,,ii #aagth ,,congress #b;d ,session ,s4 #dhjb ,,in ,,the ,,senate ,,of ,,the ,,united ,,states ,september #h1 #bjbb,ms4 ,cantwell 7for herself1 ,mr4 ,wicker1 and ,ms4 ,baldwin7 introduced the following bill2 which was read twice and referred to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation ,a ,,bill ,to authorize appropriations for the ,coast ,guard1 and for other purposes4 #a4 ,short title2 table of contents 7a7 ,short title ,this ,act may be cited as the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb4 7b7 ,table of contents ,the table of contents for this ,act is as follows3 ,sec4 #a4 ,short title2 table of contents4,sec4 #b4 ,definition of ,commandant4,,title ,i--,authorizations,sec4 #aja4 ,authorization of appropriations4,sec4 #ajb4 ,authorized levels of military strength and training4,sec4 #ajc4 ,authorization for shoreside infrastructure and facilities4,sec4 #ajd4 ,authorization for acquisition of vessels4,sec4 #aje4 ,authorization for the childcare subsidy program4,,title ,,ii--,coast ,guard,subtitle ,a--,infrastructure and assets,sec4 #bja4 ,report on shoreside infrastructure and facilities needs4,sec4 #bjb4 ,fleet mix analysis and shore infrastructure investment plan4,sec4 #bjc4 ,acquisition life-cycle cost estimates4,sec4 #bjd4 ,report and briefing on resourcing strategy for ,western ,pacific ,region4,sec4 #bje4 ,study and report on national security and drug trafficking threats in the ,florida ,straits and ,caribbean region1 including ,cuba4,sec4 #bjf4 ,coast ,guard ,yard4,sec4 #bjg4 ,authority to enter into transactions other than contracts and grants to procure cost-effective technology for mission needs4,sec4 #bjh4 ,improvements to infrastructure and operations planning4,subtitle ,b--,great ,lakes,sec4 #baa4 ,great ,lakes winter commerce4,sec4 #bab4 ,database on icebreaking operations in the ,great ,lakes4,sec4 #bac4 ,great ,lakes snowmobile acquisition plan4,sec4 #bad4 ,great ,lakes barge inspection exemption4,sec4 #bae4 ,study on sufficiency of ,coast ,guard aviation assets to meet mission demands4,subtitle ,c--,arctic,sec4 #bba4 ,establishment of the ,arctic ,security ,cutter ,program ,office4,sec4 #bbb4 ,arctic activities4,sec4 #bbc4 ,study on ,arctic operations and infrastructure4,subtitle ,d--,maritime cyber and artificial intelligence,sec4 #bca4 ,enhancing maritime cybersecurity4,sec4 #bcb4 ,establishment of unmanned system program and autonomous control and computer vision technology project4,sec4 #bcc4 ,artificial intelligence strategy4,sec4 #bcd4 ,review of artificial intelligence applications and establishment of performance metrics4,sec4 #bce4 ,cyber data management4,sec4 #bcf4 ,data management4,sec4 #bcg4 ,study on cyber threats to the ,united ,states marine transportation system4,subtitle ,e--,aviation,sec4 #bda4 ,space-available travel on ,coast ,guard aircraft3 program authorization and eligible recipients4,sec4 #bdb4 ,report on ,coast ,guard ,air ,station ,barbers ,point hangar4,sec4 #bdc4 ,study on the operational availability of ,coast ,guard aircraft and strategy for ,coast ,guard aviation4,subtitle ,f--,workforce readiness,sec4 #bea4 ,authorized strength4,sec4 #beb4 ,number and distribution of officers on active duty promotion list4,sec4 #bec4 ,continuation on active duty of officers with critical skills4,sec4 #bed4 ,career incentive pay for marine inspectors4,sec4 #bee4 ,expansion of the ability for selection board to recommend officers of particular merit for promotion4,sec4 #bef4 ,pay and allowances for certain members of the ,coast ,guard during funding gap4,sec4 #beg4 ,modification to education loan repayment program4,sec4 #beh4 ,retirement of ,vice ,commandant4,sec4 #bei4 ,report on resignation and retirement processing times and denial4,sec4 #bfj4 ,calculation of active service4,sec4 #bfa4 ,physical disability evaluation system procedure review4,sec4 #bfb4 ,expansion of authority for multirater assessments of certain personnel4,sec4 #bfc4 ,promotion parity4,sec4 #bfd4 ,partnership program to diversify the ,coast ,guard4,sec4 #bfe4 ,expansion of ,coast ,guard ,junior ,reserve ,officers' ,training ,corps4,sec4 #bff4 ,improving representation of women and racial and ethnic minorities among ,coast ,guard active-duty members4,sec4 #bfg4 ,strategy to enhance diversity through recruitment and accession4,sec4 #bfh4 ,support for ,coast ,guard ,academy4,sec4 #bfi4 ,training for congressional affairs personnel4,sec4 #bgj4 ,strategy for retention of cuttermen4,sec4 #bga4 ,study on extremism in the ,coast ,guard4,sec4 #bgb4 ,study on performance of ,coast ,guard ,force ,readiness ,command4,sec4 #bgc4 ,study on frequency of weapons training for ,coast ,guard personnel4,subtitle ,g--,miscellaneous provisions,sec4 #bha4 ,budgeting of ,coast ,guard relating to certain operations4,sec4 #bhb4 ,coast ,guard assistance to ,united ,states ,secret ,service4,sec4 #bhc4 ,conveyance of ,coast ,guard vessels for public purposes4,sec4 #bhd4 ,coast ,guard intelligence activities and emergency and extraordinary expenses4,sec4 #bhe4 ,transfer and conveyance4,sec4 #bhf4 ,transparency and oversight4,sec4 #bhg4 ,study on safety inspection program for containers and facilities4,,title ,,iii--,environment,sec4 #cja4 ,definition of ,secretary4,subtitle ,a--,marine mammals,sec4 #caa4 ,definitions4,sec4 #cab4 ,assistance to ports to reduce the impacts of vessel traffic and port operations on marine mammals4,sec4 #cac4 ,near real-time monitoring and mitigation program for large cetaceans4,sec4 #cad4 ,pilot program to establish a ,cetacean ,desk for ,puget ,sound region4,sec4 #cae4 ,monitoring ocean soundscapes4,subtitle ,b--,oil spills,sec4 #cba4 ,improving oil spill preparedness4,sec4 #cbb4 ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria4,sec4 #cbc4 ,accident and incident notification relating to pipelines4,sec4 #cbd4 ,coast ,guard claims processing costs4,sec4 #cbe4 ,calculation of interest on debt owed to the national pollution fund4,sec4 #cbf4 ,per-incident limitation4,sec4 #cbg4 ,access to the ,oil ,spill ,liability ,trust ,fund4,sec4 #cbh4 ,cost-reimbursable agreements4,sec4 #cbi4 ,oil spill response review4,sec4 #ccj4 ,review and report on limited indemnity provisions in standby oil spill response contracts4,sec4 #cca4 ,additional exceptions to regulations for towing vessels4,subtitle ,c--,environmental compliance,sec4 #cda4 ,review of anchorage regulations4,sec4 #cdb4 ,study on impacts on shipping and commercial1 ,tribal1 and recreational fisheries from the development of renewable energy on the ,west ,coast4,subtitle ,d--,environmental issues,sec4 #cea4 ,modifications to the ,sport ,fish ,restoration and ,boating ,trust ,fund administration4,sec4 #ceb4 ,improvements to ,coast ,guard communication with ,north ,pacific maritime and fishing industry4,sec4 #cec4 ,fishing safety training grants program4,sec4 #ced4 ,load lines4,subtitle ,e--,illegal fishing and forced labor prevention,sec4 #cfa4 ,definitions4,chapter #a--;,combating ,human ,trafficking ,through ,seafood ,import ,monitoring,sec4 #cfb4 ,enhancement of ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program ,automated ,commercial ,environment ,message ,set4,sec4 #cfc4 ,data sharing and aggregation4,sec4 #cfd4 ,import audits4,sec4 #cfe4 ,availability of fisheries information4,sec4 #cff4 ,authority to hold fish products4,sec4 #cfg4 ,report on ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program4,sec4 #cfh4 ,authorization of appropriations4,chapter #b--,strengthening international fisheries management ,to combat human trafficking,sec4 #cgj4 ,denial of port privileges4,sec4 #cga4 ,identification and certification criteria4,sec4 #cgb4 ,equivalent conservation measures4,sec4 #cgc4 ,capacity building in foreign fisheries4,sec4 #cgd4 ,training of ,united ,states observers4,sec4 #cge4 ,regulations4,,title ,,iv--,support for ,coast ,guard workforce,subtitle ,a--,support for ,coast ,guard members and families,sec4 #dja4 ,coast ,guard child care improvements4,sec4 #djb4 ,armed ,forces access to ,coast ,guard child care facilities4,sec4 #djc4 ,cadet pregnancy policy improvements4,sec4 #djd4 ,pilot program for fertility treatments4,sec4 #dje4 ,combat-related special compensation4,sec4 #djf4 ,restoration of amounts improperly withheld for tax purposes from severance payments to veterans of the ,coast ,guard with combat-related injuries4,sec4 #djg4 ,modification of basic needs allowance for members of the ,coast ,guard4,sec4 #djh4 ,study on food security4,subtitle ,b--,healthcare,sec4 #dba4 ,development of medical staffing standards for the ,coast ,guard4,sec4 #dbb4 ,healthcare system review and strategic plan4,sec4 #dbc4 ,data collection and access to care4,sec4 #dbd4 ,behavioral health policy4,sec4 #dbe4 ,members asserting post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury4,sec4 #dbf4 ,improvements to the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system and transition program4,sec4 #dbg4 ,expansion of access to counseling4,sec4 #dbh4 ,expansion of postgraduate opportunities for members of the ,coast ,guard in medical and related fields4,sec4 #dbi4 ,study on ,coast ,guard telemedicine program4,sec4 #dcj4 ,study on ,coast ,guard medical facilities needs4,subtitle ,c--,housing,sec4 #dda4 ,strategy to improve quality of life at remote units4,sec4 #ddb4 ,study on ,coast ,guard housing access1 cost1 and challenges4,subtitle ,d--,other matters,sec4 #dea4 ,report on availability of emergency supplies for ,coast ,guard personnel4,,title ,v--,maritime,subtitle ,a--,vessel safety,sec4 #eja4 ,abandoned ,seafarer ,fund amendments4,sec4 #ejb4 ,receipts2 international agreements for ice patrol services4,sec4 #ejc4 ,passenger vessel security and safety requirements4,sec4 #ejd4 ,at-sea recovery operations pilot program4,sec4 #eje4 ,exoneration and limitation of liability for small passenger vessels4,sec4 #ejf4 ,moratorium on towing vessel inspection user fees4,sec4 #ejg4 ,certain historic passenger vessels4,sec4 #ejh4 ,coast ,guard digital registration4,sec4 #eji4 ,responses to safety recommendations4,sec4 #eaj4 ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states study and report on the ,coast ,guard's oversight of third-party organizations4,subtitle ,b--,other matters,sec4 #eba4 ,definition of a stateless vessel4,sec4 #ebb4 ,report on enforcement of coastwise laws4,sec4 #ebc4 ,study on multi-level supply chain security strategy of the ,department of ,homeland ,security4,sec4 #ebd4 ,study to modernize the merchant mariner licensing and documentation system4,sec4 #ebe4 ,study and report on development and maintenance of mariner records database4,,title ,,vi--,sexual assault and sexual harassment prevention and response,sec4 #fja4 ,definitions4,sec4 #fjb4 ,convicted sex offender as grounds for denial4,sec4 #fjc4 ,accommodation2 notices4,sec4 #fjd4 ,protection against discrimination4,sec4 #fje4 ,alcohol at sea4,sec4 #fjf4 ,sexual harassment or sexual assault as grounds for suspension and revocation4,sec4 #fjg4 ,surveillance requirements4,sec4 #fjh4 ,master key control4,sec4 #fji4 ,safety management systems4,sec4 #faj4 ,requirement to report sexual assault and harassment4,sec4 #faa4 ,civil actions for personal injury or death of seamen4,sec4 #fab4 ,administration of sexual assault forensic examination kits4,sec4 #fac4 ,reports to ,congress4,sec4 #fad4 ,policy on requests for permanent changes of station or unit transfers by persons who report being the victim of sexual assault4,sec4 #fae4 ,sex offenses and personnel records4,sec4 #faf4 ,study on ,coast ,guard oversight and investigations4,sec4 #fag4 ,study on ,special ,victims' ,counsel program4,,title ,,vii--,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration,subtitle ,a--,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps,sec4 #gja4 ,definitions4,sec4 #gjb4 ,requirement for appointments4,sec4 #gjc4 ,repeal of requirement to promote ensigns after #c years of service4,sec4 #gjd4 ,authority to provide awards and decorations4,sec4 #gje4 ,retirement and separation4,sec4 #gjf4 ,licensure of health-care professionals4,sec4 #gjg4 ,improving professional mariner staffing4,sec4 #gjh4 ,legal assistance4,sec4 #gji4 ,acquisition of aircraft for extreme weather reconnaissance4,sec4 #gaj4 ,report on professional mariner staffing models4,subtitle ,b--,other ,matters,sec4 #gaa4 ,conveyance of certain property of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration in ,juneau1 ,alaska4,,title ,,viii--,technical1 conforming1 and clarifying amendments ,sec4 #hja4 ,technical corrections4,sec4 #hjb4 ,reinstatement4,sec4 #hjc4 ,terms and vacancies4 #b4 ,definition of ,commandant ,in this ,act1 the term ,commandant means the ,commandant of the ,coast ,guard4 ,i ,authorizations #aja4 ,authorization of appropriations ,section #dijb of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in the matter preceding paragraph 7#a71 by striking fiscal years #bjbj and #bjba and inserting fiscal years #bjbb and #bjbc2 7#b7 in paragraph 7#a7-- 7,a7 in subparagraph 7,a71 by striking clauses 7i7 and 7ii7 and inserting the following3 7i7 #aj1jjj1jjj1jjj for fiscal year #bjbb2 and 7ii7 #aj1gej1jjj1jjj for fiscal year #bjbc4 2 7,b7 in subparagraph 7,b71 by striking #ag1jce1jjj and inserting #bc1def1jjj2 and 7,c7 in subparagraph 7,c71 by striking 1 7,a77ii7 #ag1cgf1jjj and inserting 7,a77ii71 #bd1cec1jjj2 7#c7 in paragraph 7#b7-- 7,a7 in subparagraph 7,a71 by striking clauses 7i7 and 7ii7 and inserting the following3 7i7 #b1dei1ajj1jjj for fiscal year #bjbb2 and 7ii7 #c1dgg1fjj1jjj for fiscal year #bjbc4 2 and 7,b7 in subparagraph 7,b71 by striking clauses 7i7 and 7ii7 and inserting the following3 7i7 #bj1djj1jjj for fiscal year #bjbb2 and 7ii7 #bj1hjh1jjj for fiscal year #bjbc4 2 7#d7 in paragraph 7#c71 by striking subparagraphs 7,a7 and 7,b7 and inserting the following3 7,a7 #g1dgf1jjj for fiscal year #bjbb2 and 7,b7 #ad1fha1jhd for fiscal year #bjbc4 2 and 7#e7 in paragraph 7#d71 by striking subparagraphs 7,a7 and 7,b7 and inserting the following3 7,a7 #bdj1egg1jjj for fiscal year #bjbb2 and 7,b7 #beb1hhg1jjj for fiscal year #bjbc4 4 #ajb4 ,authorized levels of military strength and training ,section #dijd of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in subsection 7a71 by striking fiscal years #bjbj and #bjba and inserting fiscal years #bjbb and #bjbc2 and 7#b7 in subsection 7b71 in the matter preceding paragraph 7#a71 by striking fiscal years #bjbj and #bjba and inserting fiscal years #bjbb and #bjbc4 #ajc4 ,authorization for shoreside infrastructure and facilities 7a7 ,in general ,in addition to the amounts authorized to be appropriated under section #dijb7b77;,a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 as amended by section #aja of this ,act1 for fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbh-- 7#a7 #c1jjj1jjj1jjj is authorized to fund maintenance1 new construction1 and repairs needed for ,coast ,guard shoreside infrastructure2 7#b7 #afj1jjj1jjj is authorized to fund phase two of the recapitalization project at ,coast ,guard ,training ,center ,cape ,may in ,cape ,may1 ,new ,jersey1 to improve recruitment and training of a diverse ,coast ,guard workforce2 and 7#c7 #hj1jjj1jjj is authorized for the construction of additional new childcare development centers not constructed using funds authorized by the ,infrastructure ,investment and ,jobs ,act 7,public ,law #aag-eh2 #ace ,stat4 #dbi74 7b7 ,coast ,guard ,yard resilient infrastructure and construction improvement ,in addition to the amounts authorized to be appropriated under section #dijb7b77;,a77ii7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 as amended by section #aja of this ,act-- 7#a7 #djj1jjj1jjj is authorized for fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbh for the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating for the purposes of improvements to facilities of the ,yard2 and 7#b7 #bcf1jjj1jjj is authorized for the acquisition of a new floating drydock1 to remain available until expended4 #ajd4 ,authorization for acquisition of vessels ,in addition to the amounts authorized to be appropriated under section #dijb7b77;,a77ii7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 as amended by section #aja of this ,act1 for fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbh-- 7#a7 #cej1jjj1jjj is authorized for the acquisition of a ,great ,lakes icebreaker that is at least as capable as ,coast ,guard cutter ,mackinaw 7,,wlbb-#cj72 7#b7 #agb1ejj1jjj is authorized for the program management1 design1 and acquisition of #ab ,pacific ,northwest heavy weather boats that are at least as capable as the ,coast ,guard #eb-;foot motor surfboat2 7#c7 #hda1jjj1jjj is authorized for the third ,polar ,security ,cutter2 7#d7 #bj1jjj1jjj is authorized for initiation of activities to support acquisition of the ,arctic ,security ,cutter class1 including program planning and requirements development to include the establishment of an ,arctic ,security ,cutter ,program ,office2 7#e7 #fej1jjj1jjj is authorized for the continued acquisition of ,offshore ,patrol ,cutters2 and 7#f7 #fej1jjj1jjj is authorized for a twelfth ,national ,security ,cutter4 #aje4 ,authorization for the childcare subsidy program ,in addition to the amounts authorized to be appropriated under section #dijb7a77;,a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 #be1jjj1jjj is authorized to the ,commandant for each of fiscal years #bjbc and #bjbd for the childcare subsidy program4 ,,ii ,coast ,guard ,a ,infrastructure and assets #bja4 ,report on shoreside infrastructure and facilities needs ,not less frequently than annually1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report that includes-- 7#a7 a detailed list of shoreside infrastructure needs for all ,coast ,guard facilities located within each ,coast ,guard ,district in the order of priority1 including recapitalization1 maintenance needs in excess of #be1jjj1 and other shoreside infrastructure needs of the ,coast ,guard2 7#b7 the estimated cost of projects to fulfill such needs1 to the extent available2 and 7#c7 a general description of the state of planning for each such project4 #bjb4 ,fleet mix analysis and shore infrastructure investment plan 7a7 ,fleet mix analysis 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall conduct an updated fleet mix analysis that provides for a fleet mix sufficient1 as determined by the ,commandant-- 7,a7 to carry out-- 7i7 the missions of the ,coast ,guard2 and 7ii7 emerging mission requirements2 and 7,b7 to address-- 7i7 national security threats2 and 7ii7 the global deployment of the ,coast ,guard to counter great power competitors4 7#b7 ,report ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to ,congress a report on the results of the updated fleet mix analysis required by paragraph 7#a74 7b7 ,shore infrastructure investment plan 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall develop an updated shore infrastructure investment plan that includes-- 7,a7 the construction of additional facilities to accommodate the updated fleet mix described in subsection 7a77#a72 7,b7 improvements necessary to ensure that existing facilities meet requirements and remain operational for the lifespan of such fleet mix1 including necessary improvements to information technology infrastructure2 7,c7 a timeline for the construction and improvement of the facilities described in subparagraphs 7,a7 and 7,b72 and 7,d7 a cost estimate for construction and life-cycle support of such facilities1 including for necessary personnel4 7#b7 ,report ,not later than #a year after the date on which the report under subsection 7a77#b7 is submitted1 the ,commandant shall submit to ,congress a report on the plan required by paragraph 7#a74 #bjc4 ,acquisition life-cycle cost estimates ,section #aacb7;e7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking paragraphs 7#b7 and 7#c7 and inserting the following3 7#b7 ,types of estimates ,for each ,level #a or ,level #b acquisition project or program1 in addition to life-cycle cost estimates developed under paragraph 7#a71 the ,commandant shall require-- 7,a7 such life-cycle cost estimates to be updated before-- 7i7 each milestone decision is concluded2 and 7ii7 the project or program enters a new acquisition phase2 and 7,b7 an independent cost estimate or independent cost assessment1 as appropriate1 to be developed to validate such life-cycle cost estimates4 4 #bjd4 ,report and briefing on resourcing strategy for ,western ,pacific ,region 7a7 ,report 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant1 in consultation with the ,coast ,guard ,commander of the ,pacific ,area1 the ,commander of ,united ,states ,indo-,pacific ,command1 and the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere1 shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report outlining the ,coast ,guard's resourcing needs to achieve optimum operations in the ,western ,pacific region4 7#b7 ,elements ,the report required under paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an assessment of the risks and associated needs-- 7i7 to ,united ,states strategic maritime interests1 in particular such interests in areas west of the ,international ,date ,line1 including risks to bilateral maritime partners of the ,united ,states1 posed by not fully staffing and equipping ,coast ,guard operations in the ,western ,pacific region2 7ii7 to the ,coast ,guard mission and force posed by not fully staffing and equipping ,coast ,guard operations in the ,western ,pacific region2 and 7iii7 to support the call of the ,president1 as set forth in the ,indo-,pacific ,strategy1 to expand ,coast ,guard presence and cooperation in ,southeast ,asia1 ,south ,asia1 and the ,pacific ,islands1 with a focus on advising1 training1 deployment1 and capacity-building4 7,b7 ,a description of the additional resources1 including shoreside resources1 required to fully implement the needs described in subparagraph 7,a71 including the ,united ,states commitment to bilateral fisheries law enforcement in the ,pacific ,ocean4 7,c7 ,a description of the operational and personnel assets required and a dispersal plan for available and projected future ,coast ,guard cutters and aviation forces to conduct optimum operations in the ,western ,pacific region4 7,d7 ,an analysis with respect to whether a national security cutter or fast response cutter located at a ,united ,states military installation in a foreign country in the ,western ,pacific ,region would enhance ,united ,states national security1 partner country capacity building1 and prevention and effective response to illegal1 unreported1 and unregulated fishing4 7,e7 ,an assessment of the benefits and associated costs involved in-- 7i7 increasing staffing of ,coast ,guard personnel within the command elements of ,united ,states ,indo-,pacific ,command or subordinate commands2 and 7ii7 designating a ,coast ,guard patrol force under the direct authority of the ,commander of the ,united ,states ,indo-,pacific ,command with associated forward-based assets and personnel4 7,f7 ,an identification of any additional authority necessary1 including proposals for legislative change1 to meet the needs identified in accordance with subparagraphs 7,a7 through 7,e7 and any other mission requirement in the ,western ,pacific region4 7#c7 ,form ,the report required under paragraph 7#a7 shall be submitted in unclassified form but may include a classified annex4 7b7 ,briefing ,not later than #fj days after the date on which the ,commandant submits the report under subsection 7a71 the ,commandant1 or a designated individual1 shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on the findings and conclusions of such report4 #bje4 ,study and report on national security and drug trafficking threats in the ,florida ,straits and ,caribbean region1 including ,cuba 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall conduct a study on national security1 drug trafficking1 and other relevant threats as the ,commandant considers appropriate1 in the ,florida ,straits and ,caribbean region1 including ,cuba4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,an assessment of-- 7,a7 new technology and evasive maneuvers used by transnational criminal organizations to evade detection and interdiction by ,coast ,guard law enforcement units and interagency partners2 and 7,b7 capability gaps of the ,coast ,guard with respect to-- 7i7 the detection and interdiction of illicit drugs in the ,florida ,straits and ,caribbean region1 including ,cuba2 and 7ii7 the detection of national security threats in such region4 7#b7 ,an identification of-- 7,a7 the critical technological advancements required for the ,coast ,guard to meet current and anticipated threats in such region2 7,b7 the capabilities required to enhance information sharing and coordination between the ,coast ,guard and interagency partners1 foreign governments1 and related civilian entities2 and 7,c7 any significant new or developing threat to the ,united ,states posed by illicit actors in such region4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 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 under subsection 7a74 #bjf4 ,coast ,guard ,yard 7a7 ,in general ,with respect to the ,coast ,guard ,yard1 the purposes of the authorization under section #ajc7;b7 are-- 7#a7 to improve resilience and capacity2 7#b7 to maintain and expand ,coast ,guard organic manufacturing capacity2 7#c7 to expand training and recruitment2 7#d7 to enhance safety2 7#e7 to improve environmental compliance2 and 7#f7 to ensure that the ,coast ,guard ,yard is prepared to meet the growing needs of the modern ,coast ,guard fleet4 7b7 ,inclusions ,the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall ensure that the ,coast ,guard ,yard receives improvements that include the following3 7#a7 ,facilities upgrades needed to improve resilience of the shipyard1 its facilities1 and associated infrastructure4 7#b7 ,acquisition of a large-capacity drydock4 7#c7 ,improvements to piers and wharves1 drydocks1 and capital equipment utilities4 7#d7 ,environmental remediation4 7#e7 ,construction of a new warehouse and paint facility4 7#f7 ,acquisition of a new travel lift4 7#g7 ,dredging necessary to facilitate access to the ,coast ,guard ,yard4 7c7 ,workforce development plan ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives1 a workforce development plan that-- 7#a7 outlines the workforce needs of the ,coast ,guard ,yard with respect to civilian employees and active duty members of the ,coast ,guard1 including engineers1 individuals engaged in trades1 cyber specialists1 and other personnel necessary to meet the evolving mission set of the ,coast ,guard ,yard2 and 7#b7 includes recommendations for ,congress with respect to the authorities1 training1 funding1 and civilian and active-duty recruitment1 including the recruitment of women and underrepresented minorities1 necessary to meet workforce needs of the ,coast ,guard ,yard for the #aj-year period beginning on the date of submission of the plan4 #bjg4 ,authority to enter into transactions other than contracts and grants to procure cost-effective technology for mission needs 7a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,,iii of chapter #aa of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #aaeh4 ,authority to enter into transactions other than contracts and grants to procure cost-effective1 advanced technology for mission-critical needs 7a7 ,in general ,subject to subsections 7b7 and 7c71 the ,commandant may enter into transactions 7other than contracts1 cooperative agreements1 and grants7 to develop prototypes for1 and to operate and procure1 cost-effective technology for the purpose of meeting the mission needs of the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,procurement and acquisition ,procurement or acquisition of technologies under subsection 7a7 shall be-- 7#a7 carried out in accordance with this title and ,coast ,guard policies and guidance2 and 7#b7 consistent with the operational requirements of the ,coast ,guard4 7c7 ,limitations 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant may not enter into a transaction under subsection 7a7 with respect to a technology that-- 7,a7 does not comply with the cybersecurity standards of the ,coast ,guard2 or 7,b7 is sourced from an entity domiciled in the ,people's ,republic of ,china1 unless the ,commandant determines that the prototype1 operation1 or procurement of such a technology is for the purpose of-- 7i7 counter-,,uas operations1 surrogate testing1 or training2 or 7ii7 intelligence1 electronic warfare1 and information warfare operations1 testing1 analysis1 and training4 7#b7 ,waiver ,the ,commandant may waive the application under paragraph 7#a7 on a case-by-case basis by certifying in writing to the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security and the appropriate committees of ,congress that the prototype1 operation1 or procurement of the applicable technology is in the national interests of the ,united ,states4 7d7 ,education and training ,the ,commandant shall ensure that management1 technical1 and contracting personnel of the ,coast ,guard involved in the award or administration of transactions under this section1 or other innovative forms of contracting1 are provided opportunities for adequate education and training with respect to the authority under this section4 7e7 ,report 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #e years after the date of the enactment of this section1 the ,commandant shall submit to the appropriate committees of ,congress a report that-- 7,a7 describes the use of the authority pursuant to this section2 and 7,b7 assesses the mission and operational benefits of such authority4 7#b7 ,appropriate committees of congress defined ,in this subsection1 the term appropriate committees of ,congress means-- 7,a7 the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate2 and 7,b7 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives4 7f7 ,regulations ,the ,commandant shall prescribe regulations as necessary to carry out this section4 7g7 ,definitions of unmanned aircraft1 unmanned aircraft system1 and counter-,,uas ,in this section1 the terms unmanned aircraft1 unmanned aircraft system1 and counter-,,uas have the meanings given such terms in section #ddhja of title #di1 ,united ,states ,code4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,,ii of chapter #aa of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #aaeh4 ,authority to enter into transactions other than contracts and grants to procure cost-effective technology for mission needs4 4 #bjh4 ,improvements to infrastructure and operations planning 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall incorporate the most recent oceanic and atmospheric data relating to the increasing rates of extreme weather1 including flooding1 into planning scenarios for ,coast ,guard infrastructure and mission deployments with respect to all ,coast ,guard ,missions4 7b7 ,coordination with ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,in carrying out subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 coordinate with the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere to ensure the incorporation of the most recent environmental and climatic data2 and 7#b7 request technical assistance and advice from the ,under ,secretary in planning scenarios1 as appropriate4 7c7 ,briefing ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on the manner in which the best-available science from the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration has been incorporated into at least #a key mission area of the ,coast ,guard1 and the lessons learned from so doing4 ,b ,great ,lakes #baa4 ,great ,lakes winter commerce 7a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,,iv of chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #efd4 ,great ,lakes icebreaking operations 7a7 ,,gao report 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this section1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the ,coast ,guard ,great ,lakes icebreaking program4 7#b7 ,elements ,the report required under paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an evaluation of the economic impact of vessel delays or cancellations associated with ice coverage on the ,great ,lakes4 7,b7 ,an evaluation of mission needs of the ,coast ,guard ,great ,lakes icebreaking program4 7,c7 ,an evaluation of the impact that the proposed standards described in subsection 7b7 would have on-- 7i7 ,coast ,guard operations in the ,great ,lakes2 7ii7 ,northeast icebreaking missions2 and 7iii7 inland waterway operations4 7,d7 ,a fleet mix analysis for meeting such proposed standards4 7,e7 ,a description of the resources necessary to support the fleet mix resulting from such fleet mix analysis1 including for crew and operating costs4 7,f7 ,recommendations to the ,commandant for improvements to the ,great ,lakes icebreaking program1 including with respect to facilitating commerce and meeting all ,coast ,guard mission needs4 7b7 ,proposed standards for icebreaking operations ,the proposed standards described in this subsection are the following3 7#a7 ,except as provided in paragraph 7#b71 the ,commandant shall keep ice-covered waterways in the ,great ,lakes open to navigation during not less than #ij percent of the hours that commercial vessels and ferries attempt to transit such ice-covered waterways4 7#b7 ,in a year in which the ,great ,lakes are not open to navigation because of ice of a thickness that occurs on average only once every #aj years1 the ,commandant shall keep ice-covered waterways in the ,great ,lakes open to navigation during not less than #gj percent of the hours that commercial vessels and ferries attempt to transit such ice-covered waterways4 7c7 ,report by commandant ,not later than #ij days after the date on which the ,comptroller ,general submits the report under subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report that includes the following3 7#a7 ,a plan for ,coast ,guard implementation of any recommendation made by the ,comptroller ,general under subparagraph 7,f7 of subsection 7a77#b7 the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7#b7 ,with respect to any recommendation made under such subparagraph that the ,commandant declines to implement1 a justification for such decision4 7#c7 ,a review of1 and a proposed implementation plan for1 the results of the fleet mix analysis under subparagraph 7,d7 of that subsection4 7#d7 ,any proposed modifications to the standards for icebreaking operations in the ,great ,lakes4 7d7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,commercial vessel ,the term commercial vessel means any privately owned cargo vessel operating in the ,great ,lakes during the winter season of at least #ejj tons1 as measured under section #adejb of title #df1 or an alternate tonnage measured under section #adcjb of such title1 as prescribed by the ,secretary under section #adajd of such title4 7#b7 ,great ,lakes ,the term ,great ,lakes means the ,united ,states waters of ,lake ,superior1 ,lake ,michigan1 ,lake ,huron1 ,lake ,erie1 and ,lake ,ontario1 their connecting waterways1 and their adjacent harbors4 7#c7 ,ice-covered waterway ,the term ice-covered waterway means any portion of the ,great ,lakes in which commercial vessels or ferries operate that is #gj percent or greater covered by ice1 but does not include any waters adjacent to piers or docks for which commercial icebreaking services are available and adequate for the ice conditions4 7#d7 ,open to navigation ,the term open to navigation means navigable to the extent necessary1 in no particular order of priority-- 7,a7 to extricate vessels and individuals from danger2 7,b7 to prevent damage due to flooding2 7,c7 to meet the reasonable demands of commerce2 7,d7 to minimize delays to passenger ferries2 and 7,e7 to conduct other ,coast ,guard missions as required4 7#e7 ,reasonable demands of commerce ,the term reasonable demands of commerce means the safe movement of commercial vessels and ferries transiting ice-covered waterways in the ,great ,lakes1 regardless of type of cargo1 at a speed consistent with the design capability of ,coast ,guard icebreakers operating in the ,great ,lakes and appropriate to the ice capability of the commercial vessel4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #efd4 ,great ,lakes icebreaking operations4 4 #bab4 ,database on icebreaking operations in the ,great ,lakes 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall establish and maintain a database for collecting1 archiving1 and disseminating data on icebreaking operations and commercial vessel and ferry transit in the ,great ,lakes during ice season4 7b7 ,elements ,the database required under subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,attempts by commercial vessels and ferries to transit ice-covered waterways in the ,great ,lakes that are unsuccessful because of inadequate icebreaking4 7#b7 ,the period of time that each commercial vessel or ferry was unsuccessful at so transiting due to inadequate icebreaking4 7#c7 ,the amount of time elapsed before each such commercial vessel or ferry was successfully broken out of the ice and whether it was accomplished by the ,coast ,guard or by commercial icebreaking assets4 7#d7 ,relevant communications of each such commercial vessel or ferry with the ,coast ,guard and with commercial icebreaking services during such period4 7#e7 ,a description of any mitigating circumstance1 such as ,coast ,guard icebreaker diversions to higher priority missions1 that may have contributed to the amount of time described in paragraph 7#c74 7c7 ,voluntary reporting ,any reporting by operators of commercial vessels or ferries under this section shall be voluntary4 7d7 ,public availability ,the ,commandant shall make the database available to the public on a publicly accessible internet website of the ,coast ,guard4 7e7 ,consultation with industry ,with respect to the ,great ,lakes icebreaking operations of the ,coast ,guard and the development of the database required under subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall consult operators of commercial vessels and ferries4 7f7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,commercial vessel ,the term commercial vessel means any privately owned cargo vessel operating in the ,great ,lakes during the winter season of at least #ejj tons1 as measured under section #adejb of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 or an alternate tonnage measured under section #adcjb of such title1 as prescribed by the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating under section #adajd of such title4 7#b7 ,great lakes ,the term ,great ,lakes means the ,united ,states waters of ,lake ,superior1 ,lake ,michigan1 ,lake ,huron1 ,lake ,erie1 and ,lake ,ontario1 their connecting waterways1 and their adjacent harbors4 7#c7 ,ice-covered waterway ,the term ice-covered waterway means any portion of the ,great ,lakes in which commercial vessels or ferries operate that is #gj percent or greater covered by ice1 but does not include any waters adjacent to piers or docks for which commercial icebreaking services are available and adequate for the ice conditions4 7#d7 ,open to navigation ,the term open to navigation means navigable to the extent necessary1 in no particular order of priority-- 7,a7 to extricate vessels and individuals from danger2 7,b7 to prevent damage due to flooding2 7,c7 to meet the reasonable demands of commerce2 7,d7 to minimize delays to passenger ferries2 and 7,e7 to conduct other ,coast ,guard missions as required4 7#e7 ,reasonable demands of commerce ,the term reasonable demands of commerce means the safe movement of commercial vessels and ferries transiting ice-covered waterways in the ,great ,lakes1 regardless of type of cargo1 at a speed consistent with the design capability of ,coast ,guard icebreakers operating in the ,great ,lakes and appropriate to the ice capability of the commercial vessel4 7g7 ,public report ,not later than ,july #a after the first winter in which the ,commandant is subject to the requirements of section #efd of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 the ,commandant shall publish on a publicly accessible internet website of the ,coast ,guard a report on the cost to the ,coast ,guard of meeting the requirements of that section4 #bac4 ,great ,lakes snowmobile acquisition plan 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall develop a plan to expand snowmobile procurement for ,coast ,guard units at which snowmobiles may improve ice rescue response times while maintaining the safety of ,coast ,guard personnel engaged in search and rescue4 ,the plan must include consideration of input from ,officers in ,charge1 ,commanding ,officers1 and ,commanders of impacted units4 7b7 ,elements ,the plan required by subsection 7a7 shall include-- 7#a7 a consideration of input from officers in charge1 commanding officers1 and commanders of affected ,coast ,guard units2 7#b7 a detailed description of the estimated costs of procuring1 maintaining1 and training members of the ,coast ,guard at affected units to use snowmobiles2 and 7#c7 an assessment of-- 7,a7 the degree to which snowmobiles may improve ice rescue response times while maintaining the safety of ,coast ,guard personnel engaged in search and rescue2 7,b7 the operational capabilities of a snowmobile1 as