vessel that--
       (A) performs towing operations of net pens, and associated 
     work platforms, to or from aquaculture or hatchery worksites;
       (B) is less than 200 gross tons;
       (C) does not tow a net pen, or associated work platform, 
     that is carrying cargo or hazardous material, including oil, 
     on board;
       (D) is operating shoreward of the Boundary Line in either--

[[Page S1545]]

       (i) Southeast Alaska; or
       (ii) Prince William Sound; and
       (E) complies with all applicable laws for its use in the 
     usual purpose for which it is normally and substantially 
     operated, including any applicable inspection requirements 
     under section 3301 of title 46, United States Code, and 
     exemptions under section 3302 of such title.
       (3) Implementation.--
       (A) Request process.--The owner or operator of a fishing 
     vessel or fish tender vessel seeking a waiver under paragraph 
     (1) shall submit a request to the relevant Officer in Charge, 
     Marine Inspection.
       (B) Contents.--The request submitted under subparagraph (A) 
     shall include--
       (i) a description of the intended towing operations;
       (ii) the time periods and frequency of the intended towing 
     operations;
       (iii) the location of the intended operations;
       (iv) a description of the manning of the fishing vessel or 
     fish tender vessel during the intended operations; and
       (v) any additional safety, operational, or other relevant 
     information requested by the relevant Officer in Charge, 
     Marine Inspection.
       (4) Policy.--The Secretary of the department in which the 
     Coast Guard is operating may issue policy to facilitate the 
     implementation of this subsection.
       (5) Definitions.--In this subsection:
       (A) Boundary line.--The term ``Boundary Line'' has the 
     meaning given such term in section 103 of title 46, United 
     States Code.
       (B) Fishing vessel.--The term ``fishing vessel'' has the 
     meaning given such term in section 2101 of title 46, United 
     States Code.
       (C) Fish tender vessel.--The term ``fish tender vessel'' 
     has the meaning given such term in section 2101 of title 46, 
     United States Code.
       (D) Officer in charge, marine inspection.--The term 
     ``Officer in Charge, Marine Inspection'' has the meaning 
     given such term in section 3305 of title 46, United States 
     Code.
       (E) Prince william sound.--The term ``Prince William 
     Sound'' means all State and Federal waters within Prince 
     William Sound, Alaska, including the approach to Hinchenbrook 
     Entrance out to, and encompassing, Seal Rocks.
       (F) Southeast alaska.--The term ``Southeast Alaska'' means 
     the area along the coast of the State of Alaska from latitude 
     5440'00'' N to 6018'24'' N.
       (6) Sunset.--The authorities under this section shall 
     expire on January 1, 2027.
       (b) Load Lines.--Section 11325(a) of the James M. Inhofe 
     National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 
     (Public Law 117-263; 136 Stat. 4095) is amended by striking 
     ``3'' and inserting ``5''.

             Subtitle C--Matters Involving Uncrewed Systems

     SEC. 231. 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 15 
     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 
     uncrewed 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. 232. PILOT PROGRAM FOR GOVERNANCE AND OVERSIGHT OF SMALL 
                   UNCREWED MARITIME SYSTEMS.

       (a) Limitation.--Notwithstanding any other provision of 
     law, for the period beginning on the date of enactment of 
     this Act and ending on the date that is 2 years after such 
     date of enactment, small uncrewed maritime systems owned, 
     operated, or chartered by the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration, or that are performing specified 
     oceanographic surveys on behalf of and pursuant to a contract 
     or other written agreement with the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration, shall not be subject to any 
     vessel inspection, design, operations, navigation, 
     credentialing, or training requirement, law, or regulation, 
     that the Assistant Administrator of the Office of Marine and 
     Aviation Operations of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration determines will harm real-time operational 
     extreme weather oceanographic and atmospheric data collection 
     and predictions.
       (b) Other Authority.--Nothing in this section shall limit 
     the authority of the Secretary of the department in which the 
     Coast Guard is operating, acting through the Commandant, if 
     there is an immediate safety or security concern regarding 
     small uncrewed maritime systems.

     SEC. 233. COAST GUARD TRAINING COURSE.

       (a) In General.--For the period beginning on the date of 
     enactment of this Act and ending on the date that is 3 years 
     after such date of enactment, the Commandant, or such other 
     individual or organization as the Commandant considers 
     appropriate, shall develop a training course on small 
     uncrewed maritime systems and offer such training course at 
     least once each year for Coast Guard personnel working with 
     or regulating small uncrewed maritime systems.
       (b) Course Subject Matter.--The training course developed 
     under subsection (a) shall--
       (1) provide an overview and introduction to small uncrewed 
     maritime systems, including examples of those used by the 
     Federal Government, in academic settings, and in commercial 
     sectors;
       (2) address the benefits and disadvantages of use of small 
     uncrewed maritime systems;
       (3) address safe navigation of small uncrewed maritime 
     systems, including measures to ensure collision avoidance;
       (4) address the ability of small uncrewed maritime systems 
     to communicate with and alert other vessels in the vicinity;
       (5) address the ability of small uncrewed maritime systems 
     to respond to system alarms and failures to ensure control 
     commensurate with the risk posed by the systems;
       (6) provide present and future capabilities of small 
     uncrewed maritime systems; and
       (7) provide an overview of the role of the International 
     Maritime Organization in the governance of small uncrewed 
     maritime systems.

     SEC. 234. NOAA MEMBERSHIP ON AUTONOMOUS VESSEL POLICY 
                   COUNCIL.

       Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this 
     Act, the Commandant, with the concurrence of the Assistant 
     Administrator of the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations 
     of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, shall 
     establish the permanent membership of a National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration employee to the Automated and 
     Autonomous Vessel Policy Council of the Coast Guard.

     SEC. 235. TECHNOLOGY PILOT PROGRAM.

       Section 319(b)(1) of title 14, United States Code, is 
     amended by striking ``2 or more existing Coast Guard small 
     boats deployed at operational units'' and inserting ``2 or 
     more Coast Guard small boats deployed at operational units 
     and 2 or more existing Coast Guard small boats''.

     SEC. 236. UNCREWED SYSTEMS CAPABILITIES REPORT AND BRIEFING.

       (a) In General.--
       (1) 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 report that outlines a 
     plan for establishing an uncrewed systems capabilities office 
     within the Coast Guard responsible for the acquisition and 
     development of uncrewed system and counter-uncrewed system 
     technologies and to expand the capabilities of the Coast 
     Guard with respect to such technologies.
       (2) Contents.--The report required under paragraph (1) 
     shall include the following:
       (A) A management strategy for the acquisition, development, 
     and deployment of uncrewed system and counter-uncrewed system 
     technologies.
       (B) A service-wide coordination strategy to synchronize and 
     integrate efforts across the Coast Guard in order to--
       (i) support the primary duties of the Coast Guard pursuant 
     to section 102 of title 14, United States Code; and
       (ii) pursue expanded research, development, testing, and 
     evaluation opportunities and funding to expand and accelerate 
     identification and transition of uncrewed system and counter-
     uncrewed system technologies.
       (C) The identification of contracting and acquisition 
     authorities needed to expedite the development and deployment 
     of uncrewed system and counter-uncrewed system technologies.
       (D) A detailed list of commercially available uncrewed 
     system and counter-uncrewed

[[Page S1546]]

     system technologies with capabilities determined to be useful 
     for the Coast Guard.
       (E) A cross-agency collaboration plan to engage with the 
     Department of Defense and other relevant agencies to identify 
     common requirements and opportunities to partner in 
     acquiring, contracting, and sustaining uncrewed system and 
     counter-uncrewed system capabilities.
       (F) Opportunities to obtain and share uncrewed system data 
     from government and commercial sources to improve maritime 
     domain awareness.
       (G) The development of a concept of operations for a data 
     system that supports and integrates uncrewed system and 
     counter-uncrewed 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.
       (b) Briefings.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for a period 
     of 3 years, the Commandant, in coordination with the 
     Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration, the Executive Director of the Office of Naval 
     Research, the Director of the National Science Foundation, 
     and the Director of the White House Office of Science and 
     Technology Policy, shall brief the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives, on the future operation and governance of 
     small uncrewed maritime systems.

     SEC. 237. DEFINITIONS.

       In this subtitle:
       (1) Counter-uncrewed system.--The term ``counter-uncrewed 
     system'' means a system or device capable of lawfully and 
     safely disabling, disrupting, or seizing control of an 
     uncrewed system, including a counter-UAS system (as such term 
     is defined in section 44801 of title 49, United States Code).
       (2) Small uncrewed maritime systems.--The term ``small 
     uncrewed maritime systems'' means unmanned maritime systems 
     (as defined in section 2 of the CENOTE Act of 2018 (33 U.S.C. 
     4101)), that--
       (A) are not greater than 35 feet overall in length;
       (B) are operated remotely or autonomously; and
       (C) exclusively perform oceanographic surveys or scientific 
     research.
       (3) Uncrewed system.--The term ``uncrewed system'' means an 
     uncrewed surface, undersea, or aircraft and associated 
     elements (including communication links and the components 
     that control the uncrewed 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).

                       Subtitle D--Other Matters

     SEC. 241. 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'' and inserting ``An'';
       (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;'';
       (3) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``on board a covered 
     vessel'' before the semicolon; and
       (4) in paragraph (3) by inserting ``while on board a 
     covered vessel'' after ``such individual''.

     SEC. 242. 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.

       ``Unless otherwise prohibited by law, the Commandant of the 
     Coast Guard shall, upon request by any State, the District of 
     Columbia, any Indian Tribe, or any territory of the United 
     States, provide all data possessed by the Coast Guard 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, as in 
     effect on the date of enactment of the Coast Guard 
     Authorization Act of 2025 pertaining to--
       ``(1) challenge water (as defined in section 162.060-3 of 
     title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the 
     date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025) quality characteristics;
       ``(2) post-treatment water quality characteristics;
       ``(3) challenge water (as defined in section 162.060-3 of 
     title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the 
     date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025) biologic organism concentrations data; and
       ``(4) post-treatment water biologic organism concentrations 
     data.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents for 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. 243. CLARIFICATION OF AUTHORITIES.

       (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 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) NEPA Compliance.--Section 5 of the Deepwater Port Act 
     of 1974 (33 U.S.C. 1504) is amended by striking subsection 
     (f) and inserting the following:
       ``(f) NEPA Compliance.--
       ``(1) Definition of lead agency.--In this subsection, the 
     term `lead agency' has the meaning given the term in section 
     111 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
     U.S.C. 4336e).
       ``(2) Lead agency.--
       ``(A) In general.--For all applications, the Maritime 
     Administration shall be the Federal lead agency for purposes 
     of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
     4321 et seq.).
       ``(B) Effect of compliance.--Compliance with the National 
     Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) in 
     accordance with subparagraph (A) shall fulfill the 
     requirement of the Federal lead agency in carrying out the 
     responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act 
     of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) pursuant to this Act.''.
       (c) Regulations.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 18 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 design, 
     construction, equipment, and operation of deepwater ports and 
     navigational safety.
       (3) Updates to authority.--As soon as practicable after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of 
     Transportation 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.) or any other law.
       (e) Applications.--Nothing in this section, or the 
     amendments made by this section, shall apply to any 
     application submitted before the date of enactment of this 
     Act.

     SEC. 244. ANCHORAGES.

       Section 8437 of the William M. (Mac) Thornberry National 
     Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 (Public Law 
     116-283) is amended--
       (1) by striking subsections (d) and (e);
       (2) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d); and
       (3) by inserting after subsection (b) the following:
       ``(c) Prohibition.--The Commandant shall prohibit any 
     vessel anchoring on the reach of the Hudson River described 
     in subsection (a) unless such anchoring is within any 
     anchorage established before January 1, 2021.''.

     SEC. 245. AMENDMENTS TO PASSENGER VESSEL SECURITY AND SAFETY 
                   REQUIREMENTS.

       (a) Maintenance of Supplies That Prevent Sexually 
     Transmitted Diseases.--Section 3507(d)(1) of title 46, United 
     States Code, is amended by inserting ``(taking into 
     consideration the length of the voyage and the number of 
     passengers and crewmembers that the vessel can accommodate)'' 
     after ``a sexual assault''.
       (b) Crew Access to Passenger Staterooms; Procedures and 
     Restrictions.--Section 3507 of title 46, United States Code, 
     is amended--
       (1) in subsection (f)--
       (A) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) in subparagraph (A) by striking ``and'' at the end; and
       (ii) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:
       ``(C) a system that electronically records the date, time, 
     and identity of each crew member accessing each passenger 
     stateroom; and''; and
       (B) by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
       ``(2) ensure that the procedures and restrictions are--
       ``(A) fully and properly implemented;
       ``(B) reviewed annually; and
       ``(C) updated as necessary.''.

     SEC. 246. CYBER-INCIDENT TRAINING.

       Section 70103(c) of title 46, United States Code, is 
     amended by adding at the end the following:
       ``(9) The Secretary may conduct no-notice exercises in 
     Captain of the Port Zones (as described in part 3 of title 
     33, Code of Federal Regulations as in effect on the date of 
     enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025) 
     involving a facility or vessel required to maintain a 
     security plan under this subsection.''.

     SEC. 247. EXTENSION OF PILOT PROGRAM TO ESTABLISH A CETACEAN 
                   DESK FOR PUGET SOUND REGION.

       Section 11304(a)(2)(A)(i) of the Don Young Coast Guard 
     Reauthorization Act of 2022 (division K of Public Law 117-
     263; 16 U.S.C. 1390 note) is amended by striking ``4 years'' 
     and inserting ``6 years''.

[[Page S1547]]

  


     SEC. 248. SUSPENSION OF ENFORCEMENT OF USE OF DEVICES 
                   BROADCASTING ON AIS FOR PURPOSES OF MARKING 
                   FISHING GEAR.

       Section 11320 of the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization 
     Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-263; 136 Stat. 4092) is amended 
     by striking ``during the period'' and all that follows 
     through the period at the end and inserting ``until December 
     31, 2029.''.

     SEC. 249. 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. 250. 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).
       ``(4) Native hawaiian organization.--The term `Native 
     Hawaiian organization' has the meaning given such term in 
     section 6207 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 
     1965 (20 U.S.C. 7517) except the term includes the Department 
     of Hawaiian Home Lands and the Office of Hawaiian Affairs.

     ``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).
       ``(3) Limitation.--The Commandant shall not assess a 
     penalty if the Commandant determines the vessel was abandoned 
     due to major extenuating circumstances of the owner or 
     operator of the vessel, including long term medical 
     incapacitation of the owner or operator.
       ``(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;
       ``(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; or
       ``(4) the Commandant determines that such an abandonment 
     determination would not be in the public interest.

     ``Sec. 4712. Inventory of abandoned vessels

       ``(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, 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, Native Hawaiian organization, 
     or person may report a covered vessel that may be abandoned 
     to the Commandant for potential inclusion in the inventory 
     established under subsection (a);
       ``(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.
       ``(e) Clarification.--Except in a response action carried 
     out under section 311(j) of the Federal Water Pollution 
     Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321) or in the case of imminent 
     threat to life and safety, the Commandant shall not be 
     responsible for removing any covered vessels listed on the 
     inventory established and maintained under subsection (a).''.
       (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--non-barge vessels

``4710. Definitions.
``4711. Abandonment of vessels prohibited.
``4712. Inventory of abandoned vessels.''.

                   TITLE III--OIL POLLUTION RESPONSE

     SEC. 301. SALVAGE AND MARINE FIREFIGHTING RESPONSE 
                   CAPABILITY.

       (a) Salvage and Marine Firefighting Response Capability.--
     Section 311(j) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 
     U.S.C. 1321(j)) is amended by adding at the end the 
     following:
       ``(10) Salvage and marine firefighting response 
     capability.--
       ``(A) In general.--The President, acting through the 
     Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is 
     operating unless otherwise delegated by the President, may 
     require--
       ``(i) periodic inspection of vessels and salvage equipment, 
     firefighting equipment, and other major marine casualty 
     response equipment on or associated with vessels;
       ``(ii) periodic verification of capabilities to 
     appropriately, and in a timely manner, respond to a marine 
     casualty, 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 marine casualty response 
     capabilities, as determined appropriate by the President; and

       ``(iii) carrying of appropriate response equipment for 
     responding to a marine casualty that employs the best 
     technology economically feasible and that is compatible with 
     the safe operation of the vessel.
       ``(B) Definitions.--In this paragraph:
       ``(i) Marine casualty.--The term `marine casualty' means a 
     marine casualty that is required to be reported pursuant to 
     paragraph (3), (4), or (5) of section 6101 of title 46, 
     United States Code.
       ``(ii) Salvage equipment.--The term `salvage equipment' 
     means any equipment that is capable of being used to assist a 
     vessel in

[[Page S1548]]

     potential or actual danger in order to prevent loss of life, 
     damage or destruction of the vessel or its cargo, or release 
     of its contents into the marine environment.''.
       (b) Report to Congress.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 270 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--
       (A) the state of marine firefighting authorities, 
     jurisdiction, and plan review; and
       (B) other considerations with respect to fires at 
     waterfront facilities (including vessel fires) and vessel 
     fires on the navigable waters (as such term is defined in 
     section 502 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 
     U.S.C. 1362)).
       (2) Contents.--In carrying out paragraph (1), the 
     Comptroller General shall--
       (A) examine--
       (i) collaboration among Federal and non-Federal entities 
     for purposes of reducing the risks to local communities of 
     fires described in paragraph (1);
       (ii) the prevalence and frequency of such fires; and
       (iii) the extent to which firefighters and marine 
     firefighters are aware of the dangers of lithium-ion battery 
     fires, including lithium-ion batteries used for vehicles, and 
     how to respond to such fires;
       (B) review methods of documenting and sharing best 
     practices throughout the maritime community for responding to 
     vessel fires; and
       (C) make recommendations for--
       (i) preparing for, responding to, and training for such 
     fires;
       (ii) clarifying roles and responsibilities of Federal and 
     non-Federal entities in preparing for, responding to, and 
     training for such fires; and
       (iii) other topics for consideration.

     SEC. 302. 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. 303. 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. 304. ONLINE INCIDENT REPORTING SYSTEM.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     the enactment of this Act, the National Response Center shall 
     submit to Congress a plan to design, fund, and staff the 
     National Response Center to develop and maintain a web-based 
     application by which the National Response Center may receive 
     notifications of oil discharges or releases of hazardous 
     substances.
       (b) Development of Application.--Not later than 2 years 
     after the date on which the plan is submitted under 
     subsection (a), the National Response Center shall--
       (1) complete development of the application described in 
     such subsection; and
       (2) allow notifications described in such subsection that 
     are required under Federal law or regulation to be made 
     online using such application.
       (c) Use of Application.--In carrying out subsection (b), 
     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.

     SEC. 305. INVESTMENT OF EXXON VALDEZ OIL SPILL COURT RECOVERY 
                   IN HIGH YIELD INVESTMENTS AND MARINE RESEARCH.

       Section 350 of Public Law 106-113 (43 U.S.C. 1474b note) is 
     amended--
       (1) by striking paragraph (5);
       (2) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), (6), and (7) 
     as subsections (c), (d), (e), (f), and (g), respectively, and 
     indenting the subsections appropriately;
       (3) in paragraph (1)--
       (A) by striking ``(1) Notwithstanding any other provision 
     of law and subject to the provisions of paragraphs (5) and 
     (7)'' and inserting the following:
       ``(a) Definitions.--In this section:
       ``(1) Consent decree.--The term `Consent Decree' means the 
     consent decree issued in United States v. Exxon Corporation, 
     et al. (No. A91-082 CIV) and State of Alaska v. Exxon 
     Corporation, et al. (No. A91-083 CIV).
       ``(2) Fund.--The term `Fund' means the Natural Resource 
     Damage Assessment and Restoration Fund established pursuant 
     to title I of the Department of the Interior and Related 
     Agencies Appropriations Act, 1992 (43 U.S.C. 1474b).
       ``(3) Outside account.--The term `outside account' means 
     any account outside the United States Treasury.
       ``(4) Trustee.--The term `Trustee' means a Federal or State 
     natural resource trustee for the Exxon Valdez oil spill.
       ``(b) Deposits.--
       ``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding any other provision of 
     law and subject to subsection (g)'';
       (4) in subsection (b)(1) (as so designated)--
       (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by striking 
     ``issued in United States v. Exxon Corporation, et al. (No. 
     A91-082 CIV) and State of Alaska v. Exxon Corporation, et al. 
     (No. A91-083 CIV) (hereafter referred to as the `Consent 
     Decree'),'';
       (B) by striking subparagraphs (A) and (B) and inserting the 
     following:
       ``(A) the Fund;
       ``(B) an outside account; or''; and
       (C) in the undesignated matter following subparagraph (C)--
       (i) by striking ``the Federal and State natural resource 
     trustees for the Exxon Valdez oil spill (`trustees')'' and 
     inserting ``the Trustees''; and
       (ii) by striking ``Any funds'' and inserting the following:
       ``(2) Requirement for deposits in outside accounts.--Any 
     funds'';
       (5) in subsection (c) (as redesignated by paragraph (2)) by 
     striking ``(c) Joint'' and inserting the following:
       ``(c) Transfers.--Any joint'';
       (6) in subsection (d) (as redesignated by paragraph (2)) by 
     striking ``(d) The transfer'' and inserting the following:
       ``(d) No Effect on Jurisdiction.--The transfer'';
       (7) in subsection (e) (as redesignated by paragraph (2))--
       (A) by striking ``(e) Nothing herein shall affect'' and 
     inserting the following:
       ``(e) Effect on Other Law.--Nothing in this section 
     affects''; and
       (B) by striking ``trustees'' and inserting ``Trustees'';
       (8) in subsection (f) (as redesignated by paragraph (2))--
       (A) by striking ``(f) The Federal trustees and the State 
     trustees'' and inserting the following:
       ``(f) Grants.--The Trustees''; and
       (B) by striking ``this program'' and inserting ``this 
     section, prioritizing the issuance of grants to facilitate 
     habitat protection and habitat restoration programs''; and
       (9) in subsection (g) (as redesignated by paragraph (2))--
       (A) in the second sentence, by striking ``Upon the 
     expiration of the authorities granted in this section all'' 
     and inserting the following:
       ``(2) Return of funds.--On expiration of the authority 
     provided in this section, all''; and
       (B) by striking ``(g) The authority'' and inserting the 
     following:
       ``(g) Expiration.--
       ``(1) In general.--The authority''.

