Austin News

The U.S. Senate Commerce Committee has introduced the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, a bipartisan effort led by Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.). The legislation aims to enhance the Coast Guard's capacity in border security, maritime commerce, and law enforcement.

Senator Cruz highlighted the role of the Coast Guard in preventing illegal immigration and drug trafficking, stating that "our bipartisan, bicameral bill would make it easier for Coast Guardsmen to accomplish their mission of protecting America at sea." He noted that the bill will strengthen marine resources in Texas and increase cooperation with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Senator Cantwell emphasized reforms aimed at preventing sexual assault within the Coast Guard: "The bill drives much-needed reforms that will help prevent sexual assault and sexual harassment throughout the Coast Guard." She also pointed out increased funding for core missions such as shipbuilding.

According to Senator Sullivan, "Our bipartisan bill ensures that the men and women of the Coast Guard have the resources, equipment, and support needed to carry out their critical missions." He stressed Alaska's unique needs due to its extensive coastline.

Senator Baldwin stated that "our bipartisan legislation will help protect thousands of American jobs and lives," focusing on strengthening icebreaking capabilities on the Great Lakes and combating fentanyl trafficking. The bill also seeks to improve access to housing and health care for Coast Guard members.

Key enhancements under this act include expanded efforts against illicit drug trafficking, upgrading icebreaker fleets, addressing negligent vessel operations, mapping Arctic routes, improving deterrence capabilities against illegal fishing operations in international waters, refining procedures for handling sexual assaults within the service, studying safety infrastructure at the Coast Guard Academy, and increasing units in its Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps program.

In Texas specifically, provisions allow for performance-driven inspections of foreign vessels, establishment of safety zones for space activities, streamlined data sharing with Customs and Border Protection using tactical maritime surveillance systems on South Padre Island, among other initiatives.