compared to an airboat1 and a force laydown assessment with respect to the assets needed for effective operations at ,coast ,guard units conducting ice rescue activities2 and 7,c7 the potential risks to members of the ,coast ,guard and members of the public posed by the use of snowmobiles by members of the ,coast ,guard for ice rescue activities4 7c7 ,public availability ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall finalize the plan required by subsection 7a7 and make the plan available on a publicly accessible internet website of the ,coast ,guard4 #bad4 ,great ,lakes barge inspection exemption ,section #ccjb7m7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in the matter preceding paragraph 7#a71 by inserting or a ,great ,lakes barge after seagoing barge2 and 7#b7 by striking section #ccja7f7 of this title and inserting paragraph 7#f7 or 7#ac7 of section #ccja of this title4 #bae4 ,study on sufficiency of ,coast ,guard aviation assets to meet mission demands 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on-- 7#a7 the force laydown of ,coast ,guard aviation assets2 and 7#b7 any geographic gaps in coverage by ,coast ,guard assets in areas in which the ,coast ,guard has search and rescue responsibilities4 7b7 ,elements ,the report required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,the distance1 time1 and weather challenges that ,,mh-#fe and ,,mh-#fj units may face in reaching the outermost limits of the area of operation of ,coast ,guard ,district #i for which such units are responsible4 7#b7 ,an assessment of the advantages that ,coast ,guard fixed-wing assets1 or an alternate rotary wing asset1 would offer to the outermost limits of any area of operation for purposes of search and rescue1 law enforcement1 ice operations1 and logistical missions4 7#c7 ,a comparison of advantages and disadvantages of the manner in which each of the ,coast ,guard fixed-wing aircraft would operate in the outermost limits of any area of operation4 7#d7 ,a specific assessment of the coverage gaps1 including gaps in fixed-wing coverage1 and potential solutions to address such gaps in the area of operation of ,coast ,guard ,district #i1 including the eastern region of such area of operation4 ,c ,arctic #bba4 ,establishment of the ,arctic ,security ,cutter ,program ,office 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ij days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall establish a program office for the acquisition of the ,arctic ,security ,cutter to expedite the evaluation of requirements and initiate design of a vessel class critical to the national security of the ,united ,states4 7b7 ,design phase ,not later than #bgj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall initiate the design phase of the ,arctic ,security ,cutter vessel class4 7c7 ,quarterly briefings ,not less frequently than quarterly until the date on which the contract for acquisition of the ,arctic ,security ,cutter is awarded1 the ,commandant shall provide a briefing to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives on the status of requirements evaluations1 design of the vessel1 and schedule of the program4 #bbb4 ,arctic activities 7a7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,appropriate committees of ,congress ,the term appropriate committees of ,congress means-- 7,a7 the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate2 and 7,b7 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives4 7#b7 ,arctic ,the term ,arctic has the meaning given such term in section #aab of the ,arctic ,research and ,policy ,act of #aihd 7#ae ,u4,s4,c4 #daaa74 7b7 ,arctic operational implementation report ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall submit a report to the appropriate committees of ,congress that describes the ability and timeline to conduct a transit of the ,northern ,sea ,route and periodic transits of the ,northwest ,passage4 #bbc4 ,study on ,arctic operations and infrastructure 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on the ,arctic operations and infrastructure of the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required under subsection 7a7 shall assess the following3 7#a7 ,the extent of the collaboration between the ,coast ,guard and the ,department of ,defense to assess1 manage1 and mitigate security risks in the ,arctic region4 7#b7 ,actions taken by the ,coast ,guard to manage risks to ,coast ,guard operations1 infrastructure1 and workforce planning in the ,arctic4 7#c7 ,the plans the ,coast ,guard has in place for managing and mitigating the risks to commercial maritime operations and the environment in the ,arctic region4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after commencing the study required under subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the findings of the study4 ,d ,maritime cyber and artificial intelligence #bca4 ,enhancing maritime cybersecurity 7a7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,cyber incident ,the term cyber incident-- 7,a7 means an event occurring on or conducted through a computer network that actually or imminently jeopardizes the integrity1 confidentiality1 or availability of computers1 information or communications systems or networks1 physical or virtual infrastructure controlled by computers or information systems1 or information resident thereon2 and 7,b7 includes a vulnerability in an information system1 system security procedures1 internal controls1 or implementation that could be exploited by a threat source4 7#b7 ,maritime operators ,the term maritime operators means the owners or operators of vessels engaged in commercial service1 the owners or operators of port facilities1 and port authorities4 7#c7 ,significant cyber incident ,the term significant cyber incident means a cyber incident that the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security determines is 7or group of related cyber incidents that together are7 likely to result in demonstrable harm to the national security interests1 foreign relations1 or economy of the ,united ,states or to public confidence1 civil liberties1 or public health and safety of the people of the ,united ,states4 7#d7 ,port facilities ,the term port facilities has the meaning given the term facility in section #gjaja of title #df4 7b7 ,public availability of cybersecurity tools and resources 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant1 in coordination with the ,administrator of the ,maritime ,administration1 the ,director of the ,cybersecurity and ,infrastructure ,security ,agency1 and the ,director of the ,national ,institute of ,standards and ,technology1 shall identify and make available to the public a list of tools and resources1 including the resources of the ,coast ,guard and the ,cybersecurity and ,infrastructure ,security ,agency1 designed to assist maritime operators in identifying1 detecting1 protecting against1 responding to1 and recovering from significant cyber incidents4 7#b7 ,identification ,in carrying out paragraph 7#a71 the ,commandant1 the ,administrator of the ,maritime ,administration1 the ,director of the ,cybersecurity and ,infrastructure ,security ,agency1 and the ,director of the ,national ,institute of ,standards and ,technology shall identify tools and resources that-- 7,a7 comply with the cybersecurity framework for improving critical infrastructure established by the ,national ,institute of ,standards and ,technology2 or 7,b7 use the guidelines on maritime cyber risk management issued by the ,international ,maritime ,organization on ,july #e1 #bjag 7or successor guidelines74 7#c7 ,consultation 7,a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant1 the ,administrator of the ,maritime ,administration1 the ,director of the ,cybersecurity and ,infrastructure ,security ,agency1 and the ,director of the ,national ,institute of ,standards and ,technology may consult with maritime operators1 other ,federal agencies1 industry stakeholders1 and cybersecurity experts to identify tools and resources for purposes of this section4 7,b7 ,inapplicability of ,,faca ,the ,federal ,advisory ,committee ,act 7#e ,u4,s4,c4 ,app47 shall not apply to the consultation described in subparagraph 7,a7 or to any other action in support of the implementation of this section4 #bcb4 ,establishment of unmanned system program and autonomous control and computer vision technology project 7a7 ,in general ,section #cai of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 #cai4 ,unmanned system program and autonomous control and computer vision technology project 7a7 ,unmanned system program ,the ,secretary shall establish1 under the control of the ,commandant1 an unmanned system program for the use by the ,coast ,guard of land-based1 cutter-based1 and aircraft-based unmanned systems for the purpose of increasing effectiveness and efficiency of mission execution4 7b7 ,autonomous control and computer vision technology project 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall conduct a project to retrofit #b or more existing ,coast ,guard small boats deployed at operational units with-- 7,a7 commercially available autonomous control and computer vision technology2 and 7,b7 such sensors and methods of communication as are necessary to control1 and technology to assist in conducting1 search and rescue1 surveillance1 and interdiction missions4 7#b7 ,data collection ,as part of the project required by paragraph 7#a71 the ,commandant shall collect and evaluate field-collected operational data from the retrofit described in that paragraph so as to inform future requirements4 7#c7 ,briefing ,not later than #ahj days after the date on which the project required under paragraph 7#a7 is completed1 the ,commandant shall provide a briefing to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives on the project that includes an evaluation of the data collected from the project4 7c7 ,unmanned system defined ,in this section1 the term unmanned system means-- 7#a7 an unmanned aircraft system 7as defined in section #cca of the ,federal ,aviation ,administration ,modernization and ,reform ,act of #bjab 7,public ,law #aab-ie2 #di ,u4,s4,c4 #ddhjb note772 7#b7 an unmanned marine surface system2 and 7#c7 an unmanned marine subsurface system4 7d7 ,cost assessment ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall provide to ,congress an estimate of the costs associated with implementing the amendments made by this section4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #c of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking the item relating to section #cai and inserting the following3 #cai4 ,unmanned system program and autonomous control and computer vision technology project4 4 #bcc4 ,artificial intelligence strategy 7a7 ,establishment of activities 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall establish a set of activities to coordinate the efforts of the ,coast ,guard to develop and mature artificial intelligence technologies and transition such technologies into operational use where appropriate4 7#b7 ,emphasis ,the set of activities established under paragraph 7#a7 shall-- 7,a7 apply artificial intelligence and machine-learning solutions to operational and mission-support problems2 and 7,b7 coordinate activities involving artificial intelligence and artificial intelligence-enabled capabilities within the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,designated official 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall designate a senior official of the ,coast ,guard 7referred to in this section as the designated official7 with the principal responsibility for the coordination of activities relating to the development and demonstration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for the ,coast ,guard4 7#b7 ,duties 7,a7 ,strategic plan 7i7 ,in general ,the designated official shall develop a detailed strategic plan to develop1 mature1 adopt1 and transition artificial intelligence technologies into operational use where appropriate4 7ii7 ,elements ,the plan required by clause 7i7 shall include the following3 7,i7 ,a strategic roadmap for the identification and coordination of the development and fielding of artificial intelligence technologies and key enabling capabilities4 7,,ii7 ,the continuous evaluation and adaptation of relevant artificial intelligence capabilities developed by the ,coast ,guard and by other organizations for military missions and business operations4 7iii7 ,coordination ,in developing the plan required by clause 7i71 the designated official shall coordinate and engage with the ,secretary of ,defense and the ,joint ,artificial ,intelligence ,center4 7iv7 ,submission to ,commandant ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the designated official shall submit to the ,commandant the plan developed under clause 7i74 7,b7 ,governance and oversight of artificial intelligence and machine learning policy ,the designated official shall regularly convene appropriate officials of the ,coast ,guard-- 7i7 to integrate the functional activities of the ,coast ,guard with respect to artificial intelligence and machine learning2 7ii7 to ensure that there are efficient and effective artificial intelligence and machine-learning capabilities throughout the ,coast ,guard2 and 7iii7 to develop and continuously improve research1 innovation1 policy1 joint processes1 and procedures to facilitate the development1 acquisition1 integration1 advancement1 oversight1 and sustainment of artificial intelligence and machine learning throughout the ,coast ,guard4 7c7 ,acceleration of development and fielding of artificial intelligence ,to the extent practicable1 the ,commandant1 in conjunction with the ,secretary of ,defense and the ,joint ,artificial ,intelligence ,center1 shall-- 7#a7 use the flexibility of regulations1 personnel1 acquisition1 partnerships with industry and academia1 or other relevant policies of the ,coast ,guard to accelerate the development and fielding of artificial intelligence capabilities2 7#b7 ensure engagement with defense and private industries1 research universities1 and unaffiliated1 nonprofit research institutions2 7#c7 provide technical advice and support to entities in the ,coast ,guard to optimize the use of artificial intelligence and machine-learning technologies to meet ,coast ,guard missions2 7#d7 support the development of requirements for artificial intelligence capabilities that address the highest priority capability gaps of the ,coast ,guard and technical feasibility2 7#e7 develop and support capabilities for technical analysis and assessment of threat capabilities based on artificial intelligence2 7#f7 identify the workforce and capabilities needed to support the artificial intelligence capabilities and requirements of the ,coast ,guard2 7#g7 develop classification guidance for all artificial intelligence-related activities of the ,coast ,guard2 7#h7 work with appropriate officials to develop appropriate ethical1 legal1 and other policies for the ,coast ,guard governing the development and use of artificial intelligence-enabled systems and technologies in operational situations2 and 7#i7 ensure-- 7,a7 that artificial intelligence programs of the ,coast ,guard are consistent with this section2 and 7,b7 appropriate coordination of artificial intelligence activities of the ,coast ,guard with interagency1 industry1 and international efforts relating to artificial intelligence1 including relevant participation in standards-setting bodies4 7d7 ,strategic plan 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall develop a strategic plan to develop1 mature1 adopt1 and transition artificial intelligence technologies into operational use where appropriate1 that is informed by the plan developed by the designated official under subsection 7b77#b77;,a74 7#b7 ,elements ,the plan required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,each element described in clause 7ii7 of subsection 7b77#b77;,a74 7,b7 ,a consideration of the identification1 adoption1 and procurement of artificial intelligence technologies for use in operational and mission support activities4 7#c7 ,coordination ,in developing the plan required by paragraph 7#a71 the ,commandant shall coordinate and engage with the ,secretary of ,defense1 the ,chief ,digital and ,artificial ,intelligence ,office1 defense and private industries1 research universities1 and unaffiliated1 nonprofit research institutions4 7#d7 ,submission to ,congress ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives the plan developed under paragraph 7#a74 #bcd4 ,review of artificial intelligence applications and establishment of performance metrics 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 review the potential applications of artificial intelligence and digital technology to the platforms1 processes1 and operations of the ,coast ,guard2 7#b7 identify the resources necessary to improve the use of artificial intelligence and digital technology in such platforms1 processes1 and operations2 and 7#c7 establish performance objectives and accompanying metrics for the incorporation of artificial intelligence and digital readiness into such platforms1 processes1 and operations4 7b7 ,performance objectives and accompanying metrics 7#a7 ,skill gaps ,in carrying out subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall-- 7,a7 conduct a comprehensive review and assessment of-- 7i7 skill gaps in the fields of software development1 software engineering1 data science1 and artificial intelligence2 7ii7 the qualifications of civilian personnel needed for both management and specialist tracks in such fields2 and 7iii7 the qualifications of military personnel 7officer and enlisted7 needed for both management and specialist tracks in such fields2 and 7,b7 establish recruiting1 training1 and talent management performance objectives and accompanying metrics for achieving and maintaining staffing levels needed to fill identified gaps and meet the needs of the ,coast ,guard for skilled personnel4 7#b7 ,,ai modernization activities ,in carrying out subsection 7a71 the ,commandant1 with support from the ,director of the ,joint ,artificial ,intelligence ,center1 shall-- 7,a7 assess investment by the ,coast ,guard in artificial intelligence innovation1 science and technology1 and research and development2 7,b7 assess investment by the ,coast ,guard in test and evaluation of artificial intelligence capabilities2 7,c7 assess the integration of1 and the resources necessary to better use artificial intelligence in wargames1 exercises1 and experimentation2 7,d7 assess the application of1 and the resources necessary to better use1 artificial intelligence in logistics and sustainment systems2 7,e7 assess the integration of1 and the resources necessary to better use1 artificial intelligence for administrative functions2 7,f7 establish performance objectives and accompanying metrics for artificial intelligence modernization activities of the ,coast ,guard2 and 7,g7 identify the resources necessary to effectively use artificial intelligence to carry out the missions of the ,coast ,guard4 7c7 ,report to ,congress ,not later than #ahj days after the completion of the review required by subsection 7a77#a71 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,house of ,representatives a report on-- 7#a7 the findings of the ,commandant with respect to such review and any action taken or proposed to be taken by the ,commandant1 and the resources necessary to address such findings2 7#b7 the performance objectives and accompanying metrics established under subsections 7a77#c7 and 7b77#a77;,b72 and 7#c7 any recommendation with respect to proposals for legislative change necessary to successfully implement artificial intelligence applications within the ,coast ,guard4 #bce4 ,cyber data management 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant1 in coordination with the ,commander of ,united ,states ,cyber ,command1 and the ,director of the ,cybersecurity and ,infrastructure ,security ,agency1 shall-- 7#a7 develop policies1 processes1 and operating procedures governing-- 7,a7 access to and the ingestion1 structure1 storage1 and analysis of information and data relevant to the ,coast ,guard ,cyber ,mission1 including-- 7i7 intelligence data relevant to ,coast ,guard missions2 7ii7 internet traffic1 topology1 and activity data relevant to such missions2 and 7iii7 cyber threat information relevant to such missions2 and 7,b7 data management and analytic platforms relating to such missions2 and 7#b7 evaluate data management platforms referred to in paragraph 7#a77;,b7 to ensure that such platforms operate consistently with the ,coast ,guard ,data ,strategy4 7b7 ,report ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report that includes-- 7#a7 an assessment of the progress on the activities required by subsection 7a72 and 7#b7 any recommendation with respect to funding or additional authorities necessary1 including proposals for legislative change1 to improve ,coast ,guard cyber data management4 #bcf4 ,data management ,the ,commandant shall develop data workflows and processes for the leveraging of mission-relevant data by the ,coast ,guard to enhance operational effectiveness and efficiency4 #bcg4 ,study on cyber threats to the ,united ,states marine transportation system 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on cyber threats to the ,united ,states marine transportation system4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by paragraph 7#a7 shall assess the following3 7#a7 ,the extent to which the ,coast ,guard1 in collaboration with other ,federal agencies1 sets standards for the cybersecurity of facilities and vessels regulated under part #ajd1 #aje1 or #ajf of title #cc of the ,code of ,federal ,regulations1 as in effect on the date of the enactment of this ,act4 7#b7 ,the manner in which the ,coast ,guard ensures cybersecurity standards are followed by port1 vessel1 and facility owners and operators4 7#c7 ,the extent to which maritime sector-specific planning addresses cybersecurity1 particularly for vessels and offshore platforms4 7#d7 ,the manner in which the ,coast ,guard1 other ,federal agencies1 and vessel and offshore platform operators exchange information regarding cyber risks4 7#e7 ,the extent to which the ,coast ,guard is developing and deploying cybersecurity specialists in port and vessel systems and collaborating with the private sector to increase the expertise of the ,coast ,guard with respect to cybersecurity4 7#f7 ,the cyber resource and workforce needs of the ,coast ,guard necessary to meet future mission demands4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after commencing the study required by subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit a report on the findings of the study to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives4 7d7 ,definition of facility ,in this section the term facility has the meaning given the term in section #gjaja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 ,e ,aviation #bda4 ,space-available travel on ,coast ,guard aircraft3 program authorization and eligible recipients 7a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,i of chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #eji4 ,space-available travel on ,coast ,guard aircraft 7a7 7#a7 ,the ,coast ,guard may establish a program to provide transportation on ,coast ,guard aircraft on a space-available basis to the categories of eligible individuals described in subsection 7c7 7in this section referred to as the program74 7#b7 ,not later than #a year after the date on which the program is established1 the ,commandant shall develop a policy for its operation4 7b7 7#a7 ,the ,commandant shall operate the program in a budget-neutral manner4 7#b7 7,a7 ,except as provided in subparagraph 7,b71 no additional funds may be used1 or flight hours performed1 for the purpose of providing transportation under the program4 7,b7 ,the ,commandant may make de minimis expenditures of resources required for the administrative aspects of the program4 7#c7 ,eligible individuals described in subsection 7c7 shall not be required to reimburse the ,coast ,guard for travel provided under this section4 7c7 ,subject to subsection 7d71 the categories of eligible individuals described in this subsection are the following3 7#a7 ,members of the armed forces on active duty4 7#b7 ,members of the ,selected ,reserve who hold a valid ,uniformed ,services ,identification and ,privilege ,card4 7#c7 ,retired members of a regular or reserve component of the armed forces1 including retired members of reserve components who1 but for being under the eligibility age applicable under section #abgca of title #aj1 would be eligible for retired pay under chapter #abbc of title #aj4 7#d7 ,subject to subsection 7f71 veterans with a permanent service-connected disability rated as total4 7#e7 ,such categories of dependents of individuals described in paragraphs 7#a7 through 7#c7 as the ,commandant shall specify in the policy under subsection 7a77#b71 under such conditions and circumstances as the ,commandant shall specify in such policy4 7#f7 ,such other categories of individuals as the ,commandant1 in the discretion of the ,commandant1 considers appropriate4 7d7 ,in operating the program1 the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 in the sole discretion of the ,commandant1 establish an order of priority for transportation for categories of eligible individuals that is based on considerations of military necessity1 humanitarian concerns1 and enhancement of morale2 7#b7 give priority in consideration of transportation to the demands of members of the armed forces in the regular components and in the reserve components on active duty and to the need to provide such members1 and their dependents1 a means of respite from such demands2 and 7#c7 implement policies aimed at ensuring cost control 7as required by subsection 7b77 and the safety1 security1 and efficient processing of travelers1 including limiting the benefit under the program to #a or more categories of otherwise eligible individuals1 as the ,commandant considers necessary4 7e7 7#a7 ,notwithstanding subsection 7d77#a71 in establishing space-available transportation priorities under the program1 the ,commandant shall provide transportation for an individual described in paragraph 7#b71 and a single dependent of the individual if needed to accompany the individual1 at a priority level in the same category as the priority level for an unaccompanied dependent over the age of #ah years traveling on environmental and morale leave4 7#b7 ,subject to paragraph 7#c71 paragraph 7#a7 applies with respect to an individual described in subsection 7c77#c7 who-- 7,a7 resides in or is located in a ,commonwealth or possession of the ,united ,states2 and 7,b7 is referred by a military or civilian primary care provider located in that ,commonwealth or possession to a specialty care provider for services to be provided outside of that ,commonwealth or possession4 7#c7 ,if an individual described in subsection 7c77#c7 is a retired member of a reserve component who is ineligible for retired pay under chapter #abbc of title #aj by reason of being under the eligibility age applicable under section #abgca of title #aj1 paragraph 7#a7 applies to the individual only if the individual is also enrolled in the ,,tricare program for certain members of the ,retired ,reserve authorized under section #ajgf;e of title #aj4 7#d7 ,the priority for space-available transportation required by this subsection applies with respect to-- 7,a7 the travel from the ,commonwealth or possession of the ,united ,states to receive the specialty care services2 and 7,b7 the return travel4 7#e7 ,in this subsection1 the terms primary care provider and specialty care provider refer to a medical or dental professional who provides health care services under chapter #ee of title #aj4 7f7 7#a7 ,travel may not be provided under this section to a veteran eligible for travel pursuant to paragraph 7#d7 of subsection 7c7 in priority over any member eligible for travel under paragraph 7#a7 of that subsection or any dependent of such a member eligible for travel under this section4 7#b7 ,subsection 7c77#d7 may not be construed as-- 7,a7 affecting or in any way imposing on the ,coast ,guard1 any armed force1 or any commercial entity with which the ,coast ,guard or an armed force contracts1 an obligation or expectation that the ,coast ,guard or such armed force will retrofit or alter1 in any way1 military aircraft or commercial aircraft1 or related equipment or facilities1 used or leased by the ,coast ,guard or such armed force to accommodate passengers provided travel under such authority on account of disability2 or 7,b7 preempting the authority of an aircraft commander to determine who boards the aircraft and any other matters in connection with safe operation of the aircraft4 7g7 ,the authority to provide transportation under the program is in addition to any other authority under law to provide transportation on ,coast ,guard aircraft on a space-available basis4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,i of chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #eji4 ,space-available travel on ,coast ,guard aircraft4 4 #bdb4 ,report on ,coast ,guard ,air ,station ,barbers ,point hangar 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,house of ,representatives a report on facilities requirements for constructing a hangar at ,coast ,guard ,air ,station ,barbers ,point at ,oahu1 ,hawaii4 7b7 ,elements ,the report required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,a description of the #de1jjj1jjj phase one design for the hangar at ,coast ,guard ,air ,station ,barbers ,point funded by the ,consolidated ,appropriations ,act1 #bjba 7,public ,law #aaf-bfj2 #acd ,stat4 #aacb74 7#b7 ,an evaluation of the full facilities requirements for such hangar to house1 maintain1 and operate the ,,mh-#fe and ,,hc-#acj;,j1 including-- 7,a7 storage and provision of fuel2 and 7,b7 maintenance and parts storage facilities4 7#c7 ,an evaluation of facilities growth requirements for possible future basing of the ,,mh-#fj with the ,c-#acj;,j at ,coast ,guard ,air ,station ,barbers ,point4 7#d7 ,a description of and cost estimate for each project phase for the construction of such hangar4 7#e7 ,a description of the plan for sheltering in the hangar during extreme weather events aircraft of the ,coast ,guard and partner agencies1 such as the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration4 7#f7 ,a description of the risks posed to operations at ,coast ,guard ,air ,station ,barbers ,point if future project phases for the construction of such hangar are not funded4 #bdc4 ,study on the operational availability of ,coast ,guard aircraft and strategy for ,coast ,guard aviation 7a7 ,study 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on the operational availability of ,coast ,guard aircraft4 7#b7 ,elements ,the study required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an assessment of-- 7i7 the extent to which the fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft of the ,coast ,guard have met annual operational availability targets in recent years2 7ii7 the challenges the ,coast ,guard may face with respect to such aircraft meeting operational availability targets1 and the effects of such challenges on the ,coast ,guard's ability to meet mission requirements2 and 7iii7 the status of ,coast ,guard efforts to upgrade or recapitalize its fleet of such aircraft to meet growth in future mission demands globally1 such as in the ,western ,hemisphere1 the ,arctic region1 and the ,western ,pacific region4 7,b7 ,any recommendation with respect to the operational availability of ,coast ,guard aircraft4 7,c7 ,the resource and workforce requirements necessary for ,coast ,guard ,aviation to meet future mission demands4 7#c7 ,report ,on completion of the study required by paragraph 7#a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating a report on the findings of the study4 7b7 ,coast ,guard aviation strategy 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date on which the study under subsection 7a7 is completed1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall develop a comprehensive strategy for ,coast ,guard ,aviation that is informed by the relevant recommendations and findings of the study4 7#b7 ,elements ,the strategy required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,with respect to aircraft of the ,coast ,guard1 an analysis of the current and future operations and future resource needs4 7,b7 ,the projected number of aviation assets1 the locations at which such assets are to be stationed1 the cost of operation and maintenance of such assets1 and an assessment of the capabilities of such assets as compared to the missions they are expected to execute1 at the completion of major procurement and modernization plans4 7,c7 ,a procurement plan1 including an estimated timetable and the estimated appropriations necessary for all platforms1 including unmanned aircraft4 7,d7 ,a training plan for pilots and aircrew that addresses-- 7i7 the use of simulators owned and operated by the ,coast ,guard1 and simulators that are not owned or operated by the ,coast ,guard1 including any such simulators based outside the ,united ,states2 and 7ii7 the costs associated with attending training courses4 7,e7 ,current and future requirements for cutter and land-based deployment of aviation assets globally1 including in the ,arctic1 the ,eastern ,pacific1 the ,western ,pacific1 the ,caribbean1 the ,atlantic ,basin1 and any other area the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7,f7 ,a description of the feasibility of and resource requirements necessary to deploy rotary-winged assets onboard all future ,arctic cutter patrols4 7,g7 ,an evaluation of current and future facilities needs for ,coast ,guard aviation units4 7,h7 ,an evaluation of pilot and aircrew training and retention needs1 including aviation career incentive pay1 retention bonuses1 and any other workforce tools the ,commandant considers necessary4 7#c7 ,briefing ,not later than #ahj days after the date on which the strategy required by paragraph 7#a7 is completed1 the ,commandant shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on the strategy4 ,f ,workforce readiness #bea4 ,authorized strength ,section #cgjb of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 7c7 ,the ,secretary may vary the authorized end strength of the ,selected ,reserve of the ,coast ,guard ,reserve for a fiscal year by a number equal to not more than #c percent of such end strength upon a determination by the ,secretary that such a variation is in the national interest4 7d7 ,the ,commandant may increase the authorized end strength of the ,selected ,reserve of the ,coast ,guard ,reserve by a number equal to not more than #b percent of such authorized end strength upon a determination by the ,commandant that such an increase would enhance manning and readiness in essential units or in critical specialties or ratings4 4 #beb4 ,number and distribution of officers on active duty promotion list 7a7 ,maximum number of officers ,section #bajc7;a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 7a7 ,maximum total number 7#a7 ,in general ,the total number of ,coast ,guard commissioned officers on the active duty promotion list1 excluding warrant officers1 shall not exceed #g1djj4 7#b7 ,temporary increase ,notwithstanding paragraph 7#a71 the ,commandant may temporarily increase the total number of commissioned officers permitted under that paragraph by up to #d percent for not more than #fj days after the date of the commissioning of a ,coast ,guard ,academy class4 7#c7 ,notification ,if the ,commandant increases pursuant to paragraph 7#b7 the total number of commissioned officers permitted under paragraph 7#a71 the ,commandant shall notify the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives of the number of officers on the active duty promotion list on the last day of the preceding #cj-;day period-- 7,a7 not later than #cj days after such increase2 and 7,b7 every #cj days thereafter until the total number of commissioned officers no longer exceeds the total number of commissioned officers permitted under paragraph 7#a74 4 7b7 ,officers not on active duty promotion list 7#a7 ,in general ,chapter #ea of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #eaac4 ,officers not on active duty promotion list ,not later than #fj days after the date on which the ,president submits to ,congress a budget pursuant to section #aaje7;a7 of title #ca1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives the number of ,coast ,guard officers who are serving at other ,federal agencies on a reimbursable basis1 and the number of ,coast ,guard officers who are serving at other ,federal agencies on a non-reimbursable basis but are not on the active duty promotion list4 4 7#b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #ea of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #eaac4 ,officers not on active duty promotion list4 4 #bec4 ,continuation on active duty of officers with critical skills 7a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,,ii of chapter #ba of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #baff4 ,continuation on active duty of officers with critical skills 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant may authorize an officer in any grade above grade ,o-#b to remain on active duty after the date otherwise provided for the retirement of the officer in section #baed of this title if the officer possesses a critical skill or specialty or is in a career field designated pursuant to subsection 7b74 7b7 ,critical skill1 specialty1 or career field ,the ,commandant shall designate #a or more critical skills1 specialties1 or career fields for purposes of subsection 7a74 7c7 ,duration of continuation ,an officer continued on active duty pursuant to this section shall1 if not earlier retired1 be retired on the first day of the month after the month in which the officer completes #dj years of active service4 7d7 ,policy ,the ,commandant shall carry out this section by prescribing policy that specifies the criteria to be used in designating any critical skill1 specialty1 or career field for purposes of subsection 7b74 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,,ii of chapter #ba of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #baff4 ,continuation on active duty of officers with critical skills4 4 #bed4 ,career incentive pay for marine inspectors 7a7 ,authority ,to provide assignment pay or special duty pay ,the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating may provide assignment pay or special duty pay under section #ceb of title #cg1 ,united ,states ,code1 to a member of the ,coast ,guard serving in a prevention position and assigned as a marine inspector or marine investigator pursuant to section #cab of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code4 7b7 ,annual briefing 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 and annually thereafter1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on any uses of the authority under subsection 7a7 during the preceding year4 7#b7 ,elements ,each briefing required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,the number of members of the ,coast ,guard serving as marine inspectors or marine investigators pursuant to section #cab of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 who are receiving assignment pay or special duty pay under section #ceb of title #cg1 ,united ,states ,code4 7,b7 ,an assessment of the impact of the use of the authority under this section on the effectiveness and efficiency of the ,coast ,guard in administering the laws and regulations for the promotion of safety of life and property on and under the high seas and waters subject to the jurisdiction of the ,united ,states4 7,c7 ,an assessment of the effects of assignment pay and special duty pay on retention of marine inspectors and investigators4 7,d7 ,if the authority provided in subsection 7a7 is not exercised1 a detailed justification for not exercising such authority1 including an explanation of the efforts the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating is taking to ensure that the ,coast ,guard workforce contains an adequate number of qualified marine inspectors4 7c7 ,study 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating1 in coordination with the ,director of the ,national ,institute for ,occupational ,safety and ,health1 shall conduct a study on the health of marine inspectors and marine investigators who have served in such positions for a period of not less than least #aj years4 7#b7 ,elements ,the study required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an evaluation of-- 7i7 the daily vessel inspection duties of marine inspectors and marine investigators1 including the examination of internal cargo tanks and voids and new construction activities2 7ii7 major incidents to which marine inspectors and marine investigators have had to respond1 and any other significant incident1 such as a vessel casualty1 that has resulted in the exposure of marine inspectors and marine investigators to hazardous chemicals or substances2 and 7iii7 the types