        TITLE IV--SEXUAL ASSAULT AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT RESPONSE

     SEC. 401. 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:

[[Page S1549]]

       (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. 402. COMPREHENSIVE POLICY AND PROCEDURES ON RETENTION 
                   AND ACCESS TO EVIDENCE AND RECORDS RELATING TO 
                   SEXUAL MISCONDUCT AND OTHER MISCONDUCT.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 9 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the 
     following:

     ``Sec. 955. Comprehensive policy and procedures on retention 
       and access to evidence and records relating to sexual 
       misconduct and other misconduct

       ``(a) Issuance of Policy.--Not later than 1 year after the 
     date of the enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025, the Secretary, in consultation with the Office of the 
     Inspector General of the department in which the Coast Guard 
     is operating and the Office of the Inspector General of the 
     Department of Defense, shall issue a comprehensive policy for 
     the Coast Guard on the retention of and access to evidence 
     and records relating to covered misconduct involving members 
     of the Coast Guard.
       ``(b) Objectives.--The comprehensive policy required by 
     subsection (a) shall revise existing policies and procedures, 
     including systems of records, as necessary to ensure 
     preservation of such evidence and records for periods 
     sufficient--
       ``(1) to ensure that members of the Coast Guard who were 
     victims of covered misconduct are able to pursue claims for 
     veterans benefits;
       ``(2) to support administrative processes, criminal 
     proceedings, and civil litigation conducted by military or 
     civil authorities; and
       ``(3) for such other purposes relating to the documentation 
     of an incident of covered misconduct in the Coast Guard as 
     the Secretary considers appropriate.
       ``(c) Elements.--
       ``(1) In general.--In developing the comprehensive policy 
     required by subsection (a), the Secretary shall, at a 
     minimum--
       ``(A) identify records relating to an incident of covered 
     misconduct that shall be retained;
       ``(B) with respect to records relating to covered 
     misconduct involving members of the Coast Guard that are not 
     records of the Coast Guard, identify such records known to or 
     in the possession of the Coast Guard, and set forth 
     procedures for Coast Guard coordination with the custodian of 
     such records for proper retention of the records;
       ``(C) set forth criteria for the collection and retention 
     of records relating to covered misconduct involving members 
     of the Coast Guard;
       ``(D) identify physical evidence and nondocumentary forms 
     of evidence relating to covered misconduct that shall be 
     retained;
       ``(E) set forth the period for which evidence and records 
     relating to covered misconduct involving members of the Coast 
     Guard, including Coast Guard Form 6095, shall be retained, 
     except that--
       ``(i) any physical or forensic evidence relating to rape or 
     sexual assault, as described in sections 920(a) and 920(b) of 
     title 10 (articles 120(a) and 120(b) of the Uniform Code of 
     Military Justice), shall be retained not less than 50 years, 
     and for other covered misconduct not less than the statute of 
     limitations of the alleged offense under the Uniform Code of 
     Military Justice; and
       ``(ii) documentary evidence relating to rape or sexual 
     assault, as described in sections 920(a) and 920(b) of title 
     10 (articles 120(a) and 120(b) of the Uniform Code of 
     Military Justice), shall be retained not less than 50 years;
       ``(F) consider locations in which such records shall be 
     stored;
       ``(G) identify media and methods that may be used to 
     preserve and ensure access to such records, including 
     electronic systems of records;
       ``(H) ensure the protection of privacy of--
       ``(i) individuals named in records and status of records 
     under section 552 of title 5 (commonly referred to as the 
     `Freedom of Information Act') and section 552a of title 5 
     (commonly referred to as the `Privacy Act'); and
       ``(ii) individuals named in restricted reporting cases;
       ``(I) designate the 1 or more positions within the Coast 
     Guard that shall have the responsibility for such record 
     retention by the Coast Guard;
       ``(J) require education and training for members and 
     civilian employees of the Coast Guard on record retention 
     requirements under this section;
       ``(K) set forth criteria for access to such records 
     relating to covered misconduct involving members of the Coast 
     Guard, including whether the consent of the victim should be 
     required, by--
       ``(i) victims of covered misconduct;
       ``(ii) law enforcement authorities;
       ``(iii) the Department of Veterans Affairs; and
       ``(iv) other individuals and entities, including alleged 
     assailants;
       ``(L) require uniform collection of data on--
       ``(i) the incidence of covered misconduct in the Coast 
     Guard; and
       ``(ii) disciplinary actions taken in substantiated cases of 
     covered misconduct in the Coast Guard; and
       ``(M) set forth standards for communications with, and 
     notifications to, victims, consistent with--
       ``(i) the requirements of any applicable Department of 
     Defense policy; and
       ``(ii) to the extent practicable, any applicable policy of 
     the department in which the Coast Guard is operating.
       ``(2) Retention of certain forms and evidence in connection 
     with restricted reports and unrestricted reports of sexual 
     assault involving members of the coast guard.--
       ``(A) In general.--The comprehensive policy required by 
     subsection (a) shall require all unique or original copies of 
     Coast Guard Form 6095 filed in connection with a restricted 
     or unrestricted report on an alleged incident of rape or 
     sexual assault, as described in sections 920(a) and 920(b) of 
     title 10 (articles 120(a) and 120(b) of the Uniform Code of 
     Military Justice), involving a member of the Coast Guard to 
     be retained for the longer of--
       ``(i) 50 years commencing on the date of signature of the 
     covered person on Coast Guard Form 6095; or
       ``(ii) the time provided for the retention of such form in 
     connection with unrestricted and restricted reports on 
     incidents of sexual assault involving members of the Coast 
     Guard under Coast Guard policy.
       ``(B) Protection of confidentiality.--Any Coast Guard form 
     retained under subparagraph (A) shall be retained in a manner 
     that protects the confidentiality of the member of the Coast 
     Guard concerned in accordance with Coast Guard policy.
       ``(3) Retention of case notes in investigations of covered 
     misconduct involving members of the coast guard.--
       ``(A) Required retention of all investigative records.--The 
     comprehensive policy required by subsection (a) shall 
     require, for all criminal investigations relating to an 
     alleged incident of covered misconduct involving a member of 
     the Coast Guard, the retention of all elements of the case 
     file.
       ``(B) Elements.--The elements of the case file to be 
     retained under subparagraph (A) shall include, at a minimum--
       ``(i) the case activity record;
       ``(ii) the case review record;
       ``(iii) investigative plans; and
       ``(iv) all case notes made by any investigating agent.
       ``(C) Retention period.--All elements of the case file 
     shall be retained for not less than 50 years for cases 
     involving rape or sexual assault, as described in sections 
     920(a) and 920(b) of title 10 (articles 120(a) and 120(b) of 
     the Uniform Code of Military Justice), and not less than the 
     statute of limitations of the alleged offense under the 
     Uniform Code of Military Justice for other covered 
     misconduct, and no element of any such case file may be 
     destroyed until the expiration of such period.
       ``(4) Return of personal property upon completion of 
     related proceedings in unrestricted reporting cases.--
     Notwithstanding the records and evidence retention 
     requirements described in paragraphs (1)(E) and (2), personal 
     property retained as evidence in connection with an incident 
     of rape or sexual assault, as described in sections 920(a) 
     and 920(b) of title 10 (articles 120(a) and 120(b) of the 
     Uniform Code of Military Justice), involving a member of the 
     Coast Guard may be returned to the rightful owner of such 
     property after the conclusion of all legal, adverse action, 
     and administrative proceedings related to such incident, as 
     determined by the Commandant.
       ``(5) Return of personal property in restricted reporting 
     cases.--
       ``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall prescribe procedures 
     under which a victim who files a restricted report of an 
     incident of sexual assault may request, at any time, the 
     return of any personal property of the victim obtained as 
     part of the sexual assault forensic examination.
       ``(B) Requirements.--The procedures required by 
     subparagraph (A) shall ensure that--
       ``(i) a request by a victim for the return of personal 
     property described under subparagraph (A) may be made on a 
     confidential basis and without affecting the restricted 
     nature of the restricted report; and
       ``(ii) at the time of the filing of the restricted report, 
     a Special Victims' Counsel, Sexual Assault Response 
     Coordinator, or Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Victim 
     Advocate--

       ``(I) informs the victim that the victim may request the 
     return of personal property as described in such 
     subparagraph; and
       ``(II) advises the victim that such a request for the 
     return of personal property may negatively impact a 
     subsequent case adjudication if the victim later decides to 
     convert the restricted report to an unrestricted report.

       ``(C) Rule of construction.--Except with respect to 
     personal property returned to a victim under this paragraph, 
     nothing in this paragraph may be construed to affect the 
     requirement to retain a sexual assault forensic examination 
     kit for the period specified in paragraph (2).
       ``(6) Victim access to records.--With respect to victim 
     access to records after all final disposition actions and any 
     appeals

[[Page S1550]]

     have been completed, as applicable, the comprehensive policy 
     required by subsection (a) shall provide that, to the maximum 
     extent practicable, and in such a manner that will not 
     jeopardize an active investigation or an active case--
       ``(A) a victim of covered misconduct in a case in which 
     either the victim or alleged perpetrator is a covered person 
     shall have access to all records that are directly related to 
     the victim's case, or related to the victim themselves, in 
     accordance with the policy issued under subsection (a) and 
     subject to required protections under sections 552 and 552a 
     of title 5;
       ``(B) a victim of covered misconduct who requests access to 
     records under section 552 or 552a of title 5 concerning the 
     victim's case shall be determined to have a compelling need, 
     and the records request shall be processed under expedited 
     processing procedures, if in the request for such records the 
     victim indicates that the records concerned are related to 
     the covered misconduct case;
       ``(C) in applying sections 552 and 552a of title 5 to the 
     redaction of information related to a records request by a 
     victim of covered misconduct made under such sections after 
     all final disposition actions and any appeals have been 
     completed--
       ``(i) any such redaction shall be applied to the minimum 
     extent possible so as to ensure the provision of the maximum 
     amount of unredacted information to the victim that is 
     permissible by law; and
       ``(ii) any such redaction shall not be applied to--

       ``(I) receipt by the victim of the victim's own statement; 
     or
       ``(II) the victim's information from an investigation; and

       ``(D) in the case of such a records request for which the 
     timelines for expedited processing are not met, the 
     Commandant shall provide to the Secretary, the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives a briefing that explains the reasons for 
     the denial or the delay in processing, as applicable.
       ``(d) Definition of Covered Person.--In this section, the 
     term `covered person' includes--
       ``(1) a member of the Coast Guard on active duty;
       ``(2) a member of the Coast Guard Reserve with respect to 
     crimes investigated by or reported to the Secretary on any 
     date on which such member is in a military status under 
     section 802 of title 10 (article 2 of the Uniform Code of 
     Military Justice);
       ``(3) a former member of the Coast Guard with respect to 
     crimes investigated by or reported to the Secretary; and
       ``(4) in the case of an investigation of covered misconduct 
     conducted by, or an incident of covered misconduct reported 
     to, the Coast Guard involving a civilian employee of the 
     Coast Guard, any such civilian employee of the Coast Guard.
       ``(e) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section authorizes 
     or requires, or shall be construed to authorize or require, 
     the discovery, inspection, or production of reports, 
     memoranda, or other internal documents or work product 
     generated by counsel, an attorney for the Government, or 
     their assistants or representatives.''.
       (b) In General.--Subchapter II of chapter 9 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

     ``Sec. 956. Requirement to maintain certain records

       ``(a) In General.--The Commandant shall maintain all work 
     product related to 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 an offense against chapter 47 of title 10.
       ``(b) Record Retention Period.--Work product documents and 
     the case action summary described in subsection (c) shall be 
     maintained for a period of not less than 7 years from the 
     date of the disposition decision.
       ``(c) Case Action Summary.--Upon a final disposition action 
     for cases described in subsection (a), except for offenses of 
     wrongful use or possession of a controlled substance under 
     section 912a of title 10 (article 112a of the Uniform Code of 
     Military Justice), where the member accused is an officer of 
     pay grade O-4 and below or an enlisted member of pay grade E-
     7 and below, a convening authority shall sign a case action 
     summary that includes the following:
       ``(1) The disposition actions.
       ``(2) The name and command of the referral authority.
       ``(3) Records documenting when a referral authority 
     consulted with a staff judge advocate or special trial 
     counsel, as applicable, before a disposition action was 
     taken, to include the recommendation of the staff judge 
     advocate or special trial counsel.
       ``(4) A reference section listing the materials reviewed in 
     making a disposition decision.
       ``(5) The Coast Guard Investigative Service report of 
     investigation.
       ``(6) The completed Coast Guard Investigative Service 
     report of adjudication included as an enclosure.
       ``(d) Definition.--In this section, the term `work product' 
     includes--
       ``(1) a prosecution memorandum;
       ``(2) emails, notes, and other correspondence related to a 
     disposition decision; and
       ``(3) the contents described in paragraphs (1) through (6) 
     of subsection (c).
       ``(e) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section authorizes 
     or requires, or shall be construed to authorize or require, 
     the discovery, inspection, or production of reports, 
     memoranda, or other internal documents or work product 
     generated by counsel, an attorney for the Government, or 
     their assistants or representatives.''.
       (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 9 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

``Sec. 955. Comprehensive policy and procedures on retention and access 
              to evidence and records relating to sexual misconduct and 
              other misconduct.
``Sec. 956. Requirement to maintain certain records.''.

     SEC. 403. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR TRANSFER OF A CADET AT 
                   THE COAST GUARD ACADEMY WHO IS THE VICTIM OF A 
                   SEXUAL ASSAULT OR RELATED OFFENSE.

       Section 1902 of title 14, United States Code, is further 
     amended by adding at the end the following:
       ``(g) 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 another 
     military service academy or to enroll in a Senior Reserve 
     Officers' Training Corps program affiliated with another 
     institution of higher education.
       ``(2) Regulations.--The Commandant, in consultation with 
     the Secretary of Defense, shall establish policies to carry 
     out this subsection that--
       ``(A) provide that the Superintendent shall 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 
     who alleges an offense referred to in paragraph (1) is 
     processed as expeditiously as practicable through the chain 
     of command for review and action by the Superintendent;
       ``(B) direct the Superintendent, in coordination with the 
     Superintendent of the military service academy to which the 
     cadet requests to transfer--
       ``(i) to take action 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;
       ``(iii) upon approval of such request for transfer, to take 
     all necessary and appropriate action to effectuate the 
     transfer of the cadet to the military service academy 
     concerned as expeditiously as possible, subject to the 
     considerations described in clause (iv); and
       ``(iv) in determining the transfer date of the cadet to the 
     military service academy concerned, to take into account--

       ``(I) the preferences of the cadet, including any 
     preference to delay transfer until the completion of any 
     academic course in which the cadet is enrolled at the time of 
     the request for transfer; and
       ``(II) the well-being of the cadet; 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 take action 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;
       ``(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, subject to the considerations described in clause 
     (iv); and
       ``(iv) in determining the transfer date of the cadet to the 
     institution of higher education to which the cadet wishes to 
     transfer, to take into account--

       ``(I) the preferences of the cadet, including any 
     preference to delay transfer until the completion of any 
     academic course in which the cadet is enrolled at the time of 
     the request for transfer; and
       ``(II) the well-being of the cadet.

       ``(3) Review.--If the Superintendent denies a request for 
     transfer under this subsection, the cadet may request review 
     of the denial by the Secretary, who shall take action on such 
     request for review not later than 72 hours after receipt of 
     such request.
       ``(4) Confidentiality.--The Secretary 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) Effect of other law.--A cadet who transfers under 
     this subsection may retain

[[Page S1551]]

     the cadet's appointment to the Coast Guard Academy or may be 
     appointed to the military service academy to which the cadet 
     transfers without regard to the limitations and requirements 
     set forth in sections 7442, 8454, and 9442 of title 10.
       ``(6) Commission as officer in the coast guard.--
       ``(A) In general.--Upon graduation, a graduate of the 
     United States Military Academy, the United States Air Force 
     Academy, or the United States Naval Academy who transferred 
     to that academy under this subsection 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 set forth in section 2101 of this 
     title.
       ``(B) Commission as officer in other armed force.--
       ``(i) In general.--A cadet who transfers under this 
     subsection to the United States Military Academy, the United 
     States Air Force Academy, or the United States Naval Academy 
     and indicates a preference pursuant to clause (ii) may be 
     appointed as a commissioned officer in an armed force 
     associated with the academy from which the cadet graduated.
       ``(ii) Statement of preference.--A cadet seeking 
     appointment as a commissioned officer in an armed force 
     associated with the academy from which the cadet graduated 
     under clause (i) shall, before graduating from that academy, 
     indicate to the Commandant that the cadet has a preference 
     for appointment to that armed force.
       ``(iii) Consideration by coast guard.--The Commandant shall 
     consider a preference of a cadet indicated pursuant to clause 
     (ii), but may require the cadet to serve as a permanent 
     commissioned officer in the Regular Coast Guard instead of 
     being appointed as a commissioned officer in an armed force 
     associated with the academy from which the cadet graduated.
       ``(iv) Treatment of service agreement.--With respect to a 
     service agreement entered into under section 1925 of this 
     title by a cadet who transfers under this subsection to the 
     United States Military Academy, the United States Air Force 
     Academy, or the United States Naval Academy and is appointed 
     as a commissioned officer in an armed force associated with 
     that academy, the service obligation undertaken under such 
     agreement shall be considered to be satisfied upon the 
     completion of 5 years of active duty service in the service 
     of such armed force.
       ``(C) Senior reserve officers' training corps program.--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 set forth in section 
     3738a of this title.''.

     SEC. 404. 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 this section''.
       (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 
     this section; 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 this 
     section'' 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 this section, 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 this section, or the officers on 
     the''.

     SEC. 405. SAFE-TO-REPORT POLICY FOR COAST GUARD.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 19 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

     ``Sec. 1909. Safe-to-Report policy for Coast Guard

       ``(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, the 
     Commandant shall, in consultation with the Secretaries of the 
     military departments, establish and maintain a 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), cadets 
     at the Coast Guard Academy, and any other individual 
     undergoing training at an accession point of the Coast Guard.
       ``(b) Safe-to-Report Policy.--The safe-to-report policy 
     described in this subsection is a policy that--
       ``(1) 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; and
       ``(2) applies to all such individuals, regardless of--
       ``(A) to whom the victim makes the allegation or who 
     receives the victim's report of sexual assault; or
       ``(B) whether the report, investigation, or prosecution is 
     handled by military or civilian authorities.
       ``(c) Mitigating and Aggravating Circumstances.--In issuing 
     the policy under subsection (a), the Commandant 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 the policy under subsection 
     (a), the Commandant shall develop and implement a process to 
     anonymously track incidents of minor collateral misconduct 
     that are subject to the safe-to-report policy.
       ``(e) Minor Collateral Misconduct Defined.--In this 
     section, the term `minor collateral misconduct' means any 
     minor misconduct that is potentially 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 allegation of 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 policy 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 further amended by inserting 
     after the item relating to section 1908 (as added by this 
     Act) the following:

``1909. Safe-to-Report policy for Coast Guard.''.

     SEC. 406. MODIFICATION OF REPORTING REQUIREMENTS ON COVERED 
                   MISCONDUCT IN COAST GUARD.

       (a) Assessment of Policy on Covered Misconduct.--Section 
     1902 of title 14, United States Code, is further amended--
       (1) in the section heading by striking ``Policy on sexual 
     harassment and sexual violence'' and inserting ``Academy 
     policy and report on covered misconduct''; and
       (2) by striking subsections (c) through (e) and inserting 
     the following:
       ``(c) Assessment.--
       ``(1) In general.--The Commandant shall direct the 
     Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy to conduct at the 
     Coast Guard Academy during each Academy program year an 
     assessment to determine the effectiveness of the policies of 
     the Academy with respect to covered misconduct involving 
     cadets or other military or civilian personnel of the 
     Academy.
       ``(2) Biennial survey.--For the assessment at the Academy 
     under paragraph (1) with respect to an Academy program year 
     that begins in an odd-numbered calendar year, the 
     Superintendent shall conduct a survey of cadets and other 
     military and civilian personnel of the Academy--
       ``(A) to measure the incidence, during such program year--
       ``(i) of covered misconduct events, on or off the Academy 
     campus, that have been reported to an official of the 
     Academy;
       ``(ii) of covered misconduct events, on or off the Academy 
     campus, that have not been reported to an official of the 
     Academy; and
       ``(iii) of retaliation related to a report of a covered 
     misconduct event, on or off the Academy campus; and
       ``(B) to assess the perceptions of the cadets and other 
     military and civilian personnel of the Academy with respect 
     to--
       ``(i) the Academy's policies, training, and procedures on 
     covered misconduct involving

[[Page S1552]]

     cadets and other military and civilian personnel of the 
     Academy;
       ``(ii) the enforcement of such policies;
       ``(iii) the incidence of covered misconduct involving 
     cadets and other military and civilian personnel of the 
     Academy; and
       ``(iv) any other issues relating to covered misconduct 
     involving cadets and other military and civilian personnel of 
     the Academy.
       ``(d) Report.--
       ``(1) In general.--Not earlier than 1 year after the date 
     of the enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025, and each March 1 thereafter through March 1, 2031, the 
     Commandant shall direct the Superintendent to submit to the 
     Commandant a report on incidents of covered misconduct and 
     retaliation for reporting of covered misconduct involving 
     cadets or other military and civilian personnel of the 
     Academy.
       ``(2) Elements.--
       ``(A) In general.--Each report required under paragraph (1) 
     shall include the following:
       ``(i) Information and data on all incidents of covered 
     misconduct and retaliation described in paragraph (1) 
     reported to the Superintendent or any other official of the 
     Academy during the preceding Academy program year (referred 
     to in this subsection as a `reported incident'),
       ``(ii) The number of reported incidents committed against a 
     cadet or any other military or civilian personnel of the 
     Academy.
       ``(iii) The number of reported incidents committed by a 
     cadet or any other military or civilian personnel of the 
     Academy.
       ``(iv) Information on reported incidents, in accordance 
     with the policy prescribed under section 549G(b) of the 
     National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (10 
     U.S.C. 1561 note), to the maximum extent practicable.
       ``(v) The number of reported incidents that were entered 
     into the Catch a Serial Offender system, including the number 
     of such incidents that resulted in the identification of a 
     potential or confirmed match.
       ``(vi) The number of reported incidents that were 
     substantiated (referred to in this subsection as a 
     `substantiated reported incident').
       ``(vii) A synopsis of each substantiated reported incident 
     that includes--

       ``(I) a brief description of the nature of the incident;
       ``(II) whether the accused cadet or other military or 
     civilian personnel of the Academy had previously been 
     convicted of sexual assault; and
       ``(III) whether alcohol or other controlled or prohibited 
     substances were involved in the incident, and a description 
     of the involvement.