of hazardous chemicals or substances to which marine inspectors and marine investigators have been exposed relative to the effects such chemicals or substances have had on marine inspectors and marine investigators4 7,b7 ,a review and analysis of the current ,coast ,guard health and safety monitoring systems1 and recommendations for improving such systems1 specifically with respect to the exposure of members of the ,coast ,guard to hazardous substances while carrying out inspections and investigation duties4 7,c7 ,any other element the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating considers appropriate4 7#c7 ,report ,on completion of the study required by paragraph 7#a71 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 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 and recommendations for actions the ,commandant should take to improve the health and exposure of marine inspectors and marine investigators4 7d7 ,termination ,the authority provided by subsection 7a7 shall terminate on ,december #ca1 #bjbg1 unless the study required by subsection 7c7 is completed and submitted as required by that subsection4 #bee4 ,expansion of the ability for selection board to recommend officers of particular merit for promotion ,section #baaf7;c77#a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended1 in the second sentence1 by inserting three times after may not exceed4 #bef4 ,pay and allowances for certain members of the ,coast ,guard during funding gap 7a7 ,in general ,during a funding gap1 the ,secretary of the ,treasury shall make available to the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security1 out of any amounts in the general fund of the ,treasury not otherwise appropriated1 such amounts as the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security determines to be necessary to continue to provide1 without interruption1 during the funding gap such sums as are necessary for-- 7#a7 pay and allowances to members of the ,coast ,guard1 including reserve components thereof1 who perform active service2 7#b7 the payment of a death gratuity under sections #adge through #adgg and #adhi of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code1 with respect to members of the ,coast ,guard2 7#c7 the payment or reimbursement of authorized funeral travel and travel related to the dignified transfer of remains and unit memorial services under section #dha;f of title #cg1 ,united ,states ,code1 with respect to members of the ,coast ,guard2 and 7#d7 the temporary continuation of a basic allowance of housing for dependents of members of the ,coast ,guard dying on active duty1 as authorized by section #djc7l7 of title #cg1 ,united ,states ,code4 7b7 ,funding gap defined ,in this section1 the term funding gap means any period after the beginning of a fiscal year for which interim or full-year appropriations for the personnel accounts of the ,coast ,guard have not been enacted4 #beg4 ,modification to education loan repayment program 7a7 ,in general ,section #bggb of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 #bggb4 ,education loan repayment program3 members on active duty in specified military specialties 7a7 7#a7 ,subject to the provisions of this section1 the ,secretary may repay-- 7,a7 any loan made1 insured1 or guaranteed under part ,b of title ,,iv of the ,higher ,education ,act of #aife 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajga et seq472 7,b7 any loan made under part ,d of such title 7the ,william ,d4 ,ford ,federal ,direct ,loan ,program1 #bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajhg;a et seq472 7,c7 any loan made under part ,e of such title 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajhg;aa et seq472 or 7,d7 any loan incurred for educational purposes made by a lender that is-- 7i7 an agency or instrumentality of a ,state2 7ii7 a financial or credit institution 7including an insurance company7 that is subject to examination and supervision by an agency of the ,united ,states or any ,state2 7iii7 a pension fund approved by the ,secretary for purposes of this section2 or 7iv7 a nonprofit private entity designated by a ,state1 regulated by such ,state1 and approved by the ,secretary for purposes of this section4 7#b7 ,repayment of any such loan shall be made on the basis of each complete year of service performed by the borrower4 7#c7 ,the ,secretary may repay loans described in paragraph 7#a7 in the case of any person for service performed on active duty as a member in an officer program or military specialty specified by the ,secretary4 7b7 ,the portion or amount of a loan that may be repaid under subsection 7a7 is #cca_/c percent or #a1ejj1 whichever is greater1 for each year of service4 7c7 ,if a portion of a loan is repaid under this section for any year1 interest on the remainder of such loan shall accrue and be paid in the same manner as is otherwise required4 7d7 ,nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize refunding any repayment of a loan4 7e7 ,a person who transfers from service making the person eligible for repayment of loans under this section 7as described in subsection 7a77#c77 to service making the person eligible for repayment of loans under section #afcja of title #aj 7as described in subsection 7a77#b7 or 7g7 of that section7 during a year shall be eligible to have repaid a portion of such loan determined by giving appropriate fractional credit for each portion of the year so served1 in accordance with regulations of the ,secretary concerned4 7f7 ,the ,secretary shall prescribe a schedule for the allocation of funds made available to carry out the provisions of this section and section #afcja of title #aj during any year for which funds are not sufficient to pay the sum of the amounts eligible for repayment under subsection 7a7 and section #afcja7;a7 of title #aj4 7g7 ,except a person described in subsection 7e7 who transfers to service making the person eligible for repayment of loans under section #afcja of title #aj1 a member of the ,coast ,guard who fails to complete the period of service required to qualify for loan repayment under this section shall be subject to the repayment provisions of section #cjc;a7e7 or #cgc of title #cg4 7h7 ,the ,secretary may prescribe procedures for implementing this section1 including standards for qualified loans and authorized payees and other terms and conditions for making loan repayments4 ,such regulations may include exceptions that would allow for the payment as a lump sum of any loan repayment due to a member under a written agreement that existed at the time of a member's death or disability4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,,iii of chapter #bg of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 #bggb4 ,education loan repayment program3 members on active duty in specified military specialties4 4 #beh4 ,retirement of ,vice ,commandant ,section #cjc of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by amending subsection 7a77#b7 to read as follows3 7#b7 ,a ,vice ,commandant who is retired while serving as ,vice ,commandant1 after serving not less than #b years as ,vice ,commandant1 shall be retired with the grade of admiral1 except as provided in section #cjf7;d74 2 and 7#b7 in subsection 7c71 by striking or ,vice ,commandant and inserting or as an officer serving as ,vice ,commandant who has served less than #b years as ,vice ,commandant4 #bei4 ,report on resignation and retirement processing times and denial 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #cj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 and annually thereafter1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives1 a report that evaluates resignation and retirement processing timelines4 7b7 ,elements ,the report required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following for the preceding calendar year-- 7#a7 statistics on the number of resignations1 retirements1 and other separations that occurred2 7#b7 the processing time for each action described in paragraph 7#a72 7#c7 the percentage of requests for such actions that had a command endorsement2 7#d7 the percentage of requests for such actions that did not have a command endorsement2 and 7#e7 for each denial of a request for a command endorsement and each failure to take action on such a request1 a detailed description of the rationale for such denial or failure to take such action4 #bfj4 ,calculation of active service ,any service described in writing1 including by electronic communication1 before the date of the enactment of the ,william ,m4 7,mac7 ,thornberry ,national ,defense ,authorization ,act for ,fiscal ,year #bjba 7,public ,law #aaf-bhc2 #acd ,stat4 #cchh71 by a representative of the ,coast ,guard ,personnel ,service ,center1 as service that counts toward total active service for the purpose of retirement under section #baeb of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 shall be considered by the ,president as active service for purposes of applying such section with respect to the determination of the retirement qualification for any officer to whom a description was provided4 #bfa4 ,physical disability evaluation system procedure review 7a7 ,study 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #c years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall complete a study on the ,coast ,guard ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system and medical retirement procedures4 7#b7 ,elements ,the study required by paragraph 7#a7 shall review1 and provide recommendations to address1 the following3 7,a7 ,coast ,guard compliance with all applicable laws1 regulations1 and policies relating to the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system and the ,medical ,evaluation ,board4 7,b7 ,coast ,guard compliance with timelines set forth in-- 7i7 the instruction of the ,commandant entitled ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system issued on ,may #ai1 #bjjf 7,,comdtnst ,m#ahej4b;,d72 and 7ii7 the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system ,transparency ,initiative 7,,alcgpsc #jcj_/bj74 7,c7 ,an evaluation of ,coast ,guard processes in place to ensure the availability1 consistency1 and effectiveness of counsel appointed by the ,coast ,guard ,office of the ,judge ,advocate ,general to represent members of the ,coast ,guard undergoing an evaluation under the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system4 7,d7 ,the extent to which the ,coast ,guard has and uses processes to ensure that such counsel may perform their functions in a manner that is impartial1 including being able to perform their functions without undue pressure or interference by the command of the affected member of the ,coast ,guard1 the ,personnel ,service ,center1 and the ,united ,states ,coast ,guard ,office of the ,judge ,advocate ,general4 7,e7 ,the frequency with which members of the ,coast ,guard seek private counsel in lieu of counsel appointed by the ,coast ,guard ,office of the ,judge ,advocate ,general1 and the frequency of so doing at each member pay grade4 7,f7 ,the timeliness of determinations1 guidance1 and access to medical evaluations necessary for retirement or rating determinations and overall well-being of the affected member of the ,coast ,guard4 7,g7 ,the guidance1 formal or otherwise1 provided by the ,personnel ,service ,center and the ,coast ,guard ,office of the ,judge ,advocate ,general1 other than the counsel directly representing affected members of the ,coast ,guard1 in communication with medical personnel examining members4 7,h7 ,the guidance1 formal or otherwise1 provided by the medical professionals reviewing cases within the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system to affected members of the ,coast ,guard1 and the extent to which such guidance is disclosed to the commanders1 commanding officers1 or other members of the ,coast ,guard in the chain of command of such affected members4 7,i7 ,the feasibility of establishing a program to allow members of the ,coast ,guard to select an expedited review to ensure completion of the ,medical ,evaluation ,board report not later than #ahj days after the date on which such review was initiated4 7b7 ,report ,the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 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 conducted under subsection 7a7 and recommendations for improving the physical disability evaluation system process4 7c7 ,updated policy guidance 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date on which the report under subsection 7b7 is submitted1 the ,commandant shall issue updated policy guidance in response to the findings and recommendations contained in the report4 7#b7 ,elements ,the updated policy guidance required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,a requirement that a member of the ,coast ,guard1 or the counsel of such a member1 shall be informed of the contents of1 and afforded the option to be present for1 any communication between the member's command and the ,personnel ,service ,center1 or other ,coast ,guard entity1 with respect to the duty status of the member4 7,b7 ,an exception to the requirement described in subparagraph 7,a7 that such a member or the counsel of the member is not required to be informed of the contents of such a communication if it is demonstrated that there is a legitimate health and safety need for the member to be excluded from such communications1 supported by a medical opinion that such exclusion is necessary for the health or safety of the member1 command1 or any other individual4 7,c7 ,an option to allow a member of the ,coast ,guard to initiate an evaluation by a ,medical ,evaluation ,board if a ,coast ,guard healthcare provider1 or other military healthcare provider1 has raised a concern about the ability of the member to continue serving in the ,coast ,guard1 in accordance with existing medical and physical disability policy4 7,d7 ,an updated policy to remove the command endorsement requirement for retirement or separation unless absolutely necessary for the benefit of the ,united ,states4 #bfb4 ,expansion of authority for multirater assessments of certain personnel 7a7 ,in general ,section #bahb7;a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking paragraph 7#b7 and inserting the following3 7#b7 ,officers ,each officer of the ,coast ,guard shall undergo a multirater assessment before promotion to-- 7,a7 the grade of ,o-#d2 7,b7 the grade of ,o-#e2 and 7,c7 the grade of ,o-#f4 7#c7 ,enlisted members ,each enlisted member of the ,coast ,guard shall undergo a multirater assessment before advancement to-- 7,a7 the grade of ,e-#g2 7,b7 the grade of ,e-#h2 7,c7 the grade of ,e-#i2 and 7,d7 the grade of ,e-#aj4 7#d7 ,selection ,a reviewee shall not be permitted to select the peers and subordinates who provide opinions for his or her multirater assessment4 7#e7 ,post-assessment elements 7,a7 ,in general ,following an assessment of an individual pursuant to paragraphs 7#a7 through 7#c71 the individual shall be provided appropriate post-assessment counseling and leadership coaching4 7,b7 ,availability of results ,the supervisor of the individual assessed shall be provided with the results of the multirater assessment4 4 7b7 ,cost assessment 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall provide to the appropriate committees of ,congress an estimate of the costs associated with implementing the amendment made by this section4 7#b7 ,appropriate committees of ,congress defined ,in this subsection1 the term appropriate committees of ,congress means-- 7,a7 the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,senate2 and 7,b7 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,house of ,representatives4 #bfc4 ,promotion parity 7a7 ,information ,to be furnished ,section #baae7;a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in paragraph 7#a71 by striking 2 and and inserting a semicolon2 7#b7 in paragraph 7#b71 by striking the period at the end and inserting 2 and2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following3 7#c7 in the case of an eligible officer considered for promotion to a rank above lieutenant1 any credible information of an adverse nature1 including any substantiated adverse finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry and any information placed in the personnel service record of the officer under section #agde7;a7 of the ,national ,defense ,authorization ,act for ,fiscal ,year #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-ff2 #aj ,u4,s4,c4 #aefa note71 shall be furnished to the selection board in accordance with standards and procedures set out in the regulations prescribed by the ,secretary4 4 7b7 ,special selection review boards 7#a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,i of chapter #ba of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting after section #babj the following3 #babj;a4 ,special selection review boards 7a7 ,in general 7#a7 ,if the ,secretary determines that a person recommended by a promotion board for promotion to a grade at or below the grade of rear admiral is the subject of credible information of an adverse nature1 including any substantiated adverse finding or conclusion described in section #baae7;a77#c7 of this title that was not furnished to the promotion board during its consideration of the person for promotion as otherwise required by such section1 the ,secretary shall convene a special selection review board under this section to review the person and recommend whether the recommendation for promotion of the person should be sustained4 7#b7 ,if a person and the recommendation for promotion of the person is subject to review under this section by a special selection review board convened under this section1 the name of the person-- 7,a7 shall not be disseminated or publicly released on the list of officers recommended for promotion by the promotion board recommending the promotion of the person2 and 7,b7 shall not be forwarded to the ,president or the ,senate1 as applicable1 or included on a promotion list under section #baba of this title4 7b7 ,convening 7#a7 ,any special selection review board convened under this section shall be convened in accordance with the provisions of section #babj7;c7 of this title4 7#b7 ,any special selection review board convened under this section may review such number of persons1 and recommendations for promotion of such persons1 as the ,secretary shall specify in convening such special selection review board4 7c7 ,information considered 7#a7 ,in reviewing a person and recommending whether the recommendation for promotion of the person should be sustained under this section1 a special selection review board convened under this section shall be furnished and consider the following3 7,a7 ,the record and information concerning the person furnished in accordance with section #baae of this title to the promotion board that recommended the person for promotion4 7,b7 ,any credible information of an adverse nature on the person1 including any substantiated adverse finding or conclusion from an officially documented investigation or inquiry described in section #baae7;a77#c7 of this title4 7#b7 ,the furnishing of information to a special selection review board under paragraph 7#a77;,b7 shall be governed by the standards and procedures referred to in section #baae of this title4 7#c7 7,a7 ,before information on a person described in paragraph 7#a77;,b7 is furnished to a special selection review board for purposes of this section1 the ,secretary shall ensure that-- 7i7 such information is made available to the person2 and 7ii7 subject to subparagraphs 7,c7 and 7,d71 the person is afforded a reasonable opportunity to submit comments on such information to the special selection review board before its review of the person and the recommendation for promotion of the person under this section4 7,b7 ,if information on a person described in paragraph 7#a77;,b7 is not made available to the person as otherwise required by subparagraph 7,a77i7 due to the classification status of such information1 the person shall1 to the maximum extent practicable1 be furnished a summary of such information appropriate to the person's authorization for access to classified information4 7,c7 7i7 ,an opportunity to submit comments on information is not required for a person under subparagraph 7,a77ii7 if-- 7,i7 such information was made available to the person in connection with the furnishing of such information under section #baae7;a7 of this title to the promotion board that recommended the promotion of the person subject to review under this section2 and 7,,ii7 the person submitted comments on