       ``(viii) The type of case disposition associated with each 
     substantiated reported incident, such as--

       ``(I) conviction and sentence by court-martial, including 
     charges and specifications for which convicted;
       ``(II) acquittal of all charges at court-martial;
       ``(III) as appropriate, imposition of a nonjudicial 
     punishment under section 815 of title 10 (article 15 of the 
     Uniform Code of Military Justice);
       ``(IV) as appropriate, administrative action taken, 
     including a description of each type of such action imposed;
       ``(V) dismissal of all charges, including a description of 
     each reason for dismissal and the stage at which dismissal 
     occurred; and
       ``(VI) whether the accused cadet or other military or 
     civilian personnel of the Academy was administratively 
     separated or, in the case of an officer, allowed to resign in 
     lieu of court martial, and the characterization (honorable, 
     general, or other than honorable) of the service of the 
     military member upon separation or resignation.

       ``(ix) With respect to any incident of covered misconduct 
     involving cadets or other military and civilian personnel of 
     the Academy reported to the Superintendent or any other 
     official of the Academy during the preceding Academy program 
     year that involves a report of retaliation relating to the 
     incident--

       ``(I) a narrative description of the retaliation claim;
       ``(II) the nature of the relationship between the 
     complainant and the individual accused of committing the 
     retaliation; and
       ``(III) the nature of the relationship between the 
     individual accused of committing the covered misconduct and 
     the individual accused of committing the retaliation.

       ``(x) With respect to any investigation of a reported 
     incident--

       ``(I) whether the investigation is in open or completed 
     status;
       ``(II) an identification of the investigating entity;
       ``(III) whether a referral has been made to outside law 
     enforcement entities;
       ``(IV) in the case of an investigation that is complete, a 
     description of the results of such an investigation and 
     information with respect to whether the results of the 
     investigation were provided to the complainant; and
       ``(V) whether the investigation substantiated an offense 
     under chapter 47 of title 10 (the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice).

       ``(B) Format.--With respect to the information and data 
     required under subparagraph (A), the Commandant shall report 
     such information and data separately for each type of covered 
     misconduct offense, and shall not aggregate the information 
     and data for multiple types of covered misconduct offenses.
       ``(3) Trends.--Subject to subsection (f), beginning on the 
     date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025, each report required under paragraph (1) shall include 
     an analysis of trends in incidents described in paragraph 
     (1), as applicable, since the date of the enactment of the 
     Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 (Public 
     Law 112-213).
       ``(4) Response.--Each report required under paragraph (1) 
     shall include, for the preceding Academy program year, a 
     description of the policies, procedures, processes, 
     initiatives, investigations (including overarching 
     investigations), research, or studies implemented by the 
     Commandant in response to any incident described in paragraph 
     (1) involving a cadet or any other military or civilian 
     personnel of the Academy.
       ``(5) Plan.--Each report required under paragraph (1) shall 
     include a plan for actions to be taken during the year 
     following the Academy program year covered by the report to 
     enhance the prevention of and response to incidents of 
     covered misconduct and retaliation for reporting of covered 
     misconduct involving cadets or other military or civilian 
     personnel of the Academy.
       ``(6) Covered misconduct prevention and response 
     activities.--Each report required under paragraph (1) shall 
     include an assessment of the adequacy of covered misconduct 
     prevention and response carried out by the Academy during the 
     preceding Academy program year.
       ``(7) Contributing factors.--Each report required under 
     paragraph (1) shall include, for incidents of covered 
     misconduct and retaliation for reporting of covered 
     misconduct involving cadets or other military or civilian 
     personnel of the Academy--
       ``(A) an analysis of the factors that may have contributed 
     to such incidents;
       ``(B) an assessment of the role of such factors in 
     contributing to such incidents during such Academy program 
     year; and
       ``(C) recommendations for mechanisms to eliminate or reduce 
     such contributing factors.
       ``(8) Biennial survey.--Each report under paragraph (1) for 
     an Academy program year that begins in an odd-numbered 
     calendar year shall include the results of the survey 
     conducted under subsection (c)(2) in such Academy program 
     year.
       ``(9) Focus groups.--For each Academy program year with 
     respect to which the Superintendent is not required to 
     conduct a survey at the Academy under subsection (c)(2), the 
     Commandant shall require focus groups to be conducted at the 
     Academy for the purpose of ascertaining information relating 
     to covered misconduct issues at the Academy.
       ``(10) Submission of report; briefing.--
       ``(A) Submission.--Not later than 270 days after the date 
     on which the Commandant receives a report from the 
     Superintendent under paragraph (1), the Commandant shall 
     submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives, as an enclosure or appendix to the report 
     required by section 5112--
       ``(i) the report of the Superintendent;
       ``(ii) the comments of the Commandant with respect to the 
     report; and
       ``(iii) relevant information gathered during a focus group 
     under subparagraph (A) during the Academy program year 
     covered by the report, as applicable.
       ``(B) Briefing.--Not later than 180 days after the date on 
     which the Commandant submits a report under subparagraph (A), 
     the Commandant shall provide a briefing on the report 
     submitted under subparagraph (A) to--
       ``(i) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives; and
       ``(ii) the Secretary of Homeland Security.
       ``(e) Victim Confidentiality.--To the extent that 
     information collected or reported under the authority of this 
     section, such information shall be provided in a form that is 
     consistent with applicable privacy protections under Federal 
     law and does not jeopardize the confidentiality of victims.
       ``(f) Continuity of Data and Reporting.--In carrying out 
     this section, the Commandant shall ensure the continuity of 
     data collection and reporting such that the ability to 
     analyze trends is not compromised.''.
       (b) Covered Misconduct in Coast Guard.--Section 5112 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:

     ``Sec. 5112. Covered misconduct in Coast Guard

       ``(a) In General.--Not later than March 1 each year, the 
     Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on incidents of covered misconduct 
     involving members of the Coast Guard, including recruits and 
     officer candidates, and claims of retaliation related to the 
     reporting of any such incident.
       ``(b) Continuity of Data and Reporting.--In carrying out 
     this section, the Commandant shall ensure the continuity of 
     data collection and reporting such that the ability to 
     analyze trends is not compromised.
       ``(c) Contents.--
       ``(1) Incidents involving members.--
       ``(A) Information and data.--
       ``(i) In general.--Each report required under subsection 
     (a) shall include, for the

[[Page S1553]]

     preceding calendar year, information and data on--

       ``(I) incidents of covered misconduct; and
       ``(II) incidents of retaliation against a member of the 
     Coast Guard related to the reporting of covered misconduct, 
     disaggregated by type of retaliation claim.

       ``(ii) Inclusions.--The information and data on the 
     incidents described in clause (i) shall include the 
     following:

       ``(I) All incidents of covered misconduct and retaliation 
     described in clause (i) reported to the Commandant or any 
     other official of the Coast Guard during the preceding 
     calendar year (referred to in this subsection as a `reported 
     incident').
       ``(II) The number of reported incidents committed against 
     members of the Coast Guard.
       ``(III) The number of reported incidents committed by 
     members of the Coast Guard.
       ``(IV) Information on reported incidents, in accordance 
     with the policy prescribed under section 549G(b) of the 
     National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (10 
     U.S.C. 1561 note), to the maximum extent practicable.
       ``(V) The number of reported incidents that were entered 
     into the Catch a Serial Offender system, including the number 
     of such incidents that resulted in the identification of a 
     potential or confirmed match.
       ``(VI) The number of reported incidents that were 
     substantiated (referred to in this subsection as a 
     `substantiated reported incident').
       ``(VII) A synopsis of each substantiated reported incident 
     that includes--

       ``(aa) a brief description of the nature of the incident;
       ``(bb) whether the accused member has previously been 
     convicted of sexual assault; and
       ``(cc) whether alcohol or other controlled or prohibited 
     substances were involved in the incident, and a description 
     of the involvement.

       ``(VIII) The type of case disposition associated with each 
     substantiated reported incident, such as--

       ``(aa) conviction and sentence by court-martial, including 
     charges and specifications for which convicted;
       ``(bb) acquittal of all charges at court-martial;
       ``(cc) as appropriate, imposition of a nonjudicial 
     punishment under section 815 of title 10 (article 15 of the 
     Uniform Code of Military Justice);
       ``(dd) as appropriate, administrative action taken, 
     including a description of each type of such action imposed;
       ``(ee) dismissal of all charges, including a description of 
     each reason for dismissal and the stage at which dismissal 
     occurred; and
       ``(ff) whether the accused member was administratively 
     separated or, in the case of an officer, allowed to resign in 
     lieu of court-martial, and the characterization (honorable, 
     general, or other than honorable) of the service of the 
     member upon separation or resignation.

       ``(IX) With respect to any incident of covered misconduct 
     reported to the Commandant or any other official of the Coast 
     Guard during the preceding calendar year that involves a 
     report of retaliation relating to the incident--

       ``(aa) a narrative description of the retaliation claim;
       ``(bb) the nature of the relationship between the 
     complainant and the individual accused of committing the 
     retaliation; and
       ``(cc) the nature of the relationship between the 
     individual accused of committing the covered misconduct and 
     the individual accused of committing the retaliation.

       ``(X) The disposition of or action taken by the Coast Guard 
     or any other Federal, State, local, or Tribal entity with 
     respect to a substantiated reported incident.
       ``(XI) With respect to any investigation of a reported 
     incident--

       ``(aa) the status of the investigation or information 
     relating to any referral to outside law enforcement entities;
       ``(bb) the official or office of the Coast Guard that 
     received the complaint;
       ``(cc) a description of the results of such an 
     investigation or information with respect to whether the 
     results of the investigation were provided to the 
     complainant; or
       ``(dd) whether the investigation substantiated an offense 
     under chapter 47 of title 10 (the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice).
       ``(iii) Format.--With respect to the information and data 
     required under clause (i), the Commandant shall report such 
     information and data separately for each type of covered 
     misconduct offense, and shall not aggregate the information 
     and data for multiple types of covered misconduct offenses.
       ``(B) Trends.--Subject to subsection (b), beginning on the 
     date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025, each report required by subsection (a) shall include, 
     for the preceding calendar year, an analysis or assessment of 
     trends in the occurrence, as applicable, of incidents 
     described in subparagraph (A)(i), since the date of enactment 
     of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 
     (Public Law 112-213).
       ``(C) Response.--Each report required under subsection (a) 
     shall include, for the preceding calendar year, a description 
     of the policies, procedures, processes, initiatives, 
     investigations (including overarching investigations), 
     research, or studies implemented by the Commandant in 
     response to any incident described in subparagraph (A)(i) 
     involving a member of the Coast Guard.
       ``(D) Plan.--Each report required under subsection (a) 
     shall include a plan for actions to be taken during the year 
     following the year covered by the report to enhance the 
     prevention of and response to incidents described in 
     subparagraph (A)(i) involving members of the Coast Guard.
       ``(E) Covered misconduct prevention and response 
     activities.--Each report required under subsection (a) shall 
     include an assessment of the adequacy of covered misconduct 
     prevention and response activities related to incidents 
     described in subparagraph (A)(i) carried out by the Coast 
     Guard during the preceding calendar year.
       ``(F) Contributing factors.--Each report required under 
     subsection (a) shall include, for incidents described in 
     subparagraph (A)(i)--
       ``(i) an analysis of the factors that may have contributed 
     to such incidents;
       ``(ii) an assessment of the role of such factors in 
     contributing to such incidents during such year; and
       ``(iii) recommendations for mechanisms to eliminate or 
     reduce such contributing factors.
       ``(2) Incidents involving recruits and officer 
     candidates.--
       ``(A) Information and data.--
       ``(i) In general.--Subject to subsection (b), each report 
     required under subsection (a) shall include, as a separate 
     appendix or enclosure, for the preceding calendar year, 
     information and data on--

       ``(I) incidents of covered misconduct involving a recruit 
     of the Coast Guard at Training Center Cape May or an officer 
     candidate at the Coast Guard Officer Candidate School; and
       ``(II) incidents of retaliation against such a recruit or 
     officer candidate related to the reporting of covered 
     misconduct, disaggregated by type of retaliation claim.

       ``(ii) Inclusions.--

       ``(I) In general.--The information and data on the 
     incidents described in clause (i) shall include the 
     following:

       ``(aa) All incidents of covered misconduct and retaliation 
     described in clause (i) reported to the Commandant or any 
     other official of the Coast Guard during the preceding 
     calendar year (referred to in this subsection as a `reported 
     incident').
       ``(bb) The number of reported incidents committed against 
     recruits and officer candidates described in clause (i)(I).
       ``(cc) The number of reported incidents committed by such 
     recruits and officer candidates.
       ``(dd) Information on reported incidents, in accordance 
     with the policy prescribed under section 549G(b) of the 
     National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2022 (10 
     U.S.C. 1561 note), to the maximum extent practicable.
       ``(ee)(AA) The number of reported incidents that were 
     entered into the Catch a Serial Offender system.
       ``(BB) Of such reported incidents entered into such system, 
     the number that resulted in the identification of a potential 
     or confirmed match.
       ``(ff) The number of reported incidents that were 
     substantiated (referred to in this subsection as a 
     `substantiated reported incident').
       ``(gg) A synopsis of each substantiated reported incident 
     that includes--
       ``(AA) a brief description of the nature of the incident; 
     and
       ``(BB) whether alcohol or other controlled or prohibited 
     substances were involved in the incident, and a description 
     of the involvement.
       ``(hh) The type of case disposition associated with each 
     substantiated reported incident, such as--
       ``(AA) conviction and sentence by court-martial, including 
     charges and specifications for which convicted;
       ``(BB) acquittal of all charges at court-martial;
       ``(CC) as appropriate, imposition of a nonjudicial 
     punishment under section 815 of title 10 (article 15 of the 
     Uniform Code of Military Justice);
       ``(DD) as appropriate, administrative action taken, 
     including a description of each type of such action imposed;
       ``(EE) dismissal of all charges, including a description of 
     each reason for dismissal and the stage at which dismissal 
     occurred; and
       ``(FF) whether the accused member was administratively 
     separated or, in the case of an officer, allowed to resign in 
     lieu of court-martial, and the characterization (honorable, 
     general, or other than honorable) of the service of the 
     member upon separation or resignation.
       ``(ii) With respect to any incident of covered misconduct 
     involving recruits or officer candidates reported to the 
     Commandant or any other official of the Coast Guard during 
     the preceding calendar year that involves a report of 
     retaliation relating to the incident--
       ``(AA) a narrative description of the retaliation claim;
       ``(BB) the nature of the relationship between the 
     complainant and the individual accused of committing the 
     retaliation; and
       ``(CC) the nature of the relationship between the 
     individual accused of committing the covered misconduct and 
     the individual accused of committing the retaliation.
       ``(jj) The disposition of or action taken by the Coast 
     Guard or any other Federal, State, local, or Tribal entity 
     with respect to a substantiated reported incident.
       ``(kk) With respect to any investigation of a reported 
     incident--

[[Page S1554]]

       ``(AA) the status of the investigation or information 
     relating to any referral to outside law enforcement entities;
       ``(BB) the official or office of the Coast Guard that 
     received the complaint;
       ``(CC) a description of the results of such an 
     investigation or information with respect to whether the 
     results of the investigation were provided to the 
     complainant; or
       ``(DD) whether the investigation substantiated an offense 
     under chapter 47 of title 10 (the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice).

       ``(II) Format.--With respect to the information and data 
     required under clause (i), the Commandant shall report such 
     information and data separately for each type of covered 
     misconduct offense, and shall not aggregate the information 
     and data for multiple types of covered misconduct offenses.

       ``(B) Trends.--Subject to subsection (b), beginning on the 
     date of enactment of Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, 
     each report required by subsection (a) shall include, for the 
     preceding calendar year, an analysis or assessment of trends 
     in the occurrence, as applicable, of incidents described in 
     subparagraph (A)(i), since the date of enactment of the Coast 
     Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 (Public Law 
     112-213).
       ``(C) Response.--Each report required under subsection (a) 
     shall include, for the preceding calendar year, a description 
     of the policies, procedures, processes, initiatives, 
     investigations (including overarching investigations), 
     research, or studies implemented by the Commandant in 
     response to any incident described in subparagraph (A)(i) 
     involving--
       ``(i) a recruit of the Coast Guard at Training Center Cape 
     May; or
       ``(ii) an officer candidate at the Coast Guard Officer 
     Candidate School.
       ``(D) Plan.--Each report required under subsection (a) 
     shall include a plan for actions to be taken during the year 
     following the year covered by the report to enhance the 
     prevention of and response to incidents described in 
     subparagraph (A)(i) involving a recruit of the Coast Guard at 
     Training Center Cape May or an officer candidate at the Coast 
     Guard Officer Candidate School.
       ``(E) Covered misconduct prevention and response 
     activities.--Each report required under subsection (a) shall 
     include an assessment of the adequacy of covered misconduct 
     prevention and response activities related to incidents 
     described in subparagraph (A)(i) of this paragraph carried 
     out by the Coast Guard during the preceding calendar year.
       ``(F) Contributing factors.--Each report required under 
     subsection (a) shall include, for incidents described in 
     subparagraph (A)(i)--
       ``(i) an analysis of the factors that may have contributed 
     to such incidents;
       ``(ii) an assessment of the role of such factors in 
     contributing to such incidents during such year; and
       ``(iii) recommendations for mechanisms to eliminate or 
     reduce such contributing factors.
       ``(3) Implementation status of accountability and 
     transparency review directed actions.--Each report required 
     under subsection (a) submitted during the 5-year period 
     beginning on March 1, 2025, shall include information on the 
     implementation by the Commandant of the directed actions 
     described in the memorandum of the Coast Guard titled 
     `Commandant's Directed Actions--Accountability and 
     Transparency', issued on November 27, 2023, including--
       ``(A) a description of actions taken to address each 
     directed action during the year covered by the report;
       ``(B) the implementation status of each directed action;
       ``(C) in the case of any directed action that has not been 
     implemented--
       ``(i) a detailed action plan for implementation of the 
     recommendation;
       ``(ii) an estimated timeline for implementation of the 
     recommendation;
       ``(iii) description of changes the Commandant intends to 
     make to associated Coast Guard policies so as to enable the 
     implementation of the recommendation; and
       ``(iv) any other information the Commandant considers 
     appropriate;
       ``(D) a description of the metrics and milestones used to 
     measure completion, accountability, and effectiveness of each 
     directed action;
       ``(E) a description of any additional actions the 
     Commandant is taking to mitigate instances of covered 
     misconduct within the Coast Guard;
       ``(F) any legislative change proposal necessary to 
     implement the directed actions; and
       ``(G) a detailed list of funding necessary to implement the 
     directed actions in a timely and effective manner, including 
     a list of personnel needed for such implementation.
       ``(d) Victim Confidentiality.--To the extent that 
     information collected under the authority of this section is 
     reported or otherwise made available to the public, such 
     information shall be provided in a form that is consistent 
     with applicable privacy protections under Federal law and 
     does not jeopardize the confidentiality of victims.
       ``(e) Substantiated Defined.--In this section, the term 
     `substantiated' has the meaning given the term under section 
     1631(c) of the Ike Skelton National Defense Authorization Act 
     for Fiscal Year 2011 (10 U.S.C. 1561 note).''.
       (c) Clerical Amendments.--
       (1) Chapter 19.--The table of sections for chapter 19 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking the item 
     relating to section 1902 and inserting the following new 
     item:

``1902. Academy policy and report on covered misconduct.''.
       (2) Chapter 51.--The table of sections for chapter 51 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking the item 
     relating to section 5112 and inserting the following new 
     item:

``5112. Covered misconduct in the Coast Guard.''.

     SEC. 407. MODIFICATIONS TO THE OFFICER INVOLUNTARY SEPARATION 
                   PROCESS.

       (a) Review of Records.--Section 2158 of title 14, United 
     States Code, is amended in the matter preceding paragraph (1) 
     by striking ``may at any time convene a board of officers'' 
     and inserting ``shall prescribe, by regulation, procedures''.
       (b) Boards of Inquiry.--Section 2159(c) of such title is 
     amended by striking ``send the record of its proceedings to a 
     board of review'' and inserting ``recommend to the Secretary 
     that the officer not be retained on active duty''.
       (c) Repeal of Boards of Review.--Section 2160 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is repealed.
       (d) Technical and Conforming Amendments.--
       (1) Title 14, United States Code, is amended--
       (A) in section 2161 by striking ``section 2158, 2159, or 
     2160'' each place it appears and inserting ``section 2158 or 
     2159'';
       (B) in section 2163, in the first sentence by striking 
     ``board of review under section 2160 of this title'' and 
     inserting ``board of inquiry under section 2159 of this 
     title''; and
       (C) in section 2164(a), in the matter preceding paragraph 
     (1) by striking ``or 2160''.
       (2) The analysis at the beginning of chapter 21 of title 
     14, United States Code, is amended by striking the item 
     relating to section 2160.

     SEC. 408. REVIEW OF DISCHARGE CHARACTERIZATION.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 25 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

     ``Sec. 2518. Review of discharge characterization

       ``(a) Downgrade.--
       ``(1) In general.--The decision to conduct a case review 
     under this section shall be at the discretion of the 
     Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is 
     operating.
       ``(2) Board of review.--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 and under part 51 of title 33, Code of Federal 
     Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of the 
     Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025), 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 to a general (under honorable 
     conditions) discharge 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 title 
     10 (article 120, 120b, or 134 of the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice).
       ``(3) Evidence.--Any downgrade under paragraph (2) shall be 
     supported by clear and convincing evidence.
       ``(4) Limitation.--The review board under paragraph (2) may 
     not downgrade a discharge of a former member of the Coast 
     Guard if the same action described in paragraph (2) 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 and under part 51 of title 33, Code 
     of Federal Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment 
     of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025), shall be based 
     on the records of the Coast Guard, and with respect to a 
     member who also served in another one of the armed forces, 
     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) Rulemaking.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall initiate a 
     rulemaking to implement this section.
       (2) Deadline for regulations.--The regulations issued under 
     paragraph (1) shall take effect not later than 180 days after 
     the date

[[Page S1555]]

     on which the Commandant promulgates a final rule pursuant to 
     such paragraph.
       (c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is further amended by inserting 
     after the item relating to section 2517 (as added by this 
     Act) the following:

``2518. Review of discharge characterization.''.

     SEC. 409. CONVICTED SEX OFFENDER AS GROUNDS FOR DENIAL.

       Section 7511(a) of title 46, United States Code, is 
     amended--
       (1) in paragraph (1) by striking ``or'';
       (2) in paragraph (2) by striking ``State, local, or Tribal 
     law'' and inserting ``Federal, State, local, or Tribal law'';
       (3) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3); and
       (4) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
       ``(2) section 920 or 920b of title 10 (article 120 and 120b 
     of the Uniform Code of Military Justice); or''.

     SEC. 410. DEFINITION OF COVERED MISCONDUCT.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 25 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

     ``Sec. 2519. Covered misconduct defined

       ``In this title, the term `covered misconduct' means--
       ``(1) rape and sexual assault, as described in sections 
     920(a) and 920(b) of title 10 (articles 120(a) and 120(b) of 
     the Uniform Code of Military Justice);
       ``(2) sexual harassment, as described in Executive Order 
     14062 dated January 26, 2022, and enumerated under section 
     934 of title 10 (article 134 of the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice);
       ``(3) abusive sexual contact and aggravated sexual contact, 
     as described in sections 920(c) and 920(d) of title 10 
     (articles 120(c) and 120(d) of the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice);
       ``(4) wrongful broadcast, dissemination, or creation of 
     content as described in sections 917 and 920c of title 10 
     (articles 117a and 120c of the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice);
       ``(5) the child pornography offenses as described in 
     section 934 of title 10 (article 134 of the Uniform Code of 
     Military Justice);
       ``(6) rape and sexual assault of a child, other sexual 
     misconduct, and stalking, as described in sections 920b, 
     920c(a), and 930 of title 10 (articles 120b, 120c, and 130 of 
     the Uniform Code of Military Justice); and
       ``(7) domestic violence, as described in section 928b of 
     title 10 (article 128b of the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice).''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 2518 the following:

``2519. Covered misconduct defined.''.

     SEC. 411. NOTIFICATION OF CHANGES TO UNIFORM CODE OF MILITARY 
                   JUSTICE OR MANUAL FOR COURTS MARTIAL RELATING 
                   TO COVERED MISCONDUCT.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 51 of title 14, United States 
     Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:

     ``Sec. 5116. Notification of changes to Uniform Code of 
       Military Justice or Manual for Courts Martial relating to 
       covered misconduct

       ``Beginning on March 30, 2026, and annually thereafter, the 
     Commandant shall notify the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
     and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives with respect to each of the following:
       ``(1) Whether the Uniform Code of Military Justice (chapter 
     47 of title 10) has been amended--
       ``(A) to add any sex-related offense as a new article; or
       ``(B) to remove an article relating to covered misconduct 
     described in any of paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 
     301.
       ``(2) Whether the Manual for Courts Martial has been 
     modified--
       ``(A) to add any sex-related offense as an offense 
     described under an article of the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice; or
       ``(B) to remove as an offense described under an article of 
     the Uniform Code of Military Justice covered misconduct 
     described in any of paragraphs (1) through (7) of section 
     301.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 51 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

``5116. Notification of changes to Uniform Code of Military Justice Or 
              Manual for Courts Martial relating to covered 
              misconduct.''.

     SEC. 412. COMPLAINTS OF RETALIATION BY VICTIMS OF SEXUAL 
                   ASSAULT OR SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND RELATED 
                   PERSONS.

       Section 1562a of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)--
       (A) by striking ``The Secretary of Defense shall'' and 
     inserting the following:
       ``(1) In general.--The Secretary of Defense shall''; and
       (B) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(2) Coast guard.--The Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating shall designate the 
     Commandant of the Coast Guard to be responsible for carrying 
     out the requirements of this section with respect to members 
     of the Coast Guard when the Coast Guard is not operating as a 
     service in the Navy.'';
       (2) in subsection (b)--
       (A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1) by inserting 
     ``and the Commandant of the Coast Guard'' after 
     ``Secretary'';
       (B) in paragraph (8) by inserting before the period at the 
     end ``or with respect to the Coast Guard, the component 
     designated by the Commandant of the Coast Guard''; and
       (C) in paragraph (4) by striking ``Department of Defense''; 
     and
       (3) in subsection (c)(2)--
       (A) in subparagraph (A) by inserting ``, the Inspector 
     General of the Department of Homeland Security,'' before ``or 
     any other inspector general'';
       (B) in subparagraph (D) by striking ``military'' and 
     inserting ``armed force''; and
       (C) in subparagraph (E) by inserting ``or department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating when not operating as a 
     service in the Navy for members of the Coast Guard'' after 
     ``Department of Defense''.

     SEC. 413. DEVELOPMENT OF POLICIES ON MILITARY PROTECTIVE 
                   ORDERS.

       (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     the enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall issue updated 
     policies of the Coast Guard relating to military protective 
     orders that are consistent with the law and policies of the 
     Department of Defense.
       (2) Elements.--The policies developed under paragraph (1) 
     shall require--
       (A) that any denial of a request for a military protective 
     order shall include a written explanation for the denial, 
     which shall be--
       (i) forwarded to the next flag officer in the chain of 
     command of the commanding officer or other approving 
     authority who denied the request; and
       (ii) provided to the member who submitted the request; and
       (B) the recusal of an approving authority from 
     participating in the granting or denying of a military 
     protective order, if such authority was, at any time--
       (i) the subject of a complaint of any form of assault, 
     harassment, or retaliation filed by the member requesting the 
     military protective order or the member who is the subject of 
     the military protective order; or
       (ii) associated with the member requesting the military 
     protective order or the member who is the subject of the 
     military protective order in a manner that presents as an 
     actual or apparent conflict of interest.
       (3) Notification requirement.--The Commandant shall develop 
     a policy to ensure that sexual assault response coordinators, 
     victim advocates, and other appropriate personnel shall 
     inform victims of the process by which the victim may request 
     an expedited transfer, a no-contact order, or a military or 
     civilian protective order.

     SEC. 414. COAST GUARD IMPLEMENTATION OF INDEPENDENT REVIEW 
                   COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS ON ADDRESSING SEXUAL 
                   ASSAULT AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT IN THE MILITARY.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall review the report 
     of the Independent Review Commission titled ``Hard Truths and 
     the Duty to Change: Recommendations from the Independent 
     Review Commission on Sexual Assault in the Military'' 
     referred to in the memorandum of the Department of Defense 
     titled ``Memorandum for Senior Pentagon Leadership Commanders 
     of the Combatant Commands Defense Agency and DoD Field 
     Activity Directors'', dated September 22, 2021, (relating to 
     commencing Department of Defense actions and implementation 
     of the recommendations of the Independent Review Commission 
     to address sexual assault and sexual harassment in the 
     military).
       (b) Strategy and Action Plan.--On completion of the review 
     required under subsection (a), and not later than 1 year 
     after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall 
     submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a strategy and action plan that--
       (1)(A) identifies any recommendation set forth in the 
     report by the Independent Review Commission described in 
     subsection (a) that addresses a matter that is not within the 
     jurisdiction of the Coast Guard, does not apply to the Coast 
     Guard, or otherwise would not be beneficial to members of the 
     Coast Guard, as determined by the Commandant; and
       (B) includes a brief rationale for such determination; and
       (2) with respect to each recommendation set forth in such 
     report that is not identified under paragraph (1), includes--
       (A)(i) a detailed action plan for implementation of the 
     recommendation;
       (ii) a description of changes the Commandant will make to 
     associated Coast Guard policies so as to enable the 
     implementation of the recommendation;
       (iii) an estimated timeline for implementation of the 
     recommendation;
       (iv) the estimated cost of the implementation;
       (v) legislative proposals for such implementation, as 
     appropriate; and
       (vi) any other information the Commandant considers 
     appropriate; or
       (B) in the case of such a recommendation that the 
     Commandant is unable to implement, an explanation of the 
     reason the recommendation cannot be implemented.
       (c) Briefing.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, and every

[[Page S1556]]

     180 days thereafter through 2028, the Commandant shall 
     provide the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives with a briefing on the status of the 
     implementation of this section and any modification to the 
     strategy and plan submitted under subsection (b).

     SEC. 415. POLICY RELATING TO CARE AND SUPPORT OF VICTIMS OF 
                   COVERED MISCONDUCT.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall issue Coast Guard 
     policy relating to the care and support of members of the 
     Coast Guard who are alleged victims covered misconduct.
       (b) Elements.--The policy required by subsection (a) shall 
     require, to the maximum extent practicable, that--
       (1) a member of the Coast Guard who is an alleged victim of 
     covered misconduct and discloses such covered misconduct to 
     the appropriate individual of the Coast Guard responsible for 
     providing victim care and support--
       (A) shall receive care and support from such individual; 
     and
       (B) such individual shall not deny or unreasonably delay 
     providing care and support; and
       (2) in the case of such an alleged victim to whom care and 
     support cannot be provided by the appropriate individual 
     contacted by the alleged victim based on programmatic 
     eligibility criteria or any other reason that affects the 
     ability of such appropriate individual to provide care and 
     support (such as being stationed at a remote unit or serving 
     on a vessel currently underway) the alleged victim shall 
     receive, with the permission of the alleged victim--
       (A) an in-person introduction to appropriate service 
     providers, for which the alleged victim is physically 
     present, which shall occur at the discretion of the alleged 
     victim; and
       (B) access to follow-up services from the appropriate 1 or 
     more service providers.
       (c) Applicability.--The policy issued under subsection (a) 
     shall apply to--
       (1) all Coast Guard personnel responsible for the care and 
     support of victims of covered misconduct; and
       (2) any other Coast Guard personnel the Commandant 
     considers appropriate.
       (d) Revision of Policy Relating to Domestic Abuse.--Not 
     later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, 
     the Commandant shall issue or revise any Coast Guard policy 
     or process relating to domestic abuse so as to define the 
     term ``intimate partner'' to have the meaning given such term 
     in section 930 of title 10, United States Code.
       (e) Training.--
       (1) In general.--All Coast Guard personnel responsible for 
     the care and support of members of the Coast Guard who are 
     alleged victims of covered misconduct shall receive training 
     in accordance with professional standards of practice to 
     ensure that such alleged victims receive adequate care that 
     is consistent with the policy issued under subsection (a).
       (2) Elements.--The training required by paragraph (1)--
       (A) shall include--
       (i) instructions on specific procedures for implementing 
     the policy issued under subsection (a); and
       (ii) information on resources and personnel critical for 
     the implementation of such policy; and
       (B) to the maximum extent practicable, shall be provided in 
     person.
       (f) Covered Misconduct.--In this section, the term 
     ``covered misconduct'' shall have the meaning given such term 
     in section 2519 of title 14, United States Code (as added by 
     this Act).

     SEC. 416. ESTABLISHMENT OF SPECIAL VICTIM CAPABILITIES TO 
                   RESPOND TO ALLEGATIONS OF CERTAIN SPECIAL 
                   VICTIM OFFENSES.

       (a) In General.--Section 573 of the National Defense 
     Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 (10 U.S.C. 1561 note) 
     is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)--
       (A) by inserting ``or the Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating when not operating as a 
     service in the Navy'' after ``Secretary of Defense''; and
       (B) by striking ``Secretary of each military department'' 
     and inserting ``Secretary concerned'';
       (2) in subsection (b) by striking ``or Air Force Office of 
     Special Investigations'' and inserting ``, Air Force Office 
     of Special Investigations, or Coast Guard Investigative 
     Services'';
       (3) in subsection (c) by inserting ``or the Secretary of 
     the department in which the Coast Guard is operating when not 
     operating as a service in the Navy'' after ``Secretary of 
     Defense'';
       (4) in subsection (d)--
       (A) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) by inserting ``or the Commandant of the Coast Guard'' 
     after ``Secretary of a military department''; and
       (ii) by inserting ``or the Coast Guard'' after ``within the 
     military department'';
       (B) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``or the Coast Guard'' 
     after ``within a military department''; and
       (5) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(h) Time for Establishment for Coast Guard.--Not later 
     than 120 days after the date of enactment of the Coast Guard 
     Authorization Act of 2025, the Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating, the Secretary shall 
     submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report containing all the items described 
     in subsections (e) and (f) as applied to the Coast Guard.''.
       (b) Briefing.--Not later than 270 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall provide the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives with a briefing on the 
     Commandant's assessment and implementation, as appropriate, 
     of the recommendations included in the Center for Naval 
     Analyses report titled ``Assessing the USCG's Special 
     Victims' Counsel Program'', issued in June 2024, including--
       (1) the implementation status of each adopted 
     recommendation, as appropriate;
       (2) for each adopted recommendation, a description of 
     actions taken to implement such recommendation;
       (3) in the case of an adopted recommendation that has not 
     been fully implemented--
       (A) a description of actions taken or planned to address 
     such recommendation;
       (B) an estimated completion date; and
       (C) a description of the milestones necessary to complete 
     the recommendation;
       (4) a description of any recommendation that will not be 
     adopted and an explanation of the reason the recommendation 
     will not be adopted;
       (5) a description of the metrics and milestones used to 
     ensure completion and effectiveness of each adopted 
     recommendation;
       (6) a description of any additional actions the Commandant 
     is taking to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the 
     Special Victims' Counsel program of the Coast Guard;
       (7) any legislative change proposal necessary to implement 
     the adopted recommendations; and
       (8) an overview of any funding or resource necessary to 
     implement each adopted recommendation in a timely and 
     effective manner, including a list of personnel needed for 
     such implementation.

     SEC. 417. MEMBERS ASSERTING POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER, 
                   SEXUAL ASSAULT, OR TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY.

       Section 2516 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)--
       (A) in paragraph (1)--
       (i) by striking ``or has been sexually assaulted during the 
     preceding 2-year period''; and
       (ii) by striking ``or based on such sexual assault, the 
     influence of'' and inserting ``the signs and symptoms of 
     either'';
       (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (4) as 
     paragraphs (3) through (5), respectively;
       (C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
       ``(2) Mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder.--A member 
     of the Coast Guard who has been sexually assaulted during the 
     preceding 5-year period and who alleges, based on such sexual 
     assault, the signs and symptoms of a diagnosable mental, 
     behavioral, or emotional disorder described within the most 
     recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of 
     Mental Disorders published by the American Psychiatric 
     Association--
       ``(A) is provided the opportunity to request a medical 
     examination to clinically evaluate such signs and symptoms; 
     and
       ``(B) receives such a medical examination to evaluate a 
     diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain 
     injury, or diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional 
     disorder described within the most recent edition of the 
     Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 
     published by the American Psychiatric Association.'';
       (D) in paragraph (3) by striking ``paragraph (1)'' and 
     inserting ``this subsection''; and
       (E) in paragraph (4), as so redesignated--
       (i) by inserting ``or a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or 
     emotional disorder'' before ``under this subsection'';
       (ii) by inserting ``performed by'' after ``shall be''; and
       (iii) by striking subparagraphs (A) and (B) and inserting 
     the following:
       ``(A) a board-certified psychiatrist;
       ``(B) a licensed doctorate-level psychologist;
       ``(C) any other appropriate licensed or certified 
     healthcare professional designated by the Commandant; or
       ``(D) a psychiatry resident or board-eligible psychologist 
     who--
       ``(i) has completed a 1-year internship or residency; and
       ``(ii) is under the close supervision of a board-certified 
     psychiatrist or licensed doctorate-level psychologist.'';
       (2) in subsection (b) by inserting ``or a diagnosable 
     mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder'' after ``traumatic 
     brain injury''; and
       (3) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(e) Notification of Right to Request Medical 
     Examination.--
       ``(1) In general.--Any member of the Coast Guard who 
     receives a notice of involuntary administrative separation 
     shall be advised at the time of such notice of the right of 
     the member to request a medical examination under subsection 
     (a) if any condition described in such subsection applies to 
     the member.
       ``(2) Policy.--The Commandant shall--

[[Page S1557]]

       ``(A) develop and issue a clear policy for carrying out the 
     notification required under paragraph (1) with respect to any 
     member of the Coast Guard described in that paragraph who has 
     made an unrestricted report of sexual assault; and
       ``(B) provide information on such policy to sexual assault 
     response coordinators of the Coast Guard for the purpose of 
     ensuring that such policy is communicated to members of the 
     Coast Guard who may be eligible for a medical examination 
     under this section.''.

     SEC. 418. PARTICIPATION IN CATCH A SERIAL OFFENDER PROGRAM.

       (a) In General.--The Secretary of the department in which 
     the Coast Guard is operating when not operating as a service 
     in the Navy, acting through the Commandant, shall ensure the 
     participation of the Coast Guard in the Catch a Serial 
     Offender program (referred to in this section as the ``CATCH 
     program'') of the Department of Defense established in 
     accordance with section 543 of the Carl Levin and Howard P. 
     ``Buck'' McKeon National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 
     Year 2015 (Public Law 113-291).
       (b) Memorandum of Understanding.--Not later than 60 days 
     after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of 
     the department in which the Coast Guard is operating and the 
     Secretary of Defense shall finalize a memorandum of agreement 
     to facilitate Coast Guard access to and participation in the 
     CATCH program.

     SEC. 419. ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY RELATING TO 
                   ALLEGATIONS OF MISCONDUCT AGAINST SENIOR 
                   LEADERS.

       (a) In General.--Subchapter I of chapter 25 of title 14, 
     United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end 
     the following:

     ``Sec. 2520. Accountability and transparency relating to 
       allegations of misconduct against senior leaders

       ``(a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, the 
     Secretary shall establish a policy to improve oversight, 
     investigations, accountability, and public transparency 
     regarding alleged misconduct of senior leaders of the Coast 
     Guard.
       ``(b) Elements.--The policy required by subsection (a)--
       ``(1) shall require that--
       ``(A) any allegation of alleged misconduct made against a 
     senior leader of the Coast Guard shall be reported to the 
     Office of the Inspector General of the department in which 
     the Coast Guard is operating not later than 72 hours after 
     the allegation is reported to the Coast Guard or the 
     department in which the Coast Guard is operating; and
       ``(B) the Inspector General of the department in which the 
     Coast Guard is operating shall notify the head of the Coast 
     Guard office in which the senior leader is serving with 
     respect to the receipt of such allegation, or, in a case 
     where the senior leader is the head of such Coast Guard 
     office, the next in the chain of command, as appropriate, 
     except in a case in which the Inspector General determines 
     that such notification would risk impairing an ongoing 
     investigation, would unnecessarily compromise the anonymity 
     of the individual making the allegation, or would otherwise 
     be inappropriate; and
       ``(2) to the extent practicable, shall be consistent with 
     Department of Defense directives, including Department of 
     Defense Directive 5505.06.
       ``(c) First Right to Exclusive Investigation.--The 
     Inspector General of the department in which the Coast Guard 
     is operating--
       ``(1) shall have the first right to investigate an 
     allegation described in subsection (b)(1)(A); and
       ``(2) in cases with concurrent jurisdiction involving an 
     allegation described in subsection (b)(1)(A), may investigate 
     such an allegation to the exclusion of any other Coast Guard 
     criminal or administrative investigation if the Inspector 
     General determines that an exclusive investigation is 
     necessary to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
       ``(d) Public Availability and Broad Dissemination.--The 
     policy established under subsection (a) shall be made 
     available to the public and incorporated into training and 
     curricula across the Coast Guard at all levels to ensure 
     broad understanding of the policy among members and personnel 
     of the Coast Guard.
       ``(e) Definitions.--In this section:
       ``(1) Alleged misconduct.--The term `alleged misconduct'--
       ``(A) means a credible allegation that, if proven, would 
     constitute a violation of--
       ``(i) a provision of criminal law, including the Uniform 
     Code of Military Justice (chapter 47 of title 10); or
       ``(ii) a recognized standard, such as the Department of 
     Defense Joint Ethics Regulation or other Federal regulation, 
     including any other Department of Defense regulation and any 
     Department of Homeland Security regulation; or
       ``(B) could reasonably be expected to be of significance to 
     the Secretary or the Inspector General of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating, particularly in a case in 
     which there is an element of misuse of position or of 
     unauthorized personal benefit to the senior official, a 
     family member, or an associate.
       ``(2) Senior leader of the coast guard.--The term `senior 
     leader of the Coast Guard' means--
       ``(A) an active duty, retired, or reserve officer of the 
     Coast Guard in the grade of O-7 or higher;
       ``(B) an officer of the Coast Guard selected for promotion 
     to the grade of O-7;
       ``(C) a current or former civilian member of the Senior 
     Executive Service employed by the Coast Guard; or
       ``(D) any civilian member of the Coast Guard whose position 
     is deemed equivalent to that of a member of the Senior 
     Executive Service, as determined by the Office of the 
     Inspector General of the department in which the Coast Guard 
     is operating, in concurrence with the Secretary acting 
     through the Commandant.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is further amended by inserting 
     after the item relating to section 2519 (as added by this 
     Act) the following:

``2520. Accountability and transparency relating to allegations of 
              misconduct against senior leaders.''.

     SEC. 420. CONFIDENTIAL REPORTING OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT.

       Section 1561b of title 10, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subsection (a)--
       (A) by inserting ``and the Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating when not operating as a 
     service in the Navy'' after ``Secretary of Defense''; and
       (B) by inserting ``or the Commandant'' after ``Secretary of 
     a military department'';
       (2) in subsection (c)--
       (A) by inserting ``or the Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating when not operating as a 
     service in the Navy'' after ``Secretary of Defense''; and
       (B) in paragraph (1) by inserting ``departments or the 
     Commandant'' after ``Secretaries of the military''; and
       (3) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(e) Reports for the Coast Guard.--
       ``(1) In general.--Not later than April 30, 2025, and April 
     30 every 2 years thereafter, the Secretary of the department 
     in which the Coast Guard is operating shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a report containing data on 
     the complaints of sexual harassment alleged pursuant to the 
     process under subsection (a) during the previous 2 calendar 
     years.
       ``(2) Personally identifiable information.--Any data on 
     complaints described in paragraph (1) shall not contain any 
     personally identifiable information.''.