such information to that promotion board4 7ii7 ,the comments on information of a person described in clause 7i77,,ii7 shall be furnished to the special selection review board4 7,d7 ,a person may waive either or both of the following3 7i7 ,the right to submit comments to a special selection review board under subparagraph 7,a77ii74 7ii7 ,the furnishing of comments to a special selection review board under subparagraph 7,c77ii74 7d7 ,consideration 7#a7 ,in considering the record and information on a person under this section1 the special selection review board shall compare such record and information with an appropriate sampling of the records of those officers who were recommended for promotion by the promotion board that recommended the person for promotion1 and an appropriate sampling of the records of those officers who were considered by and not recommended for promotion by that promotion board4 7#b7 ,records and information shall be presented to a special selection review board for purposes of paragraph 7#a7 in a manner that does not indicate or disclose the person or persons for whom the special selection review board was convened4 7#c7 ,in considering whether the recommendation for promotion of a person should be sustained under this section1 a special selection review board shall1 to the greatest extent practicable1 apply standards used by the promotion board that recommended the person for promotion4 7#d7 ,the recommendation for promotion of a person may be sustained under this section only if the special selection review board determines that the person-- 7,a7 ranks on an order of merit created by the special selection review board as better qualified for promotion than the sample officer highest on the order of merit list who was considered by and not recommended for promotion by the promotion board concerned2 and 7,b7 is comparable in qualification for promotion to those sample officers who were recommended for promotion by that promotion board4 7#e7 ,a recommendation for promotion of a person may be sustained under this section only by a vote of a majority of the members of the special selection review board4 7#f7 ,if a special selection review board does not sustain a recommendation for promotion of a person under this section1 the person shall be considered to have failed of selection for promotion4 7e7 ,reports 7#a7 ,each special selection review board convened under this section shall submit to the ,secretary a written report1 signed by each member of the board1 containing the name of each person whose recommendation for promotion it recommends for sustainment and certifying that the board has carefully considered the record and information of each person whose name was referred to it4 7#b7 ,the provisions of sections #baag7;a7 of this title apply to the report and proceedings of a special selection review board convened under this section in the same manner as they apply to the report and proceedings of a promotion board convened under section #bajf of this title4 7f7 ,appointment of ,persons 7#a7 ,if the report of a special selection review board convened under this section recommends the sustainment of the recommendation for promotion to the next higher grade of a person whose name was referred to it for review under this section1 and the ,president approves the report1 the person shall1 as soon as practicable1 be appointed to that grade in accordance with section #baba of this title4 7#b7 ,a person who is appointed to the next higher grade as described in paragraph 7#a7 shall1 upon that appointment1 have the same date of rank1 the same effective date for the pay and allowances of that grade1 and the same position on the active-duty list as the person would have had pursuant to the original recommendation for promotion of the promotion board concerned4 7g7 ,regulations ,the ,secretary shall prescribe regulations to carry out this section4 7h7 ,promotion board defined ,in this section1 the term promotion board means a selection board convened by the ,secretary under section #bajf of this title4 4 7#b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,i of chapter #ba of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section #babj the following3 #babj;a4 ,special selection review boards 4 7c7 ,availability of information ,section #baah of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 7e7 ,if the ,secretary makes a recommendation under this section that the name of an officer be removed from a report of a selection board and the recommendation is accompanied by information that was not presented to that selection board1 that information shall be made available to that officer4 ,the officer shall then be afforded a reasonable opportunity to submit comments on that information to the officials making the recommendation and the officials reviewing the recommendation4 ,if an eligible officer cannot be given access to such information because of its classification status1 the officer shall1 to the maximum extent practicable1 be provided with an appropriate summary of the information4 4 7d7 ,delay of promotion ,section #baba7;f7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 7f7 7#a7 ,the promotion of an officer may be delayed without prejudice if any of the following applies3 7,a7 ,the officer is under investigation or proceedings of a court-martial or a board of officers are pending against the officer4 7,b7 ,a criminal proceeding in a ,federal or ,state court is pending against the officer4 7,c7 ,the ,secretary determines that credible information of an adverse nature1 including a substantiated adverse finding or conclusion described in section #baae7;a77#c71 with respect to the officer will result in the convening of a special selection review board under section #babj;a of this title to review the officer and recommend whether the recommendation for promotion of the officer should be sustained4 7#b7 7,a7 ,subject to subparagraph 7,b71 a promotion may be delayed under this subsection until1 as applicable-- 7i7 the completion of the investigation or proceedings described in subparagraph 7,a72 7ii7 a final decision in the proceeding described in subparagraph 7,b7 is issued2 or 7iii7 the special selection review board convened under section #babj;a of this title issues recommendations with respect to the officer4 7,b7 ,unless the ,secretary determines that a further delay is necessary in the public interest1 a promotion may not be delayed under this subsection for more than one year after the date the officer would otherwise have been promoted4 7#c7 ,an officer whose promotion is delayed under this subsection and who is subsequently promoted shall be given the date of rank and position on the active duty promotion list in the grade to which promoted that he would have held had his promotion not been so delayed4 4 #bfd4 ,partnership program to diversify the ,coast ,guard 7a7 ,establishment ,the ,commandant shall establish a program for the purpose of increasing the number of underrepresented minorities in the enlisted ranks of the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,partnerships ,in carrying out the program established under subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 seek to enter into #a or more partnerships with eligible entities-- 7,a7 to increase the visibility of ,coast ,guard careers2 7,b7 to promote curriculum development-- 7i7 to enable acceptance into the ,coast ,guard2 and 7ii7 to improve success on relevant exams1 such as the ,armed ,services ,vocational ,aptitude ,battery2 and 7,c7 to provide mentoring for students entering and beginning ,coast ,guard careers2 and 7#b7 enter into a partnership with an existing ,junior ,reserve ,officers' ,training ,corps for the purpose of promoting ,coast ,guard careers4 7c7 ,eligible institution defined ,in this section1 the term eligible institution means-- 7#a7 an institution of higher education 7as defined in section #aja of the ,higher ,education ,act of #aife 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajja772 7#b7 an institution that provides a level of educational attainment that is less than a bachelor's degree2 7#c7 a part ,b institution 7as defined in section #cbb of the ,higher ,education ,act of #aife 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajfa772 7#d7 a ,tribal ,college or ,university 7as defined in section #caf7;b7 of that ,act 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajei;c7b7772 7#e7 a ,hispanic-serving institution 7as defined in section #ejb of that ,act 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #aaja;a772 7#f7 an ,alaska ,native-serving institution or a ,native ,hawaiian-serving institution 7as defined in section #cag7;b7 of that ,act 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajei;d7b7772 7#g7 a ,predominantly ,black institution 7as defined in section #cga7;c7 of that ,act 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajgaq7c7772 7#h7 an ,asian ,american and ,native ,american ,pacific ,islander-serving institution 7as defined in such section72 and 7#i7 a ,native ,american-serving nontribal institution 7as defined in such section74 #bfe4 ,expansion of ,coast ,guard ,junior ,reserve ,officers' ,training ,corps 7a7 ,in general ,section #cbj of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by redesignating subsection 7c7 as subsection 7d72 7#b7 in subsection 7b71 by striking subsection 7c7 and inserting subsection 7d72 and 7#c7 by inserting after subsection 7b7 the following3 7c7 ,scope ,beginning on ,december #ca1 #bjbe1 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 #a such program established in each ,coast ,guard district4 4 7b7 ,cost assessment ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall provide to ,congress an estimate of the costs associated with implementing the amendments made by this section4 #bff4 ,improving representation of women and racial and ethnic minorities among ,coast ,guard active-duty members 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 in consultation with the ,advisory ,board on ,women at the ,coast ,guard ,academy established under section #aijd of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 and the minority outreach team program established by section #aije of such title1 the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 determine which recommendations in the ,,rand representation report may practicably be implemented to promote improved representation in the ,coast ,guard of-- 7,a7 women2 and 7,b7 racial and ethnic minorities2 and 7#b7 submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the actions the ,commandant has taken1 or plans to take1 to implement such recommendations4 7b7 ,curriculum and training ,in the case of any action the ,commandant plans to take to implement recommendations described in subsection 7a77#a7 that relate to modification or development of curriculum and training1 such modified curriculum and trainings shall be provided at officer and accession points and at leadership courses managed by the ,coast ,guard ,leadership ,development ,center4 7c7 ,definition of ,,rand representation report ,in this section1 the term ,,rand representation report means the report of the ,homeland ,security ,operational ,analysis ,center of the ,,rand ,corporation entitled ,improving the ,representation of ,women and ,racial_/,ethnic ,minorities ,among ,u4,s4 ,coast ,guard ,active-,duty ,members issued on ,august #aa1 #bjba4 #bfg4 ,strategy to enhance diversity through recruitment and accession 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall develop a #aj-year strategy to enhance ,coast ,guard diversity through recruitment and accession-- 7#a7 at educational institutions at the high school and higher education levels2 and 7#b7 for the officer and enlisted ranks4 7b7 ,report 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the strategy developed under subsection 7a74 7#b7 ,elements ,the report required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,a description of existing ,coast ,guard recruitment and accession programs at educational institutions at the high school and higher education levels4 7,b7 ,an explanation of the manner in which the strategy supports the ,coast ,guard's overall diversity and inclusion action plan4 7,c7 ,a description of the manner in which existing programs and partnerships will be modified or expanded to enhance diversity in recruiting and accession at the high school and higher education levels4 #bfh4 ,support for ,coast ,guard ,academy 7a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,,ii of chapter #i of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #iec4 ,support for ,coast ,guard ,academy 7a7 ,authority 7#a7 ,contracts and cooperative agreements 7,a7 ,the ,commandant may enter contract and cooperative agreements with #a or more qualified organizations for the purpose of supporting the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy4 7,b7 ,notwithstanding section #bcjd7k7 of title #aj1 the ,commandant may enter into such contracts and cooperative agreements on a sole source basis pursuant to section #bcjd7;c77#e7 of title #aj4 7,c7 ,notwithstanding chapter #fc of title #ca1 a cooperative agreement under this section may be used to acquire property or services for the direct benefit or use of the ,coast ,guard ,academy4 7#b7 ,financial controls 7,a7 ,before entering into a contract or cooperative agreement under paragraph 7#a71 the ,commandant shall ensure that the contract or agreement includes appropriate financial controls to account for the resources of the ,coast ,guard ,academy and the qualified organization concerned in accordance with accepted accounting principles4 7,b7 ,any such contract or cooperative agreement shall contain a provision that allows the ,commandant to review1 as the ,commandant considers necessary1 the financial accounts of the qualified organization to determine whether the operations of the qualified organization-- 7i7 are consistent with the terms of the contract or cooperative agreement2 and 7ii7 would compromise the integrity or appearance of integrity of any program of the ,department of ,homeland ,security4 7#c7 ,leases ,for the purpose of supporting the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy1 the ,commandant may1 consistent with section #ejd7;a77#ac71 rent or lease real property located at the ,coast ,guard ,academy to a qualified organization1 except that proceeds from such a lease shall be retained and expended in accordance with subsection 7f74 7b7 ,support services 7#a7 ,authority ,to the extent required by a contract or cooperative agreement under subsection 7a71 the ,commandant may provide support services to a qualified organization while the qualified organization conducts its support activities at the ,coast ,guard ,academy only if the ,commandant determines that the provision of such services is essential for the support of the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy4 7#b7 ,no liability of the ,united ,states ,support services may only be provided without any liability of the ,united ,states to a qualified organization4 7#c7 ,support services defined ,in this subsection1 the term support services includes utilities1 office furnishings and equipment1 communications services1 records staging and archiving1 audio and video support1 and security systems1 in conjunction with the leasing or licensing of property4 7c7 ,transfers from nonappropriated fund operation 7#a7 ,except as provided in paragraph 7#b71 the ,commandant may1 subject to the acceptance of the qualified organization concerned1 transfer to the qualified organization all title to and ownership of the assets and liabilities of the ,coast ,guard nonappropriated fund instrumentality1 the function of which includes providing support for the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy1 including bank accounts and financial reserves in the accounts of such fund instrumentality1 equipment1 supplies1 and other personal property4 7#b7 ,the ,commandant may not transfer under paragraph 7#a7 any interest in real property4 7d7 ,acceptance of support from qualified organization 7#a7 ,in general ,notwithstanding section #acdb of title #ca1 the ,commandant may accept from a qualified organization funds1 supplies1 and services for the support of the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy4 7#b7 ,employees of qualified organization ,for purposes of this section1 employees or personnel of the qualified organization may not be considered to be employees of the ,united ,states4 7#c7 ,funds received from ,,ncaa ,the ,commandant may accept funds from the ,national ,collegiate ,athletic ,association to support the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy4 7#d7 ,limitation ,the ,commandant shall ensure that contributions under this subsection and expenditure of funds pursuant to subsection 7f7-- 7,a7 do not reflect unfavorably on the ability of the ,coast ,guard1 any employee of the ,coast ,guard1 or any member of the armed forces 7as defined in section #aja7;a7 of title #aj7 to carry out any responsibility or duty in a fair and objective manner2 or 7,b7 compromise the integrity or appearance of integrity of any program of the ,coast ,guard1 or any individual involved in such a program4 7e7 ,trademarks and service marks 7#a7 ,licensing1 marketing1 and sponsorship agreements ,an agreement under subsection 7a7 may1 consistent with section #bbfj of title #aj 7other than subsection 7d7 of such section71 authorize a qualified organization to enter into licensing1 marketing1 and sponsorship agreements relating to trademarks and service marks identifying the ,coast ,guard ,academy1 subject to the approval of the ,commandant4 7#b7 ,limitations ,a licensing1 marketing1 or sponsorship agreement may not be entered into under paragraph 7#a7 if-- 7,a7 such agreement would reflect unfavorably on the ability of the ,coast ,guard1 any employee of the ,coast ,guard1 or any member of the armed forces to carry out any responsibility or duty in a fair and objective manner2 or 7,b7 the ,commandant determines that the use of the trademark or service mark would compromise the integrity or appearance of integrity of any program of the ,coast ,guard or any individual involved in such a program4 7f7 ,retention and use of funds ,funds received by the ,commandant under this section may be retained for use to support the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy and shall remain available until expended4 7g7 ,service on qualified organization board of directors ,a qualified organization is a designated entity for which authorization under sections #ajcc7;a7 and #aehi7;a7 of title #aj1 may be provided4 7h7 ,conditions ,the authority provided in this section with respect to a qualified organization is available only so long as the qualified organization continues-- 7#a7 to qualify as a nonprofit organization under section #eja7;c77#c7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf and operates in accordance with this section1 the law of the ,state of ,connecticut1 and the constitution and bylaws of the qualified organization2 and 7#b7 to operate exclusively to support the athletic programs of the ,coast ,guard ,academy4 7i7 ,qualified organization defined ,in this section1 the term qualified organization means an organization-- 7#a7 described in subsection 7c77#c7 of section #eja of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf and exempt from taxation under subsection 7a7 of that section2 and 7#b7 established by the ,coast ,guard ,academy ,alumni ,association solely for the purpose of supporting ,coast ,guard athletics4 #ied4 ,mixed-funded athletic and recreational extracurricular programs3 authority to manage appropriated funds in same manner as nonappropriated funds 7a7 ,authority ,in the case of a ,coast ,guard ,academy mixed-funded athletic or recreational extracurricular program1 the ,commandant may designate funds appropriated to the ,coast ,guard and available for that program to be treated as nonappropriated funds and expended for that program in accordance with laws applicable to the expenditure of nonappropriated funds4 ,appropriated funds so designated shall be considered to be nonappropriated funds for all purposes and shall remain available until expended4 7b7 ,covered programs ,in this section1 the term ,coast ,guard ,academy mixed-funded athletic or recreational extracurricular program means an athletic or recreational extracurricular program of the ,coast ,guard ,academy to which each of the following applies3 7#a7 ,the program is not considered a morale1 welfare1 or recreation program4 7#b7 ,the program is supported through appropriated funds4 7#c7 ,the program is supported by a nonappropriated fund instrumentality4 7#d7 ,the program is not a private organization and is not operated by a private organization4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,,ii of chapter #i title #ad ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #iec4 ,support for ,coast ,guard ,academy4#ied4 ,mixed-funded athletic and recreational extracurricular programs3 authority to manage appropriated funds in same manner as nonappropriated funds4 4 #bfi4 ,training for congressional affairs personnel 7a7 ,in general ,section #cae of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 #cae4 ,training for congressional affairs personnel 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall develop a training course1 which shall be administered in person1 on the workings of ,congress for any member of the ,coast ,guard selected for a position as a fellow1 liaison1 counsel1 administrative staff for the ,coast ,guard ,office of ,congressional and ,governmental ,affairs1 or any ,coast ,guard district or area governmental affairs officer4 7b7 ,course subject matter 7#a7 ,in general ,the training course required by this section shall provide an overview and introduction to ,congress and the ,federal legislative process1 including-- 7,a7 the congressional budget process2 7,b7 the congressional appropriations process2 7,c7 the congressional authorization process2 7,d7 the ,senate advice and consent process for ,presidential nominees2 7,e7 the ,senate advice and consent process for treaty ratification2 7,f7 the roles of ,members of ,congress and congressional staff in the legislative process2 7,g7 the concept and underlying purposes of congressional oversight within the governance framework of separation of powers2 7,h7 the roles of ,coast ,guard fellows1 liaisons1 counsels1 governmental affairs officers1 the ,coast ,guard ,office of ,program ,review1 the ,coast ,guard ,headquarters program offices1 and any other entity the ,commandant considers relevant2 and 7,i7 the roles and responsibilities of ,coast ,guard public affairs and external communications personnel with respect to ,members of ,congress and their staff necessary to enhance communication between ,coast ,guard units1 sectors1 and districts and ,member offices and committees of jurisdiction so as to ensure visibility of ,coast ,guard activities4 7#b7 ,detail within ,coast ,guard ,office of ,budget and ,programs 7,a7 ,in general ,at the written request of the receiving congressional office1 the training course required by this section shall include a multi-day detail within the ,coast ,guard ,office of ,budget and ,programs to ensure adequate exposure to ,coast ,guard policy1 oversight1 and requests from ,congress4 7,b7 ,nonconsecutive detail permitted ,a detail under this paragraph is not required to be consecutive with the balance of the training4 7c7 ,completion of required training ,a member of the ,coast ,guard selected for a position described in subsection 7a7 shall complete the training required by this section before the date on which such member reports for duty for such position4 4 #bgj4 ,strategy for retention of cuttermen 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall publish a strategy to improve incentives to attract and retain a diverse workforce serving on ,coast ,guard cutters4 7b7 ,elements ,the strategy required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,policies to improve flexibility in the afloat career path1 including a policy that enables members of the ,coast ,guard serving on ,coast ,guard cutters to transition between operations afloat and operations ashore assignments without detriment to their career progression4 7#b7 ,a review of current officer requirements for afloat positions at each pay grade1 and an assessment as to whether such requirements are appropriate or present undue limitations4 7#c7 ,strategies to improve crew comfort afloat1 such as berthing modifications to accommodate mixed-gender crew and gender-nonconforming crew4 7#d7 ,actionable steps to improve access to highspeed internet capable of video conference for the purposes of medical1 educational1 and personal use by members of the ,coast ,guard serving on ,coast ,guard cutters4 7#e7 ,an assessment of the effectiveness of bonuses to attract members to serve at sea and retain talented members of the ,coast ,guard serving on ,coast ,guard cutters to serve as leaders in senior enlisted positions1 department head positions1 and command positions4 7#f7 ,policies to ensure that high-performing members of the ,coast ,guard serving on ,coast ,guard cutters are competitive for special assignments1 postgraduate education1 senior service schools1 and other career-enhancing positions4 #bga4 ,study on extremism in the ,coast ,guard 7a7 ,study 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on the presence of extremism within the workforce of the ,coast ,guard4 7#b7 ,elements ,the study required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an assessment of-- 7i7 the extent to which extremist ideologies1 including ideologies that encourage1 or could lead to1 violence1 exists within the workforce of the ,coast ,guard2 7ii7 the unique challenges the ,coast ,guard faces in addressing such ideologies within the workforce of the ,coast ,guard2 and 7iii7 the manner in which such ideologies are introduced into the workforce of the ,coast ,guard4 7,b7 ,recommendations on ways to address and eradicate any such ideologies within the workforce of the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,report ,not later than #a year after commencing the study required by subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the findings of the study1 including a description of the recommendations under paragraph 7#b7 of that subsection4 7c7 ,briefing ,not later than #ij days after the date on which the report is submitted under subsection 7b71 the ,commandant shall provide a briefing to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives regarding the recommendations described in the report4 #bgb4 ,study on performance of ,coast ,guard ,force ,readiness ,command 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on the performance of the ,coast ,guard ,force ,readiness ,command4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall include an assessment of the following3 7#a7 ,the actions the ,force ,readiness ,command has taken to develop and implement training for the ,coast ,guard workforce4 7#b7 ,the extent to which the ,force ,readiness ,command-- 7,a7 has assessed performance1 policy1 and training compliance across ,force ,readiness ,command headquarters and field units1 and the results of any such assessment2 and 7,b7 is modifying and expanding ,coast ,guard training to match the future demands of the ,coast ,guard with respect to growth in workforce numbers1 modernization of assets and infrastructure1 and increased global mission demands relating to the ,arctic and ,western ,pacific regions and cyberspace4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after the study required by subsection 7a7 commences1 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the findings of the study4 #bgc4 ,study on frequency of weapons training for ,coast ,guard personnel 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall conduct a study to assess whether current weapons training required for ,coast ,guard law enforcement and other relevant personnel is sufficient4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall-- 7#a7 assess whether there is a need to improve weapons training for ,coast ,guard law enforcement and other relevant personnel2 and 7#b7 identify-- 7,a7 the frequency of such training most likely to ensure adequate weapons training1 proficiency1 and safety among such personnel2 7,b7 ,coast ,guard law enforcement and other applicable personnel who should be prioritized to receive such improved training2 and 7,c7 any challenge posed by a transition to improving such training and offering such training more frequently1 and the resources necessary to address such a challenge4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 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 conducted under subsection 7a74 ,g ,miscellaneous provisions #bha4 ,budgeting of ,coast ,guard relating to certain operations 7a7 ,in general ,chapter #ea of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 as amended by section #beb7;b71 is further amended by adding at the end the following3 #eaad4 ,expenses of performing and executing defense readiness missions and other activities unrelated to ,coast ,guard missions ,the ,commandant shall include in the annual budget submission of the ,president under section #aaje7;a7 of title #ca a dedicated budget line item that adequately represents a calculation of the annual costs and expenditures of performing and executing all defense readiness mission activities1 including-- 7#a7 all expenses related to the ,coast ,guard's coordination1 training1 and execution of defense readiness mission activities in the ,coast ,guard's capacity as an armed force 7as such term is defined in section #aja of title #aj7 in support of ,department of ,defense national security operations and activities or for any other military department or ,defense ,agency 7as such terms are defined in such section72 7#b7 costs associated with ,coast ,guard detachments assigned in support of the ,coast ,guard's defense readiness mission2 and 7#c7 any other related expenses1 costs1 or matters the ,commandant considers appropriate or otherwise of interest to ,congress4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #ea of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 as amended by section #beb7;b71 is further amended by adding at the end the following3 #eaad4 ,expenses of performing and executing defense readiness missions or other activities unrelated to ,coast ,guard missions4 4 #bhb4 ,coast ,guard assistance to ,united ,states ,secret ,service ,section #f of the ,presidential ,protection ,assistance ,act of #aigf 7#ah ,u4,s4,c4 #cjef note7 is amended-- 7#a7 by striking ,executive departments and inserting the following3 7a7 ,except as provided in subsection 7b71 ,executive departments 2 7#b7 by striking ,director2 except that the ,department of ,defense and the ,coast ,guard shall provide such assistance and inserting the following3 8,director4 7b7 7#a7 ,subject to paragraph 7#b71 the ,department of ,defense and the ,coast ,guard shall provide assistance described in subsection 7a7 2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following3 7#b7 7,a7 ,for fiscal year #bjbb1 and each fiscal year thereafter1 the total cost of assistance described in subsection 7a7 provided by the ,coast ,guard on a nonreimbursable basis shall not exceed #ae1jjj1jjj4 7,b7 ,the ,coast ,guard may provide assistance described in subsection 7a7 during a fiscal year in addition to the amount specified in subparagraph 7,a7 on a reimbursable basis4 4 #bhc4 ,conveyance of ,coast ,guard vessels for public purposes 7a7 ,transfer ,section #iad of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjaj 7#ad ,u4,s4,c4 #eja note2 ,public ,law #aaa-bha7 is-- 7#a7 transferred to subchapter ,i of chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code2 7#b7 added at the end so as to follow section #ejh of such title2 7#c7 redesignated as section #eji of such title2 and 7#d7 amended so that the enumerator1 the section heading1 typeface1 and typestyle conform to those appearing in other sections of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code4 7b7 ,clerical amendments 7#a7 ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjaj ,the table of contents in section #a7;b7 of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjaj 7,public ,law #aaa-bha7 is amended by striking the item relating to section #iad4 7#b7 ,title #ad ,the analysis for subchapter ,i of chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #eji4 ,conveyance of ,coast ,guard vessels for public purposes4 4 7c7 ,conveyance of ,coast ,guard vessels for public purposes ,section #eji of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 as transferred and redesignated by subsection 7a71 is amended-- 7#a7 by amending subsection 7a7 to read as follows3 7a7 ,in general ,on request by the ,commandant1 the ,administrator of the ,general ,services ,administration may transfer ownership of a ,coast ,guard vessel or aircraft to an eligible entity for educational1 cultural1 historical1 charitable1 recreational1 or other public purposes if such transfer is authorized by law4 2 and 7#b7 in subsection 7b7-- 7,a7 in paragraph 7#a7-- 7i7 by inserting as if the request were being processed after vessels2 and 7ii7 by inserting 1 as in effect on the date of the enactment of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb after ,code of ,federal ,regulations2 7,b7 in paragraph 7#b7 by inserting 1 as in effect on the date of the enactment of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb after such title2 and 7,c7 in paragraph 7#c71 by striking of the ,coast ,guard4 #bhd4 ,coast ,guard intelligence activities and emergency and extraordinary expenses 7a7 ,in general ,subject to the limitations of subsection 7b7 and with sums made available to the ,director of the ,coast ,guard ,counterintelligence ,service1 the ,commandant may expend funds for human intelligence and counterintelligence activities of any confidential1 emergency1 or extraordinary nature that cannot be anticipated or classified4 ,the ,commandant shall certify that such expenditure was made for an object of a confidential1 emergency1 or extraordinary nature and such a certification is final and conclusive upon the accounting officers of the ,united ,states4 ,a written certification by the ,commandant is sufficient voucher for the expenditure4 7b7 ,limitations 7#a7 ,maximum annual amount ,for each fiscal year1 the ,commandant may not obligate or expend funds under subsection 7a7 in an amount that exceeds #e percent of the funds made available to the ,director of the ,coast ,guard ,counterintelligence ,service for such fiscal year until-- 7,a7 the ,commandant has notified the appropriate committees of ,congress of the intent to obligate or expend the funds in excess of such amount2 and 7,b7 #ae days have elapsed since the date of the notification in accordance with subparagraph 7,a74 7#b7 ,requirements for expenditures in excess of #be1jjj ,the ,commandant may not obligate or expend funds under subsection 7a7 for an expenditure in excess of #be1jjj until-- 7,a7 the ,commandant has notified the appropriate committees of ,congress of the intent to obligate or expend the funds2 and 7,b7 #ae days have elapsed since the date of the notification in accordance with subparagraph 7,a74 7c7 ,waiver ,notwithstanding subsection 7b71 the ,commandant may waive a requirement under such subsection if the ,commandant determines that such a waiver is necessary due to extraordinary circumstances that affect the national security of the ,united ,states4 ,if the ,commandant issues a waiver under this subsection1 the ,commandant shall submit to the appropriate committees of ,congress1 by not later than #dh hours after issuing the waiver1 written notice of and justification for the waiver4 7d7 ,reports 7#a7 ,in general ,not less frequently than semiannually1 the ,commandant shall-- 7,a7 submit to the appropriate committees of ,congress a report on all expenditures during the preceding semiannual period under subsection 7a72 and 7,b7 provide a briefing to the appropriate committees of ,congress on the report submitted under subparagraph 7,a74 7#b7 ,contents ,each report submitted under paragraph 7#a77;,a7 shall include1 for each individual expenditure covered by such report in an amount in excess of #be1jjj1 the following3 7,a7 ,a detailed description of the purpose of such expenditure4 7,b7 ,the amount of such expenditure4 7,c7 ,an identification of the approving authority for such expenditure4 7,d7 ,a justification of why other authorities available to the ,coast ,guard could not be used for such expenditure4 7,e7 ,any other additional information as the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7e7 ,special rule ,the authority of this section shall be executed in a manner that does not contravene1 and is consistent with1 the responsibility and authority of the ,director of ,national ,intelligence as described in sections #cjbc and #cjbd of title #ej1 ,united ,states ,code4 7f7 ,appropriate committees of congress ,in this section1 the term appropriate committees of ,congress means-- 7#a7 the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate2 and 7#b7 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives4 #bhe4 ,transfer and conveyance 7a7 ,in general 7#a7 ,requirement ,the ,commandant shall1 without consideration1 transfer in accordance with subsection 7b7 and convey in accordance with subsection 7c7 a parcel of the real property described in paragraph 7#b71 including any improvements thereon1 to free the ,coast ,guard of liability for any unforeseen environmental or remediation of substances unknown that may exist on1 or emanate from1 such parcel4 7#b7 ,property ,the property described in this paragraph is real property at ,dauphin ,island1 ,alabama1 located at #ajj ,agassiz ,street1 and consisting of a total of approximately #ce4fc acres4 ,the exact acreage and legal description of the parcel of such property to be transferred or conveyed in accordance with subsection 7b7 or 7c71 respectively1 shall be determined by a survey satisfactory to the ,commandant4 7b7 ,to the ,secretary of ,health and ,human ,services ,the ,commandant shall transfer1 as described in subsection 7a71 to the ,secretary of ,health and ,human ,services 7in this section referred to as the ,secretary71 for use by the ,food and ,drug ,administration1 custody and control of a portion1 consisting of approximately #d acres1 of the parcel of real property described in such subsection1 to be identified by agreement between the ,commandant and the ,secretary4 7c7 ,to the ,state of ,alabama ,the ,commandant shall convey1 as described in subsection 7a71 to the ,marine ,environmental ,sciences ,consortium1 a unit of the government of the ,state of ,alabama1 located at ,dauphin ,island1 ,alabama1 all rights1 title1 and interest of the ,united ,states in and to such portion of the parcel described in such subsection that is not transferred to the ,secretary under subsection 7b74 7d7 ,payments and costs of transfer and conveyance 7#a7 ,payments 7,a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary shall pay costs to be incurred by the ,coast ,guard1 or reimburse the ,coast ,guard for such costs incurred by the ,coast ,guard1 to carry out the transfer and conveyance required by this section1 including survey costs1 appraisal costs1 costs for environmental documentation related to the transfer and conveyance1 and any other necessary administrative costs related to the transfer and conveyance4 7,b7 ,funds ,notwithstanding section #ghj of division ,b of the ,further ,consolidated ,appropriations ,act1 #bjbj 7,public ,law #aaf-id71 any amounts that are made available to the ,secretary under such section and not obligated on the date of enactment of this ,act shall be available to the ,secretary for the purpose described in subparagraph 7,a74 7#b7 ,treatment of amounts received ,amounts received by the ,commandant as reimbursement under paragraph 7#a7 shall be credited to the ,coast ,guard ,housing ,fund established under section #bidf of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 or the account that was used to pay the costs incurred by the ,coast ,guard in carrying out the transfer or conveyance under this section1 as determined by the ,commandant1 and shall be made available until expended4 ,amounts so credited shall be merged with amounts in such fund or account and shall be available for the same purposes1 and subject to the same conditions and limitations1 as amounts in such fund or account4 #bhf4 ,transparency and oversight 7a7 ,notification 7#a7 ,in general ,subject to subsection 7b71 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating1 or the designee of the ,secretary1 shall notify the appropriate committees of ,congress and the ,coast ,guard ,office of ,congressional and ,governmental ,affairs not later than #c full business days before-- 7,a7 making or awarding a grant allocation or grant in excess of #a1jjj1jjj2 7,b7 making or awarding a contract1 other transaction agreement1 or task or delivery order on a ,coast ,guard multiple award contract1 or issuing a letter of intent totaling more than #d1jjj1jjj2 7,c7 awarding a task