     SEC. 421. REPORT ON POLICY ON WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTIONS.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committees on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and 
     Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and 
     the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the 
     House of Representatives a report on the policy of the Coast 
     Guard on whistleblower protections.
       (b) Elements.--The report required by subsection (a) shall 
     include the following:
       (1) A discussion of the policy of the Coast Guard as of the 
     date of enactment of this Act with respect to--
       (A) whistleblower protections;
       (B) accountability measures for reprisal against 
     whistleblowers;
       (C) the applicable professional standards and potential 
     types of support provided to whistleblowers by members of the 
     Coast Guard personnel, such as the members in the Coast Guard 
     Investigative Service; and
       (D) the content and frequency of training provided to 
     members of the Coast Guard on active duty, members of the 
     Coast Guard Reserve, and civilian personnel of the Coast 
     Guard with respect to the applicable professional standards 
     and potential types of support offered to whistleblowers.
       (2) A description of the responsibilities of commanders and 
     equivalent civilian supervisors with respect to whistleblower 
     complaints and measures used by the Coast Guard to ensure 
     compliance with such responsibilities, such as--
       (A) the mechanisms to ensure that--
       (i) any such commander complies with section 1034 of title 
     10, United States Code, including subsection (a)(1) of that 
     section;
       (ii) any such equivalent civilian supervisor complies with 
     section 2302 of title 5, United States Code; and
       (iii) any such commander or supervisor protects the 
     constitutional right of whistleblowers to speak with Members 
     of Congress;
       (B) actions to be taken against any a commander or 
     equivalent civilian supervisor who fails to act on a 
     whistleblower complaint or improperly interferes with a 
     whistleblower after a complaint is filed or during the 
     preparation of a complaint;
       (C) the role of Coast Guard attorneys in ensuring that such 
     commanders comply with responsibilities under section 1034 of 
     title 10, United States Code; and
       (D) the role of Coast Guard civilian attorneys and 
     administrative law judges in ensuring that such civilian 
     supervisors comply with responsibilities under section 2302 
     of title 5, United States Code.
       (3) A discussion of the availability of Coast Guard staff, 
     including civilian staff, assigned to providing, in 
     accordance with professional standards or practice, 
     behavioral health care to whistleblowers, including--
       (A) the number and type of such staff;
       (B) a description of the specific care responsibilities of 
     such staff;

[[Page S1558]]

       (C) an identification of any limitation existing as of the 
     date of enactment of this Act to the provision of such care;
       (D) a description of any plan to increase capacity of such 
     staff to provide such care, as applicable; and
       (E) a description of any additional resources necessary to 
     provide such care.
       (4) An assessment of the manner in which the policies 
     discussed in paragraph (1), the responsibilities of 
     commanders and civilian supervisors described in paragraph 
     (2), and the availability of Coast Guard staff as discussed 
     in paragraph (3) apply specifically to cadets and leadership 
     at the Coast Guard Academy.
       (5) Recommendations (including, as appropriate, proposed 
     legislative changes and a plan to publish in the Federal 
     Register not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
     of this Act a request for information seeking public comment 
     and recommendations) of the Commandant regarding manners in 
     which Coast Guard policies and procedures may be 
     strengthened--
       (A) to prevent whistleblower discrimination and harassment;
       (B) to better enforce prohibitions on retaliation, 
     including reprisal, restriction, ostracism, and maltreatment, 
     set forth in section 1034 of title 10, United States Code, 
     and section 2302 of title 5, United States Code; and
       (C) to hold commanding officers and civilian supervisors 
     accountable for enforcing and complying with prohibitions on 
     any form of retaliation described in such section.

     SEC. 422. REVIEW AND MODIFICATION OF COAST GUARD ACADEMY 
                   POLICY ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND SEXUAL 
                   VIOLENCE.

       (a) In General.--The Superintendent of the Coast Guard 
     Academy (referred to in this section as the 
     ``Superintendent'') shall--
       (1) not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment 
     of this Act, commence a review of the Coast Guard Academy 
     policy on sexual harassment and sexual violence established 
     in accordance with section 1902 of title 14, United States 
     Code, that includes an evaluation as to whether any long-
     standing Coast Guard Academy tradition, system, process, or 
     internal policy impedes the implementation of necessary 
     evidence-informed best practices followed by other military 
     service academies in prevention, response, and recovery 
     relating to sexual harassment and sexual violence; and
       (2) not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment 
     of this Act--
       (A) complete such review; and
       (B) modify such policy in accordance with subsection (b).
       (b) Modifications to Policy.--In modifying the Coast Guard 
     Academy policy on sexual harassment and sexual violence 
     referred to in subsection (a), the Superintendent shall 
     ensure that such policy includes the following:
       (1) Each matter required to be specified by section 1902(b) 
     of title 14, United States Code.
       (2) Updates to achieve compliance with chapter 47 of title 
     10, United States Code (Uniform Code of Military Justice).
       (3) A description of the roles and responsibilities of 
     staff of the Coast Guard Academy Sexual Assault Prevention, 
     Response, and Recovery program, including--
       (A) the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator;
       (B) the Victim Advocate Program Specialist;
       (C) the Volunteer Victim Advocate; and
       (D) the Primary Prevention Specialist, as established under 
     subsection (c).
       (4) A description of the role of the Coast Guard 
     Investigative Service with respect to sexual harassment and 
     sexual violence prevention, response, and recovery at the 
     Coast Guard Academy.
       (5) A description of the role of support staff at the Coast 
     Guard Academy, including chaplains, with respect to sexual 
     harassment and sexual violence prevention, response, and 
     recovery.
       (6) Measures to promote awareness of dating violence.
       (7) A delineation of the relationship between--
       (A) cadet advocacy groups organized for the prevention of, 
     response to, and recovery from sexual harassment and sexual 
     violence, including Cadets Against Sexual Assault; and
       (B) the staff of the Coast Guard Academy Sexual Assault 
     Prevention, Response, and Recovery program.
       (8) A provision that requires cadets and Coast Guard 
     Academy personnel to participate in not fewer than one in-
     person training each academic year on the prevention of, 
     responses to, and resources relating to incidents of sexual 
     harassment and sexual violence, to be provided by the staff 
     of the Coast Guard Academy Sexual Assault Prevention, 
     Response, and Recovery program.
       (9) The establishment, revision, or expansion, as 
     necessary, of an anti-retaliation Superintendent's 
     Instruction for cadets who--
       (A) report incidents of sexual harassment or sexual 
     violence;
       (B) participate in cadet advocacy groups that advocate for 
     the prevention of, response to, and recovery from sexual 
     harassment and sexual violence; or
       (C) seek assistance from a company officer, company senior 
     enlisted leader, athletic coach, or other Coast Guard Academy 
     staff member with respect to a mental health or other medical 
     emergency.
       (10) A provision that explains the purpose of and process 
     for issuance of a no-contact order at the Coast Guard 
     Academy, including a description of the manner in which such 
     an order shall be enforced.
       (11) A provision that explains the purpose of and process 
     for issuance of a military protective order at the Coast 
     Guard Academy, including a description of--
       (A) the manner in which such an order shall be enforced; 
     and
       (B) the associated requirement to notify the National 
     Criminal Information Center of the issuance of such an order.
       (c) Primary Prevention Specialist.--Not later than 180 days 
     after the date of the enactment of this Act, the 
     Superintendent shall hire a Primary Prevention Specialist, to 
     be located and serve at the Coast Guard Academy.
       (d) Temporary Leave of Absence To Receive Medical Services 
     and Mental Health and Related Support Services.--The 
     Superintendent shall ensure that the Academy's policy 
     regarding a cadet who has made a restricted or unrestricted 
     report of sexual harassment to request a leave of absence 
     from the Coast Guard Academy is consistent with other 
     military service academies.

     SEC. 423. COAST GUARD AND COAST GUARD ACADEMY ACCESS TO 
                   DEFENSE SEXUAL ASSAULT INCIDENT DATABASE.

       (a) Memorandum of Understanding.--Not later than 180 days 
     after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant, in 
     consultation with the Secretary of Defense, shall enter into 
     a memorandum of understanding to enable the criminal offender 
     case management and analytics database of the Coast Guard to 
     have system interface access with the Defense Sexual Assault 
     Incident Database (referred to in this section as the 
     ``Database'') established by section 563 of the Duncan Hunter 
     National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2009 (10 
     U.S.C. 1561 note).
       (b) Plan.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 60 days after entering into 
     the memorandum of understanding required under subsection 
     (a), the Commandant, in consultation with the Secretary of 
     Defense, shall submit to the appropriate committees of 
     Congress a plan to carry out the terms of such memorandum.
       (2) Elements.--The plan required under paragraph (1) shall 
     include the following:
       (A) Measures to ensure that authorized staff of the Coast 
     Guard have system interface access to the Database, and a 
     description of any barrier to such access.
       (B) Measures to ensure that authorized staff of the Coast 
     Guard Academy have system interface access to the Database, 
     and a description of any barrier to such access that is 
     unique to the Coast Guard Academy.
       (C) Measures to facilitate formal or informal communication 
     between the Coast Guard and the Sexual Assault Prevention and 
     Response Office of the Department of Defense, or any other 
     relevant Department of Defense component, to identify or seek 
     a resolution to barriers to Database access.
       (D) A description of the steps, measures, and improvements 
     necessary to remove any barrier encountered by staff of the 
     Coast Guard or the Coast Guard Academy in accessing the 
     Database, including any failure of system interface access 
     necessitating manual entry of investigative data.
       (E) An assessment of the technical challenges, timeframes, 
     and costs associated with providing authorized staff of the 
     Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Academy with system interface 
     access for the Database that is substantially similar to such 
     system interface access possessed by other branches of the 
     Armed Forces.
       (3) Appropriate committees of congress defined.--In this 
     subsection, the term ``appropriate committees of Congress'' 
     means--
       (A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation 
     and the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate; and
       (B) the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and 
     the Committee on Armed Services of the House of 
     Representatives.

     SEC. 424. DIRECTOR OF COAST GUARD INVESTIGATIVE SERVICE.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 3 of title 14, United States Code, 
     is amended by adding at the end the following:

     ``Sec. 325. Director of Coast Guard Investigative Service

       ``(a) In General.--There shall be a Director of the Coast 
     Guard Investigative Service.
       ``(b) Chain of Command.--The Director of the Coast Guard 
     Investigative Service shall report directly to and be under 
     the general supervision of the Commandant, acting through the 
     Vice Commandant of the Coast Guard.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for Chapter 3 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting after 
     the item relating to section 324 the following:

``325. Director of Coast Guard Investigative Service.''.

     SEC. 425. MODIFICATIONS AND REVISIONS RELATING TO REOPENING 
                   RETIRED GRADE DETERMINATIONS.

       (a) In General.--Section 2501(d)(2) of title 14, United 
     States Code, is amended--
       (1) in subparagraph (B) by inserting ``a'' before 
     ``competent authority'';
       (2) by redesignating subparagraphs (C) through (E) as 
     subparagraphs (F) through (H), respectively; and
       (3) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following:
       ``(C) substantial evidence comes to light that, during the 
     commissioned service of the officer, the officer failed to 
     carry out applicable laws, with an intent to deceive or 
     defraud;

[[Page S1559]]

       ``(D) substantial evidence comes to light after the 
     retirement that the officer committed rape or sexual assault, 
     as described in sections 920(a) and 920(b) of title 10 
     (articles 120(a) and 120(b) of the Uniform Code of Military 
     Justice) at any time during the commissioned service of the 
     officer;
       ``(E) substantial evidence comes to light after the 
     retirement that the commissioned officer knew of and failed 
     to report through proper channels, in accordance with 
     existing law at the time of the alleged incident, any known 
     instances of sexual assault by a member of the Coast Guard 
     under the command of the officer during the officer's 
     service;''.
       (b) Issuance and Revision of Regulations Relating to Good 
     Cause To Reopen Retired Grade Determinations.--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 or revise, as applicable, and at the 
     discretion of the Secretary consistent with this section, 
     regulations of the Coast Guard to do the following:
       (1) Define what constitutes good cause to reopen a retired 
     grade determination referred to in subparagraph (H) of 
     section 2501(d)(2) of title 14, United States Code, as 
     redesignated by subsection (a), to ensure that the following 
     shall be considered good cause for such a reopening:
       (A) Circumstances that constitute a failure to carry out 
     applicable laws regarding a report of sexual assault with an 
     intent to deceive by a commissioned officer, that relate to a 
     response made to a report of sexual assault, during the 
     commissioned service of the officer.
       (B) Substantial evidence of sexual assault by the 
     commissioned officer concerned, at any time during the 
     commissioned service of such officer, or such evidence that 
     was not considered by the Coast Guard in a manner consistent 
     with law.
       (2) Identify the standard for making, and the evidentiary 
     showing required to support, an adverse determination on the 
     retired grade of a commissioned officer.
       (c) Revision of Limitations on Reopening Retired Grade 
     Determinations.--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 revise applicable 
     guidance in section K.10 of chapter 3 of Commandant 
     Instruction 1000.4A to remove any restriction that limits the 
     ability to reopen the retired grade of a commissioned officer 
     based on--
       (1) whether new evidence is discovered contemporaneously 
     with or within a short time period after the date of 
     retirement of the officer concerned; and
       (2) whether the misconduct concerned was not discoverable 
     through due diligence.
       (d) Savings Clause.--No provision of this section or the 
     amendments made by this section shall be construed to permit 
     a review of conduct that was not in violation of law or 
     policy at the time of the alleged conduct.

     SEC. 426. INCLUSION AND COMMAND REVIEW OF INFORMATION ON 
                   COVERED MISCONDUCT IN PERSONNEL SERVICE 
                   RECORDS.

       (a) In General.--Chapter 25 of title 14, United States 
     Code, is amended--
       (1) in subchapter II, by redesignating section 2521 as 
     section 2531; and
       (2) in subchapter I, as amended by this Act, by adding at 
     the end the following:

     ``Sec. 2521. Inclusion and command review of information on 
       covered misconduct in personnel service records

       ``(a) Information on Reports on Covered Misconduct.--
       ``(1) In general.--If a complaint of covered misconduct is 
     made against a member of the Coast Guard and the member is 
     convicted by court-martial or receives nonjudicial punishment 
     or punitive administrative action for such covered 
     misconduct, a notation to that effect shall be placed in the 
     personnel service record of the member, regardless of the 
     grade of the member.
       ``(2) Purpose.--The purpose of the inclusion of information 
     in personnel service records under paragraph (1) is to alert 
     supervisors and commanders to any member of their command who 
     has received a court-martial conviction, nonjudicial 
     punishment, or punitive administrative action for covered 
     misconduct in order--
       ``(A) to reduce the likelihood that repeat offenses will 
     escape the notice of supervisors and commanders; and
       ``(B) to help inform commissioning or promotability of the 
     member;
       ``(3) Limitation on placement.--A notation under paragraph 
     (1) may not be placed in the restricted section of the 
     personnel service record of a member.
       ``(4) Construction.--Nothing in this subsection may be 
     construed to prohibit or limit the capacity of a member of 
     the Coast Guard to challenge or appeal the placement of a 
     notation, or location of placement of a notation, in the 
     personnel service record of the member in accordance with 
     procedures otherwise applicable to such challenges or 
     appeals.
       ``(b) Command Review of History of Covered Misconduct.--
       ``(1) In general.--Under policy to be prescribed by the 
     Secretary, the commanding officer of a unit or facility to 
     which a covered member is assigned or transferred shall 
     review the history of covered misconduct as documented in the 
     personnel service record of a covered member in order to 
     become familiar with such history of the covered member.
       ``(2) Covered member defined.--In this subsection, the term 
     `covered member' means a member of the Coast Guard who, at 
     the time of assignment or transfer as described in paragraph 
     (1), has a history of 1 or more covered misconduct offenses 
     as documented in the personnel service record of such member 
     or such other records or files as the Commandant shall 
     specify in the policy prescribed under subparagraph (A).
       ``(c) Review of Personnel Service Record to Determine 
     Suitability for Civilian Employment.--Under policy to be 
     prescribed by the Secretary, the Commandant shall establish 
     procedures that are consistent with the law, policies, and 
     practices of the Department of Defense in effect on the date 
     of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025 to 
     consider and review the personnel service record of a former 
     member of the Armed Forces to determine the suitability of 
     the individual for civilian employment in the Coast Guard.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 25 of 
     title 14, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) by striking the item relating to section 2521 and 
     inserting the following:

``2531. Advisory Board on Women in the Coast Guard.''; and
       (2) by inserting after the item relating to section 2520 
     (as added by this Act) the following:

``2521. Inclusion and command review of information on covered 
              misconduct in personnel service records.''.

     SEC. 427. FLAG OFFICER REVIEW OF, AND CONCURRENCE IN, 
                   SEPARATION OF MEMBERS WHO HAVE REPORTED SEXUAL 
                   MISCONDUCT.

       (a) Policy To Require Review of Certain Proposed 
     Involuntary Separations.--Not later than 120 days after the 
     date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall 
     establish, with respect to any proposed involuntary 
     separation under chapter 59 of title 10, United States Code, 
     a Coast Guard policy to review the circumstances of, and 
     grounds for, such a proposed involuntary separation of any 
     member of the Coast Guard who--
       (1) made a restricted or unrestricted report of covered 
     misconduct (as such term is defined in section 2519 of title 
     14, United States Code);
       (2) within 2 years after making such a report, is 
     recommended for involuntary separation from the Coast Guard; 
     and
       (3) requests the review on the grounds that the member 
     believes the recommendation for involuntary separation from 
     the Coast Guard was initiated in retaliation for making the 
     report.
       (b) Recusal.--
       (1) In general.--The policy established under subsection 
     (a) shall set forth a process for the recusal of commanding 
     officers and the flag officer described in subsection (c)(2) 
     from making initial or subsequent decisions on proposed 
     separations or from reviewing proposed separations.
       (2) Criteria.--The recusal process established under 
     paragraph (1) shall specify criteria for recusal, including 
     mandatory recusal from making a decision on a proposed 
     separation, and from reviewing a proposed separation, if the 
     commanding officer or the flag officer described in 
     subsection (c)(2) was, at any time--
       (A) the subject of a complaint of any form of assault, 
     harassment, or retaliation, filed by the member of the Coast 
     Guard described in subsection (a) who is the subject of a 
     proposed involuntary separation or whose proposed separation 
     is under review; or
       (B) associated with the individual suspected or accused of 
     perpetrating the incident of covered misconduct reported by 
     such member.
       (c) Concurrence of Flag Officer Required.--
       (1) In general.--The policy established under subsection 
     (a) shall require the concurrence of the flag officer 
     described in paragraph (2) in order to separate the member of 
     the Coast Guard described in such subsection.
       (2) Flag officer described.--
       (A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph (B), 
     the flag officer described in this paragraph is--
       (i) the Deputy Commandant for Mission Support or the 
     successor Vice Admiral that oversees personnel policy; or
       (ii) a designee of the Deputy Commandant for Mission 
     Support (or the successor Vice Admiral that oversees 
     personnel policy) who is in a grade not lower than O-7.
       (B) Chain of command exception.--In the case of a member of 
     the Coast Guard described in subsection (a) who is in the 
     immediate chain of command of the Deputy Commandant for 
     Mission Support or the successor Vice Admiral that oversees 
     personnel policy or the designee of the Deputy Commandant for 
     Mission Support or the successor Vice Admiral that oversees 
     personnel policy, the flag officer described in this 
     paragraph is a flag officer outside the chain of command of 
     such member, as determined by the Commandant consistent with 
     the policy established under subsection (a).
       (d) Notification Required.--Any member of the Coast Guard 
     who has made a report of covered misconduct and who receives 
     a proposal for involuntary separation shall be notified at 
     the time of such proposal of the right of the member to a 
     review under this section.

[[Page S1560]]

  


     SEC. 428. EXPEDITED TRANSFER IN CASES OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT OR 
                   DOMESTIC VIOLENCE.

       (a) Expedited Transfer Policy Update.--Not later than 180 
     days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant 
     shall update Coast Guard policy as necessary to implement--
       (1) an expedited transfer process for covered individuals 
     consistent with--
       (A) Department of Defense policy on expedited transfers of 
     victims of sexual assault or domestic violence in place on 
     the date of enactment of this Act; and
       (B) subsection (b); and
       (2) a process by which--
       (A) a covered individual, the commanding officer of a 
     covered individual, or any other Coast Guard official may 
     initiate a request that a subject be administratively 
     assigned to another unit in accordance with military 
     assignments and authorized absence policy for the duration of 
     the investigation and, if applicable, prosecution of such 
     subject;
       (B) the Coast Guard shall ensure that any administrative 
     assignment action in response to a request under subparagraph 
     (A) will be taken not as a punitive measure, but solely for 
     the purpose of maintaining good order and discipline within 
     the unit of the covered individual or the subject; and
       (C) protection of due process for the subject is preserved.
       (b) Recusal.--The expedited transfer process implemented 
     under this section shall require the recusal of any official 
     involved in the approval or denial of an expedited transfer 
     request if the official was, at any time--
       (1) the subject of a complaint of any form of assault, 
     harassment, or retaliation, or any other type of complaint, 
     filed by the covered individual; or
       (2) associated, beyond workplace interactions, with the 
     subject in a manner that may present an actual or apparent 
     conflict of interest.
       (c) Notification Requirement.--With respect to a member of 
     the Coast Guard who makes an unrestricted report of sexual 
     assault or a report of domestic violence, the updated policy 
     required under subsection (a) shall specify the appropriate 
     officials of the Coast Guard who shall provide such member 
     with information regarding expedited transfer authority.
       (d) Report.--
       (1) Initial report.--Not later than March 1 of the year 
     that is not less than 1 year after the date on which the 
     updates required under subsection (a) are completed, the 
     Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives, as an enclosure or appendix to the report 
     required by section 5112 of title 14, United States Code, a 
     report on such updates that includes--
       (A) a copy of the updated policies of the Coast Guard 
     relating to expedited transfers;
       (B) a summary of such updated policies;
       (C) for the preceding year, the number of covered 
     individuals who have requested an expedited transfer, 
     disaggregated by gender of the requester and whether the 
     request was granted or denied;
       (D) for each denial of an expedited transfer request during 
     the preceding year, a description of the rationale for the 
     denial; and
       (E) any other matter the Commandant considers appropriate.
       (2) Subsequent reports.--Not later than 1 year after the 
     Commandant submits the report required under paragraph (1), 
     and annually thereafter for 3 years, the Commandant shall 
     submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives, as an enclosure or appendix to the report 
     required by section 5112 of title 14, United States Code, a 
     report on the updates required under subsection (a) that 
     includes--
       (A) any policies of the Coast Guard relating to expedited 
     transfers that have been updated since the previous report 
     submitted under this subsection;
       (B) a summary of any such updated policies; and
       (C) the information described under subparagraphs (C) 
     through (E) of paragraph (1).
       (e) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Covered individual.--The term ``covered individual'' 
     means--
       (A) a member of the Coast Guard who is a victim of sexual 
     assault in a case handled under the Sexual Assault 
     Prevention, Response, and Recovery Program or the Family 
     Advocacy Program;
       (B) a member of the Coast Guard who is a victim of domestic 
     violence (as defined by the Secretary of the department in 
     which the Coast Guard is operating in the policies prescribed 
     under this section) committed by the spouse or intimate 
     partner of the member, regardless of whether the spouse or 
     intimate partner is a member of the Coast Guard; and
       (C) a member of the Coast Guard whose dependent is a victim 
     of sexual assault or domestic violence.
       (2) Subject.--The term ``subject'' means a member of the 
     Coast Guard who is the subject of an investigation related to 
     alleged incidents of sexual assault or domestic violence and 
     is stationed at the same installation as, or in close 
     proximity to, the covered individual involved.

     SEC. 429. ACCESS TO TEMPORARY SEPARATION PROGRAM FOR VICTIMS 
                   OF ALLEGED SEX-RELATED OFFENSES.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall update the Coast 
     Guard policy relating to temporary separation of members of 
     the Coast Guard who are victims of alleged sex-related 
     offenses as required under subsection (b).
       (b) Eligibility.--The updated policy required under 
     subsection (a) shall include--
       (1) a provision that allows a member of the Coast Guard to 
     request to participate in the temporary separation program if 
     the member has reported, in an unrestricted format or to the 
     greatest extent practicable, a restricted format, being the 
     victim of an alleged sex-related offense on a date that is 
     during--
       (A) the 5-year period preceding the requested date of 
     separation; and
       (B) the military service of the member;
       (2) a provision that provides eligibility for a member of 
     the Coast Guard to request temporary separation if the member 
     has reported being the victim of an alleged sex-related 
     offense, even if--
       (A) the member has had a previous temporary separation 
     including a previous temporary separation as the victim of a 
     previous unrelated alleged sex-related offense; or
       (B) the enlistment period of the member is not nearing 
     expiration or the tour or contract of the member is not 
     nearing completion;
       (3) an updated standard of review consistent with the 
     application of, and purposes of, this section; and
       (4) the establishment of a process--
       (A) for eligible members to make requests for temporary 
     separation under this section; and
       (B) that allows the Commandant to consider whether to allow 
     a member granted temporary separation under this section to 
     fulfill the enlistment period or tour or contract obligation 
     of the member after the end of the temporary separation 
     period.
       (c) Exception From Repayment of Bonuses, Incentive Pay, or 
     Similar Benefits and Termination of Remaining Payments.--For 
     any temporary separation granted under the updated policy 
     required under subsection (a), the Secretary concerned may 
     conduct a review to determine whether to exercise discretion 
     in accordance with section 373(b)(1) of title 37, United 
     States Code.
       (d) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Secretary concerned.--The term ``Secretary concerned'' 
     has the meaning given such term in section 101 of title 37, 
     United States Code.
       (2) Sex-related offense.--The term ``sex-related offense'' 
     has the meaning given such term in section 1044e(h) of title 
     10, United States Code.

     SEC. 430. POLICY AND PROGRAM TO EXPAND PREVENTION OF SEXUAL 
                   MISCONDUCT.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall develop and issue 
     a comprehensive policy for the Coast Guard to reinvigorate 
     the prevention of misconduct involving members and civilians 
     of the Coast Guard that contains the policy elements 
     described in section 1561 of title 10, United States Code.
       (b) Programs Required.--Not later than 180 days after the 
     issuance of the policy required under paragraph (1), the 
     Commandant shall develop and implement for the Coast Guard a 
     program to reinvigorate the prevention of misconduct 
     involving members and civilians of the Coast Guard.

     SEC. 431. CONTINUOUS VETTING OF SECURITY CLEARANCES.

       Section 1564(c) of title 10, United States Code, is 
     amended--
       (1) in paragraph (1)--
       (A) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A) by inserting 
     ``, and the Secretary of Homeland Security shall conduct an 
     investigation or adjudication under subsection (a) of any 
     individual described in paragraph (3),'' after ``paragraph 
     (2)''; and
       (B) in subparagraph (A)(iv) by striking ``the Secretary'' 
     and inserting ``the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary of 
     Homeland Security, as the case may be,'';
       (2) in paragraph (2) by inserting ``(other than an 
     individual described in paragraph (3))'' after ``is an 
     individual'';
       (3) by redesignating paragraphs (3) and (4) as paragraphs 
     (4) and (5), respectively;
       (4) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following new 
     paragraph:
       ``(3) An individual described in this paragraph is an 
     individual who has a security clearance and is--
       ``(A) a flag officer of the Coast Guard; or
       ``(B) an employee of the Coast Guard in the Senior 
     Executive Service.''; and
       (5) in paragraph (4), as redesignated by paragraph (3), by 
     striking ``Secretary'' and all that follows through 
     ``paragraph (2)'' and inserting the following: ``Secretary of 
     Defense, in the case of an individual described in paragraph 
     (2), and the Secretary of Homeland Security, in the case of 
     an individual described in paragraph (3), shall ensure that 
     relevant information on the conviction or determination 
     described in paragraph (1) of such an individual''.

     SEC. 432. TRAINING AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR COVERED 
                   MISCONDUCT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE.

       (a) Modification of Curriculum.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall revise the 
     curriculum of the Coast Guard with respect to covered 
     misconduct prevention and response training--
       (A) to include--

[[Page S1561]]

       (i) information on procedures and responsibilities with 
     respect to reporting requirements, investigations, survivor 
     health and safety (including expedited transfers, no-contact 
     orders, military and civilian protective orders, and 
     temporary separations), and whistleblower protections;
       (ii) information on Department of Veterans Affairs 
     resources available to veterans, active-duty personnel, and 
     reserve personnel;
       (iii) information on the right of any member of the Coast 
     Guard to seek legal resources outside the Coast Guard;
       (iv) general information regarding the availability of 
     legal resources provided by civilian legal services 
     organizations, presented in an organized and consistent 
     manner that does not endorse any particular legal services 
     organization; and
       (v) information on the capability, operations, reporting 
     structure, and requirements with respect to the Chief 
     Prosecutor of the Coast Guard; and
       (B) to address the workforce training recommendations set 
     forth in the memorandum of the Coast Guard titled 
     ``Commandant's Directed Actions--Accountability and 
     Transparency'', issued on November 27, 2023.
       (2) Collaboration.--In revising the curriculum under this 
     subsection, the Commandant shall solicit input from 
     individuals outside the Coast Guard who are experts in sexual 
     assault and sexual harassment prevention and response 
     training.
       (b) Covered Misconduct Prevention and Response Training and 
     Education.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall ensure that all 
     members and civilian employees of the Coast Guard are 
     provided with annual covered misconduct prevention and 
     response training and education for the purpose of 
     strengthening individual knowledge, skills, and capacity 
     relating to the prevention of and response to covered 
     misconduct.
       (2) Scope.--The training and education referred to in 
     paragraph (1)--
       (A) shall be provided as part of--
       (i) initial entry and accession training;
       (ii) annual refresher training;
       (iii) initial and recurring training courses for covered 
     first responders;
       (iv) new and prospective commanding officer and executive 
     officer training; and
       (v) specialized leadership training; and
       (B) shall be tailored for specific leadership levels, 
     positions, pay grades, and roles.
       (3) Content.--The training and education referred to in 
     paragraph (1) shall include the information described in 
     subsection (a)(1)(A).
       (c) Covered First Responder Training.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall ensure that--
       (A) training for covered first responders includes the 
     covered misconduct prevention and response training described 
     in subsection (b); and
       (B) such covered misconduct prevention and response 
     training is provided to covered first responders on a 
     recurring basis.
       (2) Requirements.--In addition to the information described 
     in subsection (a)(1)(A), the initial and recurring covered 
     misconduct prevention and response training for covered first 
     responders shall include information on procedures and 
     responsibilities with respect to--
       (A) the provision of care to a victim of covered 
     misconduct, in accordance with professional standards or 
     practice, that accounts for trauma experienced by the victim 
     and associated symptoms or events that may exacerbate such 
     trauma; and
       (B) the manner in which such a victim may receive such 
     care.
       (d) Training for Prospective Commanding Officers and 
     Executive Officers.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall ensure that 
     training for prospective commanders and executive officers at 
     all levels of command includes the covered misconduct 
     prevention and response training described in subsection (b).
       (2) Requirements.--In addition to the information described 
     in subsection (a)(1)(A), the covered misconduct prevention 
     and response training for prospective commanding officers and 
     executive officers shall be--
       (A) tailored to the responsibilities and leadership 
     requirements of members of the Coast Guard as they are 
     assigned to command positions; and
       (B) revised, as necessary, to include information on--
       (i) fostering a command climate--

       (I) that does not tolerate covered misconduct;
       (II) in which individuals assigned to the command are 
     encouraged to intervene to prevent potential incidents of 
     covered misconduct; and
       (III) that encourages victims of covered misconduct to 
     report any incident of covered misconduct;

       (ii) the possible variations in the effect of trauma on 
     individuals who have experienced covered misconduct;
       (iii) potential differences in the procedures and 
     responsibilities, Department of Veterans Affairs resources, 
     and legal resources described in subsection (a)(1)(A) 
     depending on the operating environment in which an incident 
     of covered misconduct occurred;
       (iv) the investigation of alleged incidents of covered 
     misconduct, including training on understanding evidentiary 
     standards;
       (v) available disciplinary options, including 
     administrative action and deferral of discipline for 
     collateral misconduct, and examples of disciplinary options 
     in civilian jurisdictions; and
       (vi) the capability, operations, reporting structure, and 
     requirements with respect to the Chief Prosecutor of the 
     Coast Guard.
       (e) Entry and Accession Trainings.--
       (1) Initial training.--
       (A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall provide for the 
     inclusion of an initial covered misconduct prevention and 
     response training module in the training for each new member 
     of the Coast Guard, which shall be provided not later than 14 
     duty days after the date of accession.
       (B) Requirement.--In addition to the information described 
     in subsection (a)(1)(A), the initial training module referred 
     to in subparagraph (A) shall include a comprehensive 
     explanation of Coast Guard--
       (i) policy with respect to covered misconduct; and
       (ii) procedures for reporting covered misconduct.
       (2) Subsequent training.--
       (A) In general.--The Commandant shall provide for the 
     inclusion of a detailed covered misconduct prevention and 
     response training module in the training for each new member 
     of the Coast Guard, which shall be provided not later than 60 
     duty days after the date on which the initial training module 
     described in paragraph (1)(A) is provided.
       (B) Content.--The detailed training module referred to in 
     subparagraph (A) shall include the information described in 
     subsection (a)(1)(A).
       (f) Definitions.--In this section:
       (1) Covered first responder.--The term ``covered first 
     responder'' includes sexual assault response coordinators, 
     victim advocates, Coast Guard medical officers, Coast Guard 
     security forces, Coast Guard Investigative Service agents, 
     judge advocates, special victims' counsel, chaplains, and 
     related personnel.
       (2) Covered misconduct.--The term ``covered misconduct'' 
     has the meaning given such term in section 2519 of title 14, 
     United States Code.

                  TITLE V--COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORTS

     SEC. 501. COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORT ON COAST GUARD RESEARCH, 
                   DEVELOPMENT, AND INNOVATION PROGRAM.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
     and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on the state of the research, 
     development, and innovation program of the Coast Guard during 
     the 5-year period ending on such date of enactment.
       (b) Elements.--The report required by subsection (a) shall 
     include the following:
       (1) An evaluation and description of the process for 
     selecting projects to be carried out under the research, 
     development, and innovation program of the Coast Guard.
       (2) An analysis of the manner in which funding needs are 
     determined and requested for such program, and for the 
     activities and projects of such program, in alignment with 
     the appropriate fiscal year.
       (3) An assessment of the manner in which the Coast Guard 
     determines desired outcomes, and measures the impact, of 
     successful projects on the execution of the operations and 
     mission of the Coast Guard.
       (4) An assessment of the manner in which the Coast Guard 
     evaluates impacts and benefits of partnerships between the 
     Coast Guard and the Department of Defense and other entities, 
     and a description of the extent to which and manner in which 
     the Coast Guard is leveraging such benefits and identifying 
     and managing any potential challenge.
       (5) An analysis of the manner in which the Commandant is 
     working with partners to accelerate project transition from 
     research, testing, evaluation, and prototype to production.
       (6) An assessment of the manner in which the authority to 
     enter into transactions other than contracts and grants 
     pursuant to sections 719 and 1158 of title 14, United States 
     Code, has been exercised by the Commandant, and a description 
     of any training or resources necessary (including additional 
     agreements for officers and training) to more fully exercise 
     such authority.
       (7) An evaluation of the role of the Blue Tech Center of 
     Expertise established in section 302 of the Coast Guard Blue 
     Technology Center of Expertise Act (Public Law 115-265).
       (8) Recommendations regarding authorization, personnel, 
     infrastructure, and other requirements necessary for the 
     expeditious transition of technologies developed under such 
     program from prototype to production in the field.
       (c) Consultation.--In developing the report required under 
     subsection (a), the Comptroller General may consult with--
       (1) the maritime and aviation industries;
       (2) the Secretary of Defense;
       (3) the intelligence community; and
       (4) any relevant--
       (A) federally funded research institutions;
       (B) nongovernmental organizations; and
       (C) institutions of higher education.

     SEC. 502. COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY ON VESSEL TRAFFIC SERVICE 
                   CENTER EMPLOYMENT, COMPENSATION, AND RETENTION.

       (a) Definition of Vessel Traffic Service Center.--In this 
     section, the term ``vessel

[[Page S1562]]

     traffic service center'' has the meaning given the term in 
     section 70001(m) of title 46, United States Code.
       (b) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall commence a study on employment compensation, 
     competitiveness, assignment, and retention of civilian and 
     military personnel assigned to or otherwise employed at 
     vessel traffic service centers in the United States.
       (c) Elements.--The study required under subsection (b) 
     shall include the following:
       (1) An assessment of the extent to which the 
     classification, assignment, selection, and pay rates of 
     personnel assigned to or otherwise employed at vessel traffic 
     service centers are commensurate with the required 
     experience, duties, safety functions, and responsibilities of 
     such positions.
       (2) An assessment of the appropriate classification, 
     assignment, selection, and pay rate, as well as nonmonetary 
     employment incentives, that would foster a robust and 
     competitive civilian candidate pool for employment 
     opportunities in civilian positions at vessel traffic service 
     centers.
       (3) An analysis of the average civilian employment 
     retention rate and average term of employment of civilian 
     personnel, by position, at vessel traffic service centers.
       (4) An analysis of existing special payments, as discussed 
     in the report by the Government Accountability Office 
     entitled ``Federal Pay: Opportunities Exist to Enhance 
     Strategic Use of Special Payments'' (published December 7, 
     2017; GAO-18-91), that may be available to personnel assigned 
     to or otherwise employed at vessel traffic service centers.
       (5) An evaluation of all assignment parameters and civilian 
     hiring authority codes used by the Coast Guard in assigning 
     and hiring personnel assigned to or otherwise employed at 
     vessel traffic service centers.
       (6) An analysis of whether opportunities exist to refine, 
     consolidate, or expand Coast Guard civilian hiring 
     authorities for purposes of hiring personnel at the vessel 
     traffic service centers.
       (7) An assessment of the ability of the composition, as in 
     effect on the first day of the study, of military and 
     civilian personnel assigned to or otherwise employed at 
     vessel traffic service centers to ensure safety on the 
     waterways and to manage increasing demand for vessel traffic 
     services, taking into account the ranks and grades of such 
     personnel, the respective experience levels and training of 
     such personnel, and the respective duties, safety functions, 
     and responsibilities of such personnel.
       (8) An assessment of, and recommendations to improve, the 
     Coast Guard's efforts to support the career progression of 
     and advancement opportunities for officers and enlisted 
     members of the Coast Guard assigned to vessel traffic service 
     centers.
       (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after commencing the 
     study required under subsection (b), the Comptroller General 
     shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on the findings of the study.

     SEC. 503. COMPTROLLER GENERAL REVIEW OF QUALITY AND 
                   AVAILABILITY OF COAST GUARD BEHAVIORAL HEALTH 
                   CARE AND RESOURCES FOR PERSONNEL WELLNESS.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall commence a review of the quality and 
     availability of behavioral health care and related resources 
     for Coast Guard personnel at the locations described in 
     subsection (b).
       (b) Locations to Be Reviewed.--In conducting the review 
     under subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall--
       (1) first review the practices and policies relating to the 
     availability of behavioral health care and related resources 
     at Training Center Cape May; and
       (2) review such practices and policies at--
       (A) the Coast Guard Academy, including Officer Candidate 
     School; and
       (B) other Coast Guard training locations, as applicable.
       (c) Elements.--The review conducted under subsection (a) 
     shall include, for each location described in subsection (b), 
     an assessment, and a description of available trend 
     information (as applicable) for the 10-year period preceding 
     the date of the review, with respect to each of the 
     following:
       (1) The nature of Coast Guard resources directed toward 
     behavioral health services at the location.
       (2) The manner in which the Coast Guard has managed 
     treatment for recruits, cadets, officer candidates, or other 
     personnel who may be experiencing a behavioral health crisis 
     at the location (including individuals who have transferred 
     to other buildings or facilities within the location).
       (3) The extent to which the Coast Guard has identified the 
     resources, such as physical spaces and facilities, necessary 
     to manage behavioral health challenges and crises that Coast 
     Guard personnel may face at the location.
       (4) The behavioral health screenings required by the Coast 
     Guard for recruits, cadets, officer candidates, or other 
     personnel at the location, and the manner in which such 
     screenings compare with screenings required by the Department 
     of Defense for military recruits, service academy cadets, 
     officer candidates, or other personnel at military service 
     accession points.
       (5) Whether the Coast Guard has assessed the adequacy of 
     behavioral health resources and services for recruits, 
     cadets, officer candidates, and other personnel at the 
     location, and if so, the additional services and resources 
     (such as resilience and life skills coaching), if any, needed 
     to address any potential gaps.
       (6) The manner in which the Coast Guard manages care 
     transfers related to behavior health at the location, 
     including command and other management input and privacy 
     policies.
       (7) The extent to which the Coast Guard has evaluated 
     contributing factors or reasons for behavioral health crises 
     experienced by newly enlisted personnel, cadets, officer 
     candidates, or other personnel at the location.
       (8) The extent to which the Coast Guard has addressed, at 
     the location, provider care staffing standards and 
     credentialing deficiencies identified in the report of the 
     Comptroller General titled ``Coast Guard Health Care: 
     Improvements Needed for Determining Staffing Needs and 
     Monitoring Access to Care'', issued on February 4, 2022.
       (d) Reports.--The Comptroller General shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives--
       (1) as soon as practicable but not later than 1 year after 
     the date of enactment of this Act, a report relating to the 
     results of the review conducted under subsection (a) relating 
     to Training Center Cape May, including any recommendations 
     the Comptroller General considers appropriate; and
       (2) not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of 
     this Act--
       (A) a report on the results of the review conducted under 
     subsection (a) relating to--
       (i) the Coast Guard Academy, including Officer Candidate 
     School; and
       (ii) other Coast Guard training locations, as applicable; 
     and
       (B) any recommendations the Comptroller General considers 
     appropriate.

     SEC. 504. COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY ON COAST GUARD EFFORTS TO 
                   REDUCE PREVALENCE OF MISSING OR INCOMPLETE 
                   MEDICAL RECORDS AND SHARING OF MEDICAL DATA 
                   WITH DEPARTMENT OF VETERANS AFFAIRS AND OTHER 
                   ENTITIES.

       (a) Study.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall commence a study assessing the efforts of the 
     Commandant--
       (1) to reduce the prevalence of missing or incomplete 
     medical records;
       (2) to share medical data of members of the Coast Guard 
     with the Department of Veterans Affairs; and
       (3) to ensure that electronic health records are provided 
     in a format that is user friendly and easy to access.
       (b) Elements.--In conducting the study under subsection 
     (a), the Comptroller General shall review the following:
       (1) The steps the Commandant has taken to reduce the 
     prevalence of missing or incomplete medical records of 
     members of the Coast Guard.
       (2) How implementation of an electronic health record 
     system has affected the ability of the Commandant to manage 
     health records of members of the Coast Guard, including--
       (A) how the Commandant adds records from private medical 
     providers to the electronic health record system;
       (B) the progress of the Commandant toward implementing the 
     electronic health record system in shipboard sick bays of the 
     Coast Guard;
       (C) how the Coast Guard shares medical records with the 
     Department of Veterans Affairs; and
       (D) any other matter the Comptroller General considers 
     appropriate with respect to medical record storage, use, and 
     sharing and the associated consequences for member health and 
     well-being.
       (3) The ability of members of the Coast Guard, medical 
     professionals of the Coast Guard and of the Department of 
     Defense, personnel of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and 
     other personnel to access and search, as appropriate, the 
     electronic health records of individuals, including the 
     ability to search or quickly find information within 
     electronic health records.
       (c) Report.--Upon completion of the study under subsection 
     (a), the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives a report containing the results of the 
     study under subsection (a).

     SEC. 505. COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY ON COAST GUARD TRAINING 
                   FACILITY INFRASTRUCTURE.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall commence a study on Coast Guard training 
     facility infrastructure, including the specific needs of the 
     Coast Guard training facilities described in subsection (c).
       (b) Elements.--The study required under subsection (a) 
     shall include the following:
       (1) With respect to each Coast Guard training facility 
     described in subsection (c)--
       (A) a summary of capital needs, including construction and 
     repair;
       (B) a summary of equipment upgrade backlogs;

[[Page S1563]]

       (C) an assessment of necessary improvements, including 
     improvements to essential training equipment (including 
     swimming pools, operational simulators, and marksmanship 
     training ranges) to enable the Coast Guard to achieve all 
     operational training objectives;
       (D) a description of the resources necessary to fully 
     address all training needs;
       (E) an assessment of any security deficiency, including 
     with respect to base access, training facility access, and 
     trainee berthing area access;
       (F) an identification of any exposed hazard that does not 
     serve a training purpose;
       (G) an identification of the presence of hazardous or toxic 
     materials, including--
       (i) lead-based paint;
       (ii) asbestos or products that contain asbestos;
       (iii) black mold;
       (iv) radon; and
       (v) contaminated drinking water; and
       (H) an assessment of the need for, and estimated cost of, 
     remediation of such toxic materials.
       (2) An evaluation of the process used by the Coast Guard to 
     identify, monitor, and construct Coast Guard training 
     facilities.
       (c) Coast Guard Training Facilities Described.--The Coast 
     Guard training facilities described in this subsection are 
     the following:
       (1) The Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut.
       (2) The Leadership Development Center in New London, 
     Connecticut.
       (3) Training Center Cape May, New Jersey.
       (4) Training Center Petaluma, California.
       (5) Training Center Yorktown, Virginia.
       (6) The Maritime Law Enforcement Academy in Charleston, 
     South Carolina.
       (7) The Special Missions Training Center at Camp Lejeune in 
     North Carolina.
       (8) The Gulf Regional Fisheries Training Center (GRFTC) in 
     New Orleans, Louisiana.
       (9) The North Pacific Regional Fisheries Training Center 
     (NPRFTC) in Kodiak, Alaska.
       (10) The Northeast Regional Fisheries Training Center 
     (NRFTC) at Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
       (11) The Southeast Regional Fisheries Training Center 
     (SRFTC) in Charleston, South Carolina.
       (12) The Pacific Regional Fisheries Training Center (PRFTC) 
     in Alameda, California.
       (13) The National Motor Lifeboat School at Cape 
     Disappointment, Washington.
       (14) The Aviation Technical Training Center in Elizabeth 
     City, North Carolina.
       (15) The Aviation Training Center in Mobile, Alabama.
       (d) Report.--Not later than 1 year after commencing the 
     study required under subsection (a), the Comptroller General 
     shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on the findings of the study.

     SEC. 506. COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY ON FACILITY AND 
                   INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS OF COAST GUARD STATIONS 
                   CONDUCTING BORDER SECURITY OPERATIONS.

       (a) Study.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall commence a study on the facility and 
     infrastructure needs of the Coast Guard stations and units 
     described in paragraph (3).
       (2) Elements.--The study required under paragraph (1) shall 
     include, with respect to each Coast Guard station and unit 
     described in paragraph (3), the following:
       (A) An assessment of capital needs, including personnel 
     capacity, construction, and repair.
       (B) An assessment of equipment upgrade backlogs.
       (C) An identification of any necessary improvement, 
     including any improvement to operational and training 
     equipment necessary to conduct safe and effective maritime 
     border security operations.
       (D) An identification of any resource necessary to fully 
     address all operational and training needs.
       (E) An identification of any physical security deficiency.
       (F) An identification of any exposed hazard.
       (G) An identification of the presence of any hazardous or 
     toxic material, including--
       (i) lead-based paint;
       (ii) asbestos or any product that contains asbestos;
       (iii) black mold;
       (iv) radon; and
       (v) contaminated drinking water.
       (H) An assessment of the need for, and estimated cost of, 
     remediation of any toxic material identified under 
     subparagraph (G).
       (3) Coast guard stations described.--The Coast Guard 
     stations and units described in this paragraph are the 
     following:
       (A) Coast Guard Station South Padre Island, Texas.
       (B) Coast Guard Station Port Aransas, Texas.
       (C) Coast Guard Station Port O"Connor, Texas.
       (D) Coast Guard Station Bellingham, Washington.
       (E) Coast Guard Station Neah Bay, Washington.
       (F) Coast Guard Station Port Angeles, Washington.
       (G) Coast Guard Station Ketchikan, Alaska.
       (H) Coast Guard Station San Diego, California.
       (I) Coast Guard Station Key West, Florida.
       (J) Coast Guard Station Marathon, Florida.
       (K) Coast Guard Station Islamorada, Florida.
       (L) Coast Guard Station Jonesport, Maine.
       (M) Coast Guard Station Bayfield, Wisconsin.
       (N) Coast Guard Station Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.
       (O) Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment Santa Barbara.
       (P) Any other Coast Guard station the Comptroller General 
     considers appropriate.
       (b) Report.--Not later than 1 year after commencing the 
     study required under subsection (a), the Comptroller General 
     shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate, the Committee on Transportation 
     and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives, and the 
     Commandant a report on the findings of the study, including 
     any recommendation the Comptroller General considers 
     appropriate.
       (c) Briefings.--Not later than 180 days after the date on 
     which the report required under subsection (b) is submitted 
     to the Commandant, the Commandant shall provide a briefing to 
     the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives on--
       (1) the actions the Commandant has taken, or has ceased to 
     take, as a result of the findings, including any 
     recommendation, set forth in the report; and
       (2) a plan for addressing such findings and any such 
     recommendation.

     SEC. 507. COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY ON COAST GUARD BASIC 
                   ALLOWANCE FOR HOUSING.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 90 days after the date on 
     which the Department of Defense issues the report on the 
     Fourteenth Quadrennial Review of Military Compensation, the 
     Comptroller General of the United States shall commence a 
     study of Coast Guard involvement in, and efforts to support, 
     the determination of the cost of adequate housing and the 
     calculation of the basic allowance for housing under section 
     403 of title 37, United States Code.
       (b) Elements.--The study required under subsection (a) 
     shall include, to the extent practicable, the following:
       (1) An identification of Coast Guard duty locations in 
     which there is a misalignment between the basic allowance for 
     housing rate and the prevailing housing cost for members of 
     the Coast Guard such that the basic allowance for housing is 
     less than 95 percent of the monthly cost of adequate housing 
     for such members in the corresponding military housing area.
       (2) An analysis of each of the following:
       (A) Anchor points, including--
       (i) the methodology for the establishment of anchor points; 
     and
       (ii) with respect to housing provided as part of a public-
     private venture and Government-owned and Government-leased 
     housing, the disparities between established anchor points 
     and housing standards across the armed forces (as such term 
     is defined in section 101 of title 10, United States Code).
       (B) Existing military housing boundary areas that affect 
     the Coast Guard.
       (C) Actions taken by the Commandant to comprehensively 
     monitor basic allowance for housing rates for Coast Guard 
     duty locations.
       (D) The frequency of reviews conducted by the Commandant of 
     the site visits used by the Department of Defense to inform 
     military housing area boundaries.
       (c) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which 
     the study required under subsection (a) commences, the 
     Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives, and the Commandant a report on the 
     findings of the study, including any recommendation the 
     Comptroller General considers appropriate.
       (d) Plan.--Not later than 1 year after the date on which 
     the report required by subsection (c) is submitted to the 
     Commandant, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House 
     of Representatives--
       (1) an implementation plan, including timeframes and 
     milestones, addressing any recommendation made by the 
     Comptroller General in such report, as the Commandant 
     considers appropriate; and
       (2) with respect to any recommendation set forth in such 
     report that the Commandant declines to implement, a written 
     justification for the decision.
       (e) Anchor Point Defined.--In this section, the term 
     ``anchor point''--
       (1) means the minimum housing standard reference benchmark 
     used to establish the basic allowance for housing under 
     section 403 of title 37, United States Code; and
       (2) includes housing type and size based on pay grade and 
     dependent status.

     SEC. 508. COMPTROLLER GENERAL REPORT ON SAFETY AND SECURITY 
                   INFRASTRUCTURE AT COAST GUARD ACADEMY.

       (a) GAO Report.--

[[Page S1564]]

       (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, 
     and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on the safety and security 
     infrastructure at the Coast Guard Academy.
       (2) Elements.--The report required under paragraph (1) 
     shall include an assessment of each of the following:
       (A) Existing security infrastructure for the grounds, 
     buildings, athletic facilities, and any other facility of the 
     Coast Guard Academy, including access points, locks, 
     surveillance, and other security methods, as appropriate.
       (B) Coast Guard policies with respect to the management, 
     data storage and access, and operational capacity of the 
     security infrastructure and methods evaluated under 
     subparagraph (A).
       (C) Special security needs relating to events at the Coast 
     Guard Academy, such as large athletic events and other widely 
     attended events.
       (D) Coast Guard policies and procedures with respect to 
     access to Coast Guard Academy grounds by--
       (i) current or former members of the Coast Guard;
       (ii) current or former civilian employees of the Coast 
     Guard;
       (iii) Coast Guard personnel that reside at the Academy and 
     families of cadets; and
       (iv) members of the public.
       (E) Existing processes by which the Commandant, the 
     Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy, or a designated 
     individual may prohibit or restrict access to Coast Guard 
     Academy grounds by any current or former member or civilian 
     employee of the Coast Guard who--
       (i) has been subject to court-martial under the Uniform 
     Code of Military Justice for sexual misconduct; or
       (ii) has been administratively disciplined for sexual 
     misconduct.
       (F) Enforcement processes regarding access to Coast Guard 
     Academy grounds for individuals (including current and former 
     cadets, members, and civilian employees of the Coast Guard) 
     who are or have been subject to a no-contact order relating 
     to--
       (i) a cadet or member of the faculty of the Academy; or
       (ii) any other individual with access to Academy grounds.
       (G) Recommendations to improve--
       (i) the security of the Coast Guard Academy; and
       (ii) the safety of--

       (I) cadets at the Coast Guard Academy; and
       (II) members of the Coast Guard stationed at, and civilian 
     employees of, the Coast Guard Academy.

       (b) Actions by Commandant.--
       (1) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date on 
     which the Comptroller General submits the report required 
     under subsection (a), the Commandant shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a report that includes--
       (A) a detailed plan to improve the security of, and the 
     safety of cadets at, the Coast Guard Academy; and
       (B) a detailed timeline for implementation of--
       (i) the recommendations made by the Comptroller General in 
     such report; and
       (ii) any other safety improvement the Commandant considers 
     appropriate.
       (2) Policy.--Not later than 30 days after the date on which 
     the Comptroller General submits the report required under 
     subsection (a), the Commandant, in a manner that maintains 
     good order and discipline, shall update Coast Guard policy 
     relating to access to the Coast Guard Academy grounds to 
     include procedures by which individuals may be prohibited 
     from accessing the Coast Guard Academy--
       (A) as the Commandant considers appropriate; and
       (B) consistent with the recommendations made by the 
     Comptroller General in such report.

     SEC. 509. COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY ON ATHLETIC COACHING AT 
                   COAST GUARD ACADEMY.

       (a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States, in consultation with the Superintendent of the Coast 
     Guard Academy, shall commence a study on the number of 
     administratively determined billets for teaching and coaching 
     necessary to support Coast Guard Academy recruitment, 
     intercollegiate athletics, health and physical education, and 
     leadership development programs.
       (b) Elements.--The study required under subsection (a) 
     shall include the following:
       (1) An identification of the number of full-time and part-
     time employees performing coaching functions at the Coast 
     Guard Academy whose positions are funded by a nonappropriated 
     fund instrumentality of the Coast Guard.
       (2) An identification of the number of full-time and part-
     time employees whose positions are funded by a 
     nonappropriated fund instrumentality performing coaching 
     functions at the following:
       (A) The United States Military Academy.
       (B) The United States Naval Academy.
       (C) The United States Air Force Academy.
       (D) The United States Merchant Marine Academy.
       (3) An analysis of the roles performed by athletic coaches 
     with respect to officer development at the Coast Guard 
     Academy, including the specific functions of athletic coaches 
     within the health and physical education and leadership 
     development program curriculums.
       (4) An identification of any adverse impacts on or 
     deficiencies in cadet training and officer development 
     resulting from an inadequate number of administratively 
     determined billets for teaching and coaching at the Coast 
     Guard Academy.
       (c) Consultation.--In conducting the study under subsection 
     (a), the Comptroller General may consult a federally funded 
     research and development center.
       (d) Report.--The Comptroller General shall submit to the 
     Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the 
     Senate and the Committee of Transportation and Infrastructure 
     of the House of Representatives a report on the results of 
     the study conducted under this section.

     SEC. 510. COMPTROLLER GENERAL STUDY AND REPORT ON PERMANENT 
                   CHANGE OF STATION PROCESS.

       (a) Study.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
     enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United 
     States shall commence a study to evaluate the effectiveness 
     of the permanent change of station process of the Coast 
     Guard.
       (b) Report.--
       (1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after commencing the 
     study required by subsection (a), the Comptroller General 
     shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and 
     Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on 
     Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of 
     Representatives a report on the findings of the study.
       (2) Elements.--The report required by paragraph (1) shall 
     include the following:
       (A) A description of the permanent change of station 
     policies of the Coast Guard.
       (B) A description of Coast Guard spending on permanent 
     change of station moves and associated support costs.
       (C) An evaluation of the effectiveness of using contracted 
     movers for permanent change of station moves, including the 
     estimated costs associated with--
       (i) lost or damaged personal property of members of the 
     Coast Guard;
       (ii) delays in scheduling such a move through a contracted 
     mover;
       (iii) delayed delivery of household goods; and
       (iv) other related challenges.
       (D) A review of changes to permanent change of station 
     policies implemented during the 10-year period ending on the 
     date of enactment of this Act, and the costs or savings to 
     the Coast Guard directly associated with such changes.
       (E) Recommendations to improve the permanent change of 
     station process of the Coast Guard.
       (F) Any additional information or related matter arising 
     from the study, as the Comptroller General considers 
     appropriate.

                          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) amended by striking ``(33 U.S.C. 1223 note)'' and 
     inserting ``(46 U.S.C. 70001 note)'';
       (C) transferred to appear after 70001(k) of title 46, 
     United States Code; and
       (D) 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)''.

[[Page S1565]]

       (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 (33 U.S.C. 2701) is amended--
       (A) in paragraph (32)(G) by striking ``pipeline'' and all 
     that follows through ``offshore facility'' and inserting 
     ``pipeline, offshore facility'';
       (B) in paragraph (39) by striking ``section 101(20)(G)(i)'' 
     and inserting ``section 101(20)(H)(i)'';
       (C) in paragraph (40) by striking ``section 
     101(20)(G)(ii)'' and inserting ``section 101(20)(H)(ii)'';
       (D) ) in paragraph (41) by striking ``section 
     101(20)(G)(iii)'' and inserting ``section 101(20)(H)(iii)'';
       (E) in paragraph (42) by striking ``section 
     101(20)(G)(iv)'' and inserting ``section 101(20)(H)(iv)'';
       (F) in paragraph (43) by striking ``section 101(20)(G)(v)'' 
     and inserting ``section 101(20)(H)(v)''; and
       (G) in paragraph (44) by striking ``section 
     101(20)(G)(vi)'' and inserting ``section 101(20)(H)(vi)''.
       (2) Section 1003(d)(6) (33 U.S.C. 2703(d)(6)) is amended by 
     striking ``this paragraph'' and inserting ``this 
     subsection''.
       (3) 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)''.
       (4) 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)''.
       (5) Section 1005(b)(5)(B) (33 U.S.C. 2716(b)(5)(B)) is 
     amended by striking ``section 1016(g)'' and inserting 
     ``section 2716(f)''.
       (6) 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''.
       (7) Section 7001(h)(1) (33 U.S.C. 2761(h)(1)) is amended by 
     striking ``subsection (c)(4)'' and inserting ``subsection 
     (e)(4)''.

       TITLE VII--NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION

      Subtitle A--National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
                       Commissioned Officer Corps

     SEC. 701. TITLE AND QUALIFICATIONS OF HEAD OF NATIONAL 
                   OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION 
                   COMMISSIONED OFFICER CORPS AND OFFICE OF MARINE 
                   AND AVIATION OPERATIONS; PROMOTIONS OF FLAG 
                   OFFICERS.

       (a) Title and Qualifications of Head.--
       (1) In general.--Section 228(c) of the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 
     2002 (33 U.S.C. 3028(c)) is amended--
       (A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Corps and 
     Office of'' and inserting ``Commissioned Officer Corps and 
     Assistant Administrator for'';
       (B) in the second sentence, by striking ``serving in'' and 
     all that follows through ``half)'' and inserting ``who has 
     served, on the date of such appointment, in the grade of 
     captain or above for not less than one year''; and
       (C) in the fourth sentence, by striking ``Director of the 
     Office of'' and inserting ``Assistant Administrator of the 
     National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for''.
       (2) Conforming amendment.--Section 4(a) of the Commercial 
     Engagement Through Ocean Technology Act of 2018 (33 U.S.C. 
     4103(a)) is amended by striking ``Director of the Office of'' 
     and inserting ``Assistant Administrator of the National 
     Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for''.
       (b) Promotions of Flag Officers.--Section 226 of the 
     National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned 
     Officer Corps Act of 2002 (33 U.S.C. 3026) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``Appointments'' and inserting the 
     following:
       ``(a) In General.--Appointments'';
       (2) by inserting after ``all permanent grades'' the 
     following: ``, other than a grade described in subsection 
     (b),''; and
       (3) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(b) Flag Officers.--Appointments in and promotions to the 
     grade of rear admiral (upper half) or above shall be made by 
     the President, by and with the advice and consent of the 
     Senate.''.

     SEC. 702. NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION 
                   VESSEL FLEET.

       (a) In General.--The NOAA Fleet Modernization Act (33 
     U.S.C. 891 et seq.) is amended--
       (1) in section 603 (33 U.S.C. 891a)--
       (A) in the section heading, by striking ``fleet'' and all 
     that follows through ``program'' and inserting ``operation 
     and maintenance of noaa fleet''; and
       (B) by striking ``is authorized'' and all that follows and 
     inserting the following: ``, acting through the Assistant 
     Administrator of NOAA for Marine and Aviation Operations, 
     shall operate and maintain a fleet of vessels to meet the 
     requirements of NOAA in carrying out the mission and 
     functions of NOAA, subject to the requirements of this 
     title.'';
       (2) in section 604 (33 U.S.C. 891b)--
       (A) in subsection (a), by striking ``Secretary'' and all 
     that follows and inserting ``Secretary, acting through the 
     Assistant Administrator of NOAA for Marine and Aviation 
     Operations, shall develop and submit to the Committee on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the 
     Committee on Natural Resources and the Committee on Science, 
     Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives a 
     replacement and modernization plan for the NOAA fleet not 
     later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of the 
     Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, and every 2 years 
     thereafter.'';
       (B) by striking subsections (b) and (d);
       (C) by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (b);
       (D) in subsection (b), as so redesignated--
       (i) in paragraph (1), by striking ``proposed'' and all that 
     follows and inserting the following: ``in operation in the 
     NOAA fleet as of the date of submission of the Plan, a 
     description of the status of those vessels, and a statement 
     of the planned and anticipated service life of those 
     vessels;'';
       (ii) by striking paragraph (6);
       (iii) by redesignating paragraphs (2), (3), (4), and (5) as 
     paragraphs (4), (5), (6), and (7), respectively;
       (iv) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
       ``(2) a plan with respect to operation, maintenance, and 
     replacement of vessels described in paragraph (1), including 
     the schedule for maintenance or replacement and anticipated 
     funding requirements;
       ``(3) the number of vessels proposed to be constructed by 
     NOAA;'';
       (v) in paragraph (4), as so redesignated, by striking 
     ``constructed, leased, or chartered'' and inserting 
     ``acquired, leased, or chartered by NOAA'';
       (vi) in paragraph (6), as so redesignated--

       (I) by striking ``or any other federal official'' and 
     inserting ``the Director of the National Science Foundation, 
     or any other Federal official''; and
       (II) by striking ``their availability'' and inserting ``the 
     availability of those vessels'';

       (vii) in paragraph (7), as so redesignated, by striking ``; 
     and'' and inserting a semicolon; and
       (viii) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(8) a plan for using small vessels, uncrewed systems, and 
     partnerships to augment the requirements of NOAA for days at 
     sea;
       ``(9) the number of officers of the NOAA commissioned 
     officer corps and professional wage mariners needed to 
     operate and maintain the NOAA fleet, including the vessels 
     identified under paragraph (3); and
       ``(10) current and potential challenges with meeting the 
     requirements under paragraph (9) and proposed solutions to 
     those challenges.''; and
       (E) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(c) Vessel Procurement Approval.--The National Oceanic 
     and Atmospheric Administration may not procure vessels that 
     are more than 65 feet in length without the approval of the 
     Assistant Administrator of NOAA for Marine and Aviation 
     Operations.'';
       (3) in section 605 (33 U.S.C. 891c)--
       (A) in subsection (a), in the matter preceding paragraph 
     (1), by striking ``working through the Office of the NOAA 
     Corps Operations and the Systems Procurement Office'' and 
     inserting ``acting through the Assistant Administrator of 
     NOAA for Marine and Aviation Operations''; and
       (B) in subsection (b)--
       (i) by striking ``shall'' and all that follows through 
     ``submit to Congress'' and inserting ``, acting through the 
     Assistant Administrator of NOAA for Marine and Aviation 
     Operations, shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, 
     Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee 
     on Natural Resources and the Committee on Science, Space, and 
     Technology of the House of Representatives,''; and
       (ii) by striking ``subsequent'';
       (4) in section 608 (33 U.S.C. 891f)--
       (A) by striking subsection (b);
       (B) by striking ``(a) Vessel Agreements.--''; and
       (C) by inserting after ``Secretary'' the following: ``, 
     acting through the Assistant Administrator of NOAA for Marine 
     and Aviation Operations,''; and
       (5) in section 610 (33 U.S.C. 891h)--
       (A) in subsection (a), by striking ``for carrying'' and all 
     that follows and inserting the following: ``$93,000,000 for 
     the period of fiscal years 2025 through 2026 to carry out 
     this title and section 302 of the Fisheries Survey Vessel 
     Authorization Act of 2000 (title III of Public Law 106-450; 
     114 Stat. 1945; 33 U.S.C. 891b note).''; and
       (B) in subsection (b), by striking ``National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration fleet modernization'' and 
     inserting ``NOAA fleet modernization,''.

[[Page S1566]]

       (b) Fishery Survey Vessels.--Section 302(a) of the 
     Fisheries Survey Vessel Authorization Act of 2000 (title III 
     of Public Law 106-450; 114 Stat. 1945; 33 U.S.C. 891b note) 
     is amended--
       (1) by striking ``may in accordance with this section'' and 
     inserting ``may'';
       (2) by striking ``up to six''; and
       (3) by inserting after ``this section'' the following: 
     ``and the NOAA Fleet Modernization Act (33 U.S.C. 891 et 
     seq.)''.
       (c) Notifications of Proposed Deactivation of Vessels.--
     Section 401(b)(4) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration Authorization Act of 1992 (Public Law 102-567; 
     106 Stat. 4291; 33 U.S.C. 891b note) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``(A)'' and all that follows through ``The 
     Secretary'' and inserting ``The Secretary'';
       (2) by striking ``the Committee on Merchant Marine and 
     Fisheries'' and inserting ``the Committee on Natural 
     Resources and the Committee on Science, Space, and 
     Technology''; and
       (3) by striking ``, if an equivalent'' and all that follows 
     through ``deactivation''.

     SEC. 703. COOPERATIVE AVIATION CENTERS.

       (a) In General.--Section 218 of the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 
     2002 (33 U.S.C. 3008) is amended--
       (1) in the section heading, by striking ``aviation 
     accession training programs'' and inserting ``cooperative 
     aviation centers'';
       (2) in subsection (a), by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) 
     and inserting the following:
       ``(2) Cooperative aviation center.--The term `Cooperative 
     Aviation Center' means a Cooperative Aviation Center 
     designated under subsection (b)(1).'';
       (3) in subsection (b)--
       (A) in the subsection heading, by striking ``Aviation 
     Accession Training Programs'' and inserting ``Cooperative 
     Aviation Centers'';
       (B) by striking paragraphs (3) and (4);
       (C) by redesignating paragraph (2) as paragraph (3);
       (D) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the following:
       ``(1) Designation required.--The Administrator shall 
     designate one or more Cooperative Aviation Centers for the 
     commissioned officer corps of the Administration at 
     institutions described in paragraph (3).
       ``(2) Purpose.--The purpose of Cooperative Aviation Centers 
     is to facilitate the development and recruitment of aviators 
     for the commissioned officer corps of the Administration.''; 
     and
       (E) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated--
       (i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), inserting 
     ``that'' after ``educational institution'';
       (ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``that requests'' and 
     inserting ``applies'';
       (iii) in subparagraph (B)--

       (I) by striking ``that has'' and inserting ``has''; and
       (II) by striking the semicolon and inserting ``; and'';

       (iv) in subparagraph (C)--

       (I) by striking ``that is located'' and inserting ``is 
     located'';
       (II) by striking clause (ii);
       (III) by striking ``that--'' and all that follows through 
     ``experiences'' and inserting ``that experiences''; and
       (IV) by striking ``; and'' and inserting a period; and

       (v) by striking subparagraph (D); and
       (4) by striking subsections (c), (d), and (e) and inserting 
     the following:
       ``(c) Cooperative Aviation Centers Advisor.--
       ``(1) Assignment.--The Administrator shall assign an 
     officer or employee of the commissioned officer corps of the 
     Administration to serve as the Cooperative Aviation Centers 
     Advisor.
       ``(2) Duties.--The Cooperative Aviation Centers Advisor 
     shall--
       ``(A) coordinate all engagement of the Administration with 
     Cooperative Aviation Centers, including assistance with 
     curriculum development; and
       ``(B) serve as the chief aviation recruiting officer for 
     the commissioned officer corps of the Administration.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 1 
     of the Act entitled ``An Act to reauthorize the Hydrographic 
     Services Improvement Act of 1998, and for other purposes'' 
     (Public Law 107-372) is amended by striking the item relating 
     to section 218 and inserting the following:

``Sec. 218.Cooperative Aviation Centers.''.

     SEC. 704. ELIGIBILITY OF FORMER OFFICERS TO COMPETE FOR 
                   CERTAIN POSITIONS.

       (a) In General.--The National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 2002 (33 
     U.S.C. 3001 et seq.) is amended by inserting after section 
     269B the following new section:

     ``SEC. 269C. ELIGIBILITY OF FORMER OFFICERS TO COMPETE FOR 
                   CERTAIN POSITIONS.

       ``(a) In General.--An individual who was separated from the 
     commissioned officer corps of the Administration under 
     honorable conditions after not fewer than 3 years of active 
     service may not be denied the opportunity to compete for a 
     vacant position with respect to which the agency in which the 
     position is located will accept applications from individuals 
     outside the workforce of that agency under merit promotion 
     procedures.
       ``(b) Type of Appointment.--If selected for a position 
     pursuant to subsection (a), an individual described in that 
     subsection shall receive a career or career-conditional 
     appointment, as appropriate.
       ``(c) Announcements.--The area of consideration for a merit 
     promotion announcement with respect to a position that 
     includes consideration of individuals within the Federal 
     service for that position shall--
       ``(1) indicate that individuals described in subsection (a) 
     are eligible to apply for the position; and
       ``(2) be publicized in accordance with section 3327 of 
     title 5, United States Code.
       ``(d) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section may be 
     construed to confer an entitlement to veterans' preference 
     that is not otherwise required by any statute or regulation 
     relating to veterans' preference.
       ``(e) Regulations.--The Director of the Office of Personnel 
     Management shall prescribe regulations necessary for the 
     administration of this section.
       ``(f) Reporting Requirement.--Not later than 3 years after 
     the date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 
     2025, the Administrator shall submit to the Committees on 
     Commerce, Science, and Transportation and Homeland Security 
     and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the Committees on 
     Natural Resources and Science, Space, and Technology of the 
     House of Representatives a report which includes the 
     following:
       ``(1) A description of how the Administrator has utilized 
     the authority granted under this section, including the 
     number and locations of individuals hired utilizing the 
     authority granted under this section.
       ``(2) An overview of the impact to Federal employment for 
     former members of the commissioned officer corps of the 
     Administration as a result of the authority granted under 
     this section.
       ``(g) Sunset.--This section shall be repealed on the date 
     that is 5 years after the date of enactment of the Coast 
     Guard Authorization Act of 2025.''.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 1 
     of such Act is amended by inserting after the item relating 
     to section 269B the following new item:

``Sec. 269C.Eligibility of former officers to compete for certain 
              positions.''.

     SEC. 705. ALIGNMENT OF PHYSICAL DISQUALIFICATION STANDARD FOR 
                   OBLIGATED SERVICE AGREEMENTS WITH STANDARD FOR 
                   VETERANS' BENEFITS.

       Section 216(c)(2)(B) of the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 
     2002 (33 U.S.C. 3006(c)(2)(B)) is amended by striking 
     ``misconduct or grossly negligent conduct'' and inserting 
     ``willful misconduct''.

     SEC. 706. STREAMLINING SEPARATION AND RETIREMENT PROCESS.

       Section 241(c) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 2002 (33 
     U.S.C. 3041(c)) is amended to read as follows:
       ``(c) Effective Date of Retirements and Separations.--
       ``(1) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), a retirement 
     or separation under subsection (a) shall take effect on such 
     date as is determined by the Secretary.
       ``(2) Determination of date.--The effective date determined 
     under paragraph (1) for a retirement or separation under 
     subsection (a) shall be--
       ``(A) except as provided by subparagraph (B), not earlier 
     than 60 days after the date on which the Secretary approves 
     the retirement or separation; or
       ``(B) if the officer concerned requests an earlier 
     effective date, such earlier date as is determined by the 
     Secretary.''.

     SEC. 707. SEPARATION OF ENSIGNS FOUND NOT FULLY QUALIFIED.

       Section 223(b) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
     Administration Commissioned Officer Corps Act of 2002 (30 
     U.S.C. 3023(b)) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``permanent''; and
       (2) by striking ``the officer's commission shall be revoked 
     and''.

     SEC. 708. REPEAL OF LIMITATION ON EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE.

       (a) In General.--Section 204 of the National Oceanic and 
     Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps 
     Amendments Act of 2020 (33 U.S.C. 3079-1) is repealed.
       (b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of contents in section 
     1(b) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
     Commissioned Officer Corps Amendments Act of 2020 (Public Law 
     116-259; 134 Stat. 1153) is amended by striking the item 
     relating to section 204.

     SEC. 709. DISPOSAL OF SURVEY AND RESEARCH VESSELS AND 
                   EQUIPMENT OF THE NATIONAL OCEANIC AND 
                   ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION.

       Section 548 of title 40, United States Code, is amended--
       (1) by striking ``The Maritime'' and inserting ``(a) In 
     General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), the 
     Maritime''; and
       (2) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(b) National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 
     Vessels and Equipment.--
       ``(1) Authority.--The Administrator of the National Oceanic 
     and Atmospheric Administration may dispose of covered vessels 
     and equipment, which would otherwise be disposed of under 
     subsection (a), through sales or transfers under this title.
       ``(2) Use of proceeds.--During the 2-year period beginning 
     of the date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act 
     of 2025, notwithstanding section 571 of this title or

[[Page S1567]]

     section 3302 of title 31, the Administrator of the National 
     Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration may--
       ``(A) retain the proceeds from the sale or transfer of a 
     covered vessel or equipment under paragraph (1) until 
     expended under subparagraph (B); and
       ``(B) use such proceeds, without fiscal year limitation, 
     for the acquisition of new covered vessels and equipment or 
     the repair and maintenance of existing covered vessels and 
     equipment.
       ``(3) Covered vessels and equipment defined.--In this 
     subsection, the term `covered vessels and equipment' means 
     survey and research vessels and related equipment owned by 
     the Federal Government and under the control of the National 
     Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.''.

             Subtitle B--South Pacific Tuna Treaty Matters

     SEC. 721. REFERENCES TO SOUTH PACIFIC TUNA ACT OF 1988.

        Except as otherwise expressly provided, wherever in this 
     subtitle an amendment or repeal is expressed in terms of an 
     amendment to, or repeal of, a section or other provision, the 
     reference shall be considered to be made to a section or 
     other provision of the South Pacific Tuna Act of 1988 (16 
     U.S.C. 973 et seq.).

     SEC. 722. DEFINITIONS.

       (a) Applicable National Law.--Section 2(4) (16 U.S.C. 
     973(4)) is amended by striking ``described in paragraph 1(a) 
     of Annex I of'' and inserting ``noticed and in effect in 
     accordance with''.
       (b) Closed Area.--Section 2(5) (16 U.S.C. 973(5)) is 
     amended by striking ``of the closed areas identified in 
     Schedule 2 of Annex I of'' and inserting ``area within the 
     jurisdiction of a Pacific Island Party that is closed to 
     vessels pursuant to a national law of that Pacific Island 
     Party and is noticed and in effect in accordance with''.
       (c) Fishing.--Section 2(6) (16 U.S.C. 973(6)) is amended--
       (1) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ``for any purpose'' 
     after ``harvesting of fish''; and
       (2) by amending subparagraph (F) to read as follows:
       ``(F) use of any other vessel, vehicle, aircraft, or 
     hovercraft for any activity described in this paragraph 
     except for emergencies involving the health or safety of the 
     crew or the safety of a vessel.''.
       (d) Fishing Vessel; Vessel.--Section 2(7) (16 U.S.C. 
     973(7)) is amended by striking ``commercial fishing'' and 
     inserting ``commercial purse seine fishing for tuna''.
       (e) Licensing Area.--Section 2(8) (16 U.S.C. 973(8)) is 
     amended by striking ``in the Treaty Area'' and all that 
     follows and inserting ``under the jurisdiction of a Pacific 
     Island Party, except for internal waters, territorial seas, 
     archipelagic waters, and any Closed Area.''.
       (f) Limited Area; Party; Treaty Area.--Section 2 (16 U.S.C. 
     973) is amended--
       (1) by striking paragraphs (10), (13), and (18);
       (2) by redesignating paragraphs (11) and (12) as paragraphs 
     (10) and (11), respectively;
       (3) by redesignating paragraph (14) as paragraph (12); and
       (4) by redesignating paragraphs (15) through (17) as 
     paragraphs (14) through (16), respectively.
       (g) Regional Terms and Conditions.--Section 2 (16 U.S.C. 
     973) is amended by inserting after paragraph (12), as 
     redesignated by subsection (f)(3), the following:
       ``(13) The term `regional terms and conditions' means any 
     of the terms or conditions attached by the Administrator to a 
     license issued by the Administrator, as notified by the 
     Secretary.''.

     SEC. 723. PROHIBITED ACTS.

       (a) In General.--Section 5(a) (16 U.S.C. 973c(a)) is 
     amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 
     ``Except as provided in section 6 of this Act, it'' and 
     inserting ``It'';
       (2) by striking paragraphs (3) and (4);
       (3) by redesignating paragraphs (5) through (13) as 
     paragraphs (3) through (11), respectively;
       (4) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated, by inserting ``, 
     except in accordance with an agreement pursuant to the 
     Treaty'' after ``Closed Area'';
       (5) in paragraph (10), as so redesignated, by striking 
     ``or'' at the end;
       (6) in paragraph (11), as so redesignated, by striking the 
     period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and
       (7) by adding at the end the following:
       ``(12) to violate any of the regional terms and conditions; 
     or
       ``(13) to violate any limit on an authorized fishing effort 
     or catch.''.
       (b) In the Licensing Area.--Section 5(b) (16 U.S.C. 
     973c(b)) is amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 
     ``Except as provided in section 6 of this Act, it'' and 
     inserting ``It'';
       (2) by striking paragraph (5); and
       (3) by redesignating paragraphs (6) and (7) as paragraphs 
     (5) and (6), respectively.

     SEC. 724. EXCEPTIONS.

       Section 6 (16 U.S.C. 973d) is repealed.

     SEC. 725. CRIMINAL OFFENSES.

       Section 7(a) (16 U.S.C. 973e(a)) is amended by striking 
     ``section 5(a) (8), (10), (11), or (12)'' and inserting 
     ``paragraph (6), (8), (9), or (10) of section 5(a)''.

     SEC. 726. CIVIL PENALTIES.

       (a) Amount.--Section 8(a) (16 U.S.C. 973f(a)) is amended--
       (1) in the first sentence, by striking ``Code'' after 
     ``liable to the United States''; and
       (2) in the fourth sentence, by striking ``Except for those 
     acts prohibited by section 5(a) (4), (5), (7), (8), (10), 
     (11), and (12), and section 5(b) (1), (2), (3), and (7) of 
     this Act, the'' and inserting ``The''.
       (b) Waiver of Referral to Attorney General.--Section 8(g) 
     (16 U.S.C. 973f(g)) is amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking 
     ``section 5(a)(1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (9), or 
     (13)'' and inserting ``paragraph (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), 
     (6), (7), (11), (12), or (13) of section 5(a)''; and
       (2) in paragraph (2), by striking ``, all Limited Areas 
     closed to fishing,'' after ``outside of the Licensing Area''.

     SEC. 727. LICENSES.

       (a) Forwarding of Vessel License Application.--Section 9(b) 
     (16 U.S.C. 973g(b)) is amended to read as follows:
       ``(b) In accordance with subsection (e), and except as 
     provided in subsection (f), the Secretary shall forward a 
     vessel license application to the Administrator whenever such 
     application is in accordance with application procedures 
     established by the Secretary.''.
       (b) Fees and Schedules.--Section 9(c) (16 U.S.C. 973g(c)) 
     is amended to read as follows:
       ``(c) Fees required under the Treaty shall be paid in 
     accordance with the Treaty and any procedures established by 
     the Secretary.''.
       (c) Minimum Fees Required to Be Received in Initial Year; 
     Grounds for Denial of Forwarding of License Application; 
     Grandfathering of Certain Vessels.--Section 9 (16 U.S.C. 
     973g) is amended--
       (1) by striking subsection (f);
       (2) by redesignating subsections (g) and (h) as subsections 
     (f) and (g), respectively;
       (3) by amending subsection (f), as so redesignated, to read 
     as follows:
       ``(f) The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of 
     State, may determine that a license application should not be 
     forwarded to the Administrator if--
       ``(1) the application is not in accordance with the Treaty 
     or the procedures established by the Secretary; or
       ``(2) the owner or charterer--
       ``(A) is the subject of proceedings under the bankruptcy 
     laws of the United States, unless reasonable financial 
     assurances have been provided to the Secretary;
       ``(B) has not established to the satisfaction of the 
     Secretary that the fishing vessel is fully insured against 
     all risks and liabilities normally provided in maritime 
     liability insurance; or
       ``(C) has not paid any penalty which has become final, 
     assessed by the Secretary in accordance with this Act.''; and
       (4) in subsection (g), as redesignated by paragraph (2)--
       (A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
       ``(1) section 12113 of title 46, United States Code;'';
       (B) in paragraph (2), by inserting ``of 1972'' after 
     ``Marine Mammal Protection Act'';
       (C) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``of 1972'' after 
     ``Marine Mammal Protection Act''; and
       (D) in the matter following paragraph (3), by striking 
     ``any vessel documented'' and all that follows and inserting 
     the following:
       ``any vessel documented under the laws of the United States 
     as of the date of enactment of the Fisheries Act of 1995 
     (Public Law 104-43) for which a license has been issued under 
     subsection (a) may fish for tuna in the Licensing Area, and 
     on the high seas and in waters subject to the jurisdiction of 
     the United States west of 146 west longitude and east of 
     129.5 east longitude in accordance with international law, 
     subject to the provisions of the Treaty, this Act, and other 
     applicable law, provided that no such vessel intentionally 
     deploys a purse seine net to encircle any dolphin or other 
     marine mammal in the course of fishing.''.

     SEC. 728. ENFORCEMENT.

       (a) Notice Requirements to Pacific Island Party Concerning 
     Institution of Legal Proceedings.--Section 10(c)(1) (16 
     U.S.C. 973h(c)(1)) is amended--
       (1) in the first sentence, by striking ``paragraph 8 of 
     Article 4 of''; and
       (2) in the third sentence, by striking ``Article 10 of''.
       (b) Searches and Seizures by Authorized Officers.--Section 
     10(d)(1)(A) (16 U.S.C. 973h(d)(1)(A)) is amended--
       (1) in clause (ii), by striking ``or'' at the end; and
       (2) in clause (iii), by adding ``or'' at the end.

     SEC. 729. FINDINGS BY SECRETARY OF COMMERCE.

       (a) Order of Vessel To Leave Waters Upon Failure To Submit 
     to Jurisdiction of Pacific Island Party; Procedure 
     Applicable.--Section 11(a) (16 U.S.C. 973i(a)) is amended--
       (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``, 
     all Limited Areas,'';
       (2) in paragraph (1)--
       (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``paragraph 2 of 
     Article 3 of''; and
       (B) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``within the Treaty 
     Area'' and inserting ``under the jurisdiction''; and
       (3) in paragraph (2)--
       (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``section 5 (a)(4), 
     (a)(5), (b)(2), or (b)(3)'' and inserting ``paragraph (3) of 
     section 5(a) or paragraph (2) or (3) of section 5(b)'';
       (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``section 5(b)(7)'' 
     and inserting ``section 5(b)(6)''; and

[[Page S1568]]

       (C) in subparagraph (C), by striking ``section 5(a)(7)'' 
     and inserting ``section 5(a)(5)''.
       (b) Order of Vessel To Leave Waters Where Pacific Island 
     Party Investigating Alleged Treaty Infringement.--Section 
     11(b) (16 U.S.C. 973i(b)) is amended by striking ``paragraph 
     7 of Article 5 of''.

     SEC. 730. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION.

       Section 12 (16 U.S.C. 973j) is amended to read as follows:

     ``SEC. 12. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION.

       ``(a) Prohibited Disclosure of Certain Information.--
     Pursuant to section 552(b)(3) of title 5, United States Code, 
     except as provided in subsection (b), the Secretary shall 
     keep confidential and may not disclose the following 
     information:
       ``(1) Information provided to the Secretary by the 
     Administrator that the Administrator has designated 
     confidential.
       ``(2) Information collected by observers.
       ``(3) Information submitted to the Secretary by any person 
     in compliance with the requirements of this Act.
       ``(b) Authorized Disclosure of Certain Information.--The 
     Secretary may disclose information described in subsection 
     (a)--
       ``(1) if disclosure is ordered by a court;
       ``(2) if the information is used by a Federal employee--
       ``(A) for enforcement; or
       ``(B) in support of the homeland security missions and non-
     homeland security missions of the Coast Guard as defined in 
     section 888 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 
     468);
       ``(3) if the information is used by a Federal employee or 
     an employee of a Fishery Management Council for the 
     administration of the Treaty or fishery management and 
     monitoring;
       ``(4) to the Administrator, in accordance with the 
     requirements of the Treaty and this Act;
       ``(5) to the secretariat or equivalent of an international 
     fisheries management organization of which the United States 
     is a member, in accordance with the requirements or decisions 
     of such organization, and insofar as possible, in accordance 
     with an agreement that prevents public disclosure of the 
     identity of any person that submits such information;
       ``(6) if the Secretary has obtained written authorization 
     from the person providing such information, and disclosure 
     does not violate other requirements of this Act; or
       ``(7) in an aggregate or summary form that does not 
     directly or indirectly disclose the identity of any person 
     that submits such information.
       ``(c) Savings Clause.--
       ``(1) Nothing in this section shall be construed to 
     adversely affect the authority of Congress, including a 
     Committee or Member thereof, to obtain any record or 
     information.
       ``(2) The absence of a provision similar to paragraph (1) 
     in any other provision of law shall not be construed to limit 
     the ability of the Senate or the House of Representatives, 
     including a Committee or Member thereof, to obtain any record 
     or information.''.

     SEC. 731. CLOSED AREA STOWAGE REQUIREMENTS.

       Section 13 (16 U.S.C. 973k) is amended by striking ``. In 
     particular, the boom shall be lowered'' and all that follows 
     and inserting ``and in accordance with any requirements 
     established by the Secretary.''.

     SEC. 732. OBSERVERS.

       Section 14 (16 U.S.C. 973l) is repealed.

     SEC. 733. FISHERIES-RELATED ASSISTANCE.

       Section 15 (16 U.S.C. 973m) is amended to read as follows:

     ``SEC. 15. FISHERIES-RELATED ASSISTANCE.

       ``The Secretary and the Secretary of State may provide 
     assistance to a Pacific Island Party to benefit such Pacific 
     Island Party from the development of fisheries resources and 
     the operation of fishing vessels that are licensed pursuant 
     to the Treaty, including--
       ``(1) technical assistance;
       ``(2) training and capacity building opportunities;
       ``(3) facilitation of the implementation of private sector 
     activities or partnerships; and
       ``(4) other activities as determined appropriate by the 
     Secretary and the Secretary of State.''.

     SEC. 734. ARBITRATION.

       Section 16 (16 U.S.C. 973n) is amended--
       (1) by striking ``Article 6 of'' after ``arbitral tribunal 
     under''; and
       (2) by striking ``paragraph 3 of that Article'' and all 
     that follows through ``under such paragraph'' and inserting 
     ``the Treaty, shall determine the location of the 
     arbitration, and shall represent the United States in 
     reaching agreement under the Treaty''.

     SEC. 735. DISPOSITION OF FEES, PENALTIES, FORFEITURES, AND 
                   OTHER MONEYS.

       Section 17 (16 U.S.C. 973o) is amended by striking 
     ``Article 4 of''.

     SEC. 736. ADDITIONAL AGREEMENTS.

       Section 18 (16 U.S.C. 973p) is amended by striking ``Within 
     30 days after'' and all that follows and inserting ``The 
     Secretary may establish procedures for review of any 
     agreements for additional fishing access entered into 
     pursuant to the Treaty.''.

                       Subtitle C--Other Matters

     SEC. 741. NORTH PACIFIC RESEARCH BOARD ENHANCEMENT.

       (a) Short Title.--This section may be cited as the ``North 
     Pacific Research Board Enhancement Act''.
       (b) Amendments.--Section 401(e) of the Department of the 
     Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998 (43 
     U.S.C. 1474d(e)) is amended--
       (1) in paragraph (3)--
       (A) in subparagraph (L), by striking ``and'' after the 
     semicolon;
       (B) in subparagraph (M), by striking the period at the end 
     and inserting a semicolon;
       (C) in subparagraph (N), by striking the period at the end 
     and inserting ``; and'';
       (D) by inserting after subparagraph (N) the following:
       ``(O) one member who shall represent Alaska Natives and 
     possesses personal knowledge of, and direct experience with, 
     subsistence uses and shall be nominated by the Board and 
     appointed by the Secretary.''; and
       (E) by adding at the end the following: ``Board members 
     appointed under subparagraphs (N) and (O) shall serve for 3-
     year terms, and may be reappointed once.'';
       (2) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (6); and
       (3) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:
       ``(5) If the amount made available for a fiscal year under 
     subsection (c)(2) is less than the amount made available in 
     the previous fiscal year, the Administrator of the National 
     Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration may increase the 15 
     percent cap on administrative expenses provided under 
     paragraph (4)(B) for that fiscal year to prioritize--
       ``(A) continuing operation of the Board;
       ``(B) maximizing the percentage of funds directed to 
     research; and
       ``(C) maintaining the highest quality standards in 
     administering grants under this subsection.''.
       (c) Waiver.--Beginning on the date of enactment of this Act 
     and ending on the date that is 5 years after such date of 
     enactment, the 15 percent cap on funds to provide support for 
     the North Pacific Research Board and administer grants under 
     section 401(e)(4)(B) of the Department of the Interior and 
     Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 1998 (43 U.S.C. 
     1474d(e)(4)(B)) shall be waived.

  Mr. CRUZ. I yield the floor.

                          ____________________