or delivery order requiring an obligation of funds in an amount greater than #aj1jjj1jjj from multi-year ,coast ,guard funds2 7,d7 making a sole-source grant award2 or 7,e7 announcing publicly the intention to make or award an item described in subparagraph 7,a71 7,b71 7,c71 or 7,d71 including a contract covered by the ,federal ,acquisition ,regulation4 7#b7 ,element ,a notification under this subsection shall include-- 7,a7 the amount of the award2 7,b7 the fiscal year for which the funds for the award were appropriated2 7,c7 the type of contract2 7,d7 an identification of the entity awarded the contract1 such as the name and location of the entity2 and 7,e7 the account from which the funds are to be drawn4 7b7 ,exception ,if the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating determines that compliance with subsection 7a7 would pose a substantial risk to human life1 health1 or safety1 the ,secretary-- 7#a7 may make an award or issue a letter described in that subsection without the notification required under that subsection2 and 7#b7 shall notify the appropriate committees of ,congress not later than #e full business days after such an award is made or letter issued4 7c7 ,applicability ,subsection 7a7 shall not apply to funds that are not available for obligation4 7d7 ,appropriate committees of ,congress defined ,in this section1 the term appropriate committees of ,congress means-- 7#a7 the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,senate2 and 7#b7 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,house of ,representatives4 #bhg4 ,study on safety inspection program for containers and facilities 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant1 in consultation with the ,commissioner of ,u4,s4 ,customs and ,border ,protection1 shall complete a study on the safety inspection program for containers 7as defined in section #hjeja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code7 and designated waterfront facilities receiving containers4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,an evaluation and review of such safety inspection program4 7#b7 ,a determination of-- 7,a7 the number of container inspections conducted annually by the ,coast ,guard during the preceding #aj-year period1 as compared to the number of containers moved through ,united ,states ports annually during such period2 and 7,b7 the number of qualified ,coast ,guard container and facility inspectors1 and an assessment as to whether1 during the preceding #aj-year period1 there have been a sufficient number of such inspectors to carry out the mission of the ,coast ,guard4 7#c7 ,an evaluation of the training programs available to such inspectors and the adequacy of such training programs during the preceding #aj-year period4 7#d7 ,an assessment as to whether such training programs adequately prepare future leaders for leadership positions in the ,coast ,guard4 7#e7 ,an identification of areas of improvement for such program in the interest of commerce and national security1 and the costs associated with such improvements4 7c7 ,report to ,congress ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 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 required by subsection 7a71 including the personnel and resource requirements necessary for such program4 ,,iii ,environment #cja4 ,definition of ,secretary ,except as otherwise specifically provided1 in this title1 the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating4 ,a ,marine mammals #caa4 ,definitions ,in this subtitle3 7#a7 ,appropriate congressional committees ,the term appropriate congressional committees means-- 7,a7 the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate2 and 7,b7 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure and the ,committee on ,natural ,resources of the ,house of ,representatives4 7#b7 ,core foraging habitats ,the term core foraging habitats means areas-- 7,a7 with biological and physical oceanographic features that aggregate ,calanus finmarchicus2 and 7,b7 where ,north ,atlantic right whales foraging aggregations have been well documented4 7#c7 ,exclusive economic zone ,the term exclusive economic zone has the meaning given that term in section #ajg of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7#d7 ,institution of higher education ,the term institution of higher education has the meaning given that term in section #aja7;a7 of the ,higher ,education ,act of #aife 7#bj ,u4,s4,c4 #ajja7;a774 7#e7 ,large cetacean ,the term large cetacean means all endangered or threatened species within-- 7,a7 the suborder ,mysticeti2 7,b7 the genera ,physeter2 or 7,c7 the genera ,orcinus4 7#f7 ,near real-time ,the term near real-time1 with respect to monitoring of whales1 means that visual1 acoustic1 or other detections of whales are transmitted and reported as soon as technically feasible after such detections have occurred4 7#g7 ,nonprofit organization ,the term nonprofit organization means an organization that is described in section #eja7;c7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf and exempt from tax under section #eja7;a7 of such ,code4 7#h7 ,puget ,sound region ,the term ,puget ,sound region means the ,vessel ,traffic ,service ,puget ,sound area described in section #afa4ee of title #cc1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7as of the date of the enactment of this ,act74 7#i7 ,tribal government ,the term ,tribal government means the recognized governing body of any ,indian or ,alaska ,native ,tribe1 band1 nation1 pueblo1 village1 community1 component band1 or component reservation1 individually identified 7including parenthetically7 in the list published most recently as of the date of the enactment of this ,act pursuant to section #ajd of the ,federally ,recognized ,indian ,tribe ,list ,act of #aiid 7#be ,u4,s4,c4 #eaca74 7#aj7 ,under ,secretary ,the term ,under ,secretary means the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere4 #cab4 ,assistance to ports to reduce the impacts of vessel traffic and port operations on marine mammals 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,under ,secretary1 in consultation with the ,director of the ,united ,states ,fish and ,wildlife ,service1 the ,secretary1 the ,secretary of ,defense1 and the ,administrator of the ,maritime ,administration1 shall establish a grant program to provide assistance to eligible entities to develop and implement mitigation measures that will lead to a quantifiable reduction in threats to marine mammals from shipping activities and port operations4 7b7 ,eligible entities ,an entity is an eligible entity for purposes of assistance awarded under subsection 7a7 if the entity is-- 7#a7 a port authority for a port2 7#b7 a ,state1 regional1 local1 or ,tribal government1 or an ,alaska ,native or ,native ,hawaiian entity that has jurisdiction over a maritime port authority or a port2 7#c7 an academic institution1 research institution1 or nonprofit organization working in partnership with a port2 or 7#d7 a consortium of entities described in paragraphs 7#a71 7#b71 and 7#c74 7c7 ,eligible uses ,assistance awarded under subsection 7a7 may be used to develop1 assess1 and carry out activities that reduce threats to marine mammals by-- 7#a7 reducing underwater stressors related to marine traffic2 7#b7 reducing mortality and serious injury from vessel strikes and other physical disturbances2 7#c7 monitoring sound2 7#d7 reducing vessel interactions with marine mammals2 7#e7 conducting other types of monitoring that are consistent with reducing the threats to1 and enhancing the habitats of1 marine mammals2 or 7#f7 supporting ,state agencies and ,tribal governments in developing the capacity to receive assistance under this section through education1 training1 information sharing1 and collaboration to participate in the grant program under this section4 7d7 ,priority ,the ,under ,secretary shall prioritize assistance under subsection 7a7 for projects that-- 7#a7 are based on the best available science with respect to methods to reduce threats to marine mammals2 7#b7 collect data on the reduction of such threats and the effects of such methods2 7#c7 assist ports that pose a higher relative threat to marine mammals listed as threatened or endangered under the ,endangered ,species ,act of #aigc 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #aeca et seq472 7#d7 are in close proximity to areas in which threatened or endangered cetaceans are known to experience other stressors2 or 7#e7 allow eligible entities to conduct risk assessments and to track progress toward threat reduction4 7e7 ,outreach ,the ,under ,secretary1 in coordination with the ,secretary1 the ,administrator of the ,maritime ,administration1 and the ,director of the ,united ,states ,fish and ,wildlife ,service1 as appropriate1 shall conduct coordinated outreach to ports to provide information with respect to-- 7#a7 how to apply for assistance under subsection 7a72 7#b7 the benefits of such assistance2 and 7#c7 facilitation of best practices and lessons1 including the best practices and lessons learned from activities carried out using such assistance4 7f7 ,report required ,not less frequently than annually1 the ,under ,secretary shall make available to the public on a publicly accessible internet website of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration a report that includes the following information3 7#a7 ,the name and location of each entity to which assistance was awarded under subsection 7a7 during the year preceding submission of the report4 7#b7 ,the amount of each such award4 7#c7 ,a description of the activities carried out with each such award4 7#d7 ,an estimate of the likely impact of such activities on the reduction of threats to marine mammals4 7g7 ,authorization of appropriations 7#a7 ,in general ,there is authorized to be appropriated to the ,under ,secretary to carry out this section #aj1jjj1jjj for each of fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbh4 7#b7 ,availability ,amounts appropriated pursuant to the authorization of appropriations under paragraph 7#a7 shall remain available until expended4 7h7 ,savings clause ,an activity may not be carried out under this section if the ,secretary of ,defense1 in consultation with the ,under ,secretary1 determines that the activity would negatively impact the defense readiness or the national security of the ,united ,states4 #cac4 ,near real-time monitoring and mitigation program for large cetaceans 7a7 ,establishment ,the ,under ,secretary for ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere1 in coordination with the heads of other relevant ,federal agencies1 shall design and deploy a cost-effective1 efficient1 and results-oriented near real-time monitoring and mitigation program for endangered or threatened cetaceans 7referred to in this section as the ,program74 7b7 ,purpose ,the purpose of the ,program shall be to reduce the risk to large cetaceans posed by vessel collisions1 and to minimize other impacts on large cetaceans1 through the use of near real-time location monitoring and location information4 7c7 ,requirements ,the ,program shall-- 7#a7 prioritize species of large cetaceans for which impacts from vessel collisions are of particular concern2 7#b7 prioritize areas where such impacts are of particular concern2 7#c7 be capable of detecting and alerting ocean users and enforcement agencies of the probable location of large cetaceans on an actionable real-time basis1 including through real-time data whenever possible2 7#d7 inform sector-specific mitigation protocols to effectively reduce takes 7as defined in section #baf4c of title #ej1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations1 or successor regulations7 of large cetaceans2 7#e7 integrate technology improvements2 and 7#f7 be informed by technologies1 monitoring methods1 and mitigation protocols developed under the pilot project required by subsection 7d74 7d7 ,pilot project 7#a7 ,establishment ,in carrying out the ,program1 the ,under ,secretary shall first establish a pilot monitoring and mitigation project for ,north ,atlantic right whales 7referred to in this section as the pilot project7 for the purposes of informing the ,program4 7#b7 ,requirements ,in designing and deploying the pilot project1 the ,under ,secretary1 in coordination with the heads of other relevant ,federal agencies1 shall1 using the best available scientific information1 identify and ensure coverage of-- 7,a7 core foraging habitats2 and 7,b7 important feeding1 breeding1 calving1 rearing1 or migratory habitats of ,north ,atlantic right whales that co-occur with areas of high risk of mortality or serious injury of such whales from vessels1 vessel strikes1 or disturbance4 7#c7 ,components ,not later than #c years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,under ,secretary1 in consultation with relevant ,federal agencies and ,tribal governments1 and with input from affected stakeholders1 shall design and deploy a near real-time monitoring system for ,north ,atlantic right whales that-- 7,a7 comprises the best available detection power1 spatial coverage1 and survey effort to detect and localize ,north ,atlantic right whales within core foraging habitats2 7,b7 is capable of detecting ,north ,atlantic right whales1 including visually and acoustically2 7,c7 uses dynamic habitat suitability models to inform the likelihood of ,north ,atlantic right whale occurrence in core foraging habitat at any given time2 7,d7 coordinates with the ,integrated ,ocean ,observing ,system of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration and ,regional ,ocean ,partnerships to leverage monitoring assets2 7,e7 integrates historical data2 7,f7 integrates new near real-time monitoring methods and technologies as such methods and technologies become available2 7,g7 accurately verifies and rapidly communicates detection data to appropriate ocean users2 7,h7 creates standards for contributing1 and allows ocean users to contribute1 data to the monitoring system using comparable near real-time monitoring methods and technologies2 7,i7 communicates the risks of injury to large cetaceans to ocean users in a manner that is most likely to result in informed decision-making regarding the mitigation of those risks2 and 7,j7 minimizes additional stressors to large cetaceans as a result of the information available to ocean users4 7#d7 ,reports 7,a7 ,preliminary report 7i7 ,in general ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,under ,secretary shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,natural ,resources of the ,house of ,representatives1 and make available to the public1 a preliminary report on the pilot project4 7ii7 ,elements ,the report required by clause 7i7 shall include the following3 7,i7 ,a description of the monitoring methods and technology in use or planned for deployment under the pilot project4 7,,ii7 ,an analysis of the efficacy of the methods and technology in use or planned for deployment for detecting ,north ,atlantic right whales4 7,,iii7 ,an assessment of the manner in which the monitoring system designed and deployed under paragraph 7#c7 is directly informing and improving the management1 health1 and survival of ,north ,atlantic right whales4 7,,iv7 ,a prioritized identification of technology or research gaps4 7,v7 ,a plan to communicate the risks of injury to large cetaceans to ocean users in a manner that is most likely to result in informed decision making regarding the mitigation of such risks4 7,,vi7 ,any other information on the potential benefits and efficacy of the pilot project the ,under ,secretary considers appropriate4 7,b7 ,final report 7i7 ,in general ,not later than #f years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,under ,secretary1 in coordination with the heads of other relevant ,federal agencies1 shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,natural ,resources of the ,house of ,representatives1 and make available to the public1 a final report on the pilot project4 7ii7 ,elements ,the report required by clause 7i7 shall-- 7,i7 address the elements under subparagraph 7,a77ii72 and 7,,ii7 include-- 7aa7 an assessment of the benefits and efficacy of the pilot project2 7bb7 a strategic plan to expand the pilot project to provide near real-time monitoring and mitigation measures-- 7,,aa7 to additional large cetaceans of concern for which such measures would reduce risk of serious injury or death2 and 7,,bb7 in important feeding1 breeding1 calving1 rearing1 or migratory habitats of large cetaceans that co-occur with areas of high risk of mortality or serious injury from vessel strikes or disturbance2 7cc7 a budget and description of funds necessary to carry out such strategic plan2 7dd7 a prioritized plan for acquisition1 deployment1 and maintenance of monitoring technologies2 and 7ee7 the locations or species to which such plan would apply4 7e7 ,mitigation protocols ,the ,under ,secretary1 in consultation with the ,secretary1 the ,secretary of ,defense1 the ,secretary of ,transportation1 and the ,secretary of the ,interior1 and with input from affected stakeholders1 shall develop and deploy mitigation protocols that make use of the monitoring system designed and deployed under subsection 7d77#c7 to direct sector-specific mitigation measures that avoid and significantly reduce risk of serious injury and mortality to ,north ,atlantic right whales4 7f7 ,access to data ,the ,under ,secretary shall provide access to data generated by the monitoring system designed and deployed under subsection 7d77#c7 for purposes of scientific research and evaluation and public awareness and education1 including through the ,right ,whale ,sighting ,advisory ,system of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration and ,whale,map or other successor public internet website portals1 subject to review for national security considerations4 7g7 ,additional authority ,the ,under ,secretary may enter into and perform such contracts1 leases1 grants1 or cooperative agreements as may be necessary to carry out the purposes of this section on such terms as the ,under ,secretary considers appropriate1 consistent with the ,federal ,acquisition ,regulation4 7h7 ,savings clause ,an activity may not be carried out under this section if the ,secretary of ,defense1 in consultation with the ,under ,secretary1 determines that the activity would negatively impact the defense readiness or the national security of the ,united ,states4 7i7 ,authorization of appropriations ,there is authorized to be appropriated to the ,under ,secretary to support development1 deployment1 application1 and ongoing maintenance of the ,program #e1jjj1jjj for each of fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbg4 #cad4 ,pilot program to establish a ,cetacean ,desk for ,puget ,sound region 7a7 ,establishment 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary1 with the concurrence of the ,under ,secretary1 shall establish a pilot program to establish a ,cetacean ,desk1 which shall be-- 7,a7 located and manned within the ,puget ,sound ,vessel ,traffic ,service2 and 7,b7 designed-- 7i7 to improve coordination with the maritime industry to reduce the risk of vessel impacts to large cetaceans1 including impacts from vessel strikes1 disturbances1 and other sources2 and 7ii7 to monitor the presence and location of large cetaceans during the months during which such large cetaceans are present in ,puget ,sound1 the ,strait of ,juan de ,fuca1 and the ,united ,states portion of the ,salish ,sea4 7#b7 ,duration and staffing ,the pilot program required by paragraph 7#a7-- 7,a7 shall-- 7i7 be for a duration of #d years2 and 7ii7 require not more than #a full-time equivalent position1 who shall also contribute to other necessary ,puget ,sound ,vessel ,traffic ,service duties and responsibilities as needed2 and 7,b7 may be supported by other existing ,federal employees1 as appropriate4 7b7 ,engagement with vessel operators 7#a7 ,in general ,under the pilot program required by subsection 7a71 the ,secretary shall require personnel of the ,cetacean ,desk to engage with vessel operators in areas where large cetaceans have been seen or could reasonably be present to ensure compliance with applicable laws1 regulations1 and voluntary guidance1 to reduce the impact of vessel traffic on large cetaceans4 7#b7 ,contents ,in engaging with vessel operators as required by paragraph 7#a71 personnel of the ,cetacean ,desk shall communicate where and when sightings of large cetaceans have occurred4 7c7 ,memorandum of understanding ,the ,secretary and the ,under ,secretary may enter into a memorandum of understanding to facilitate real-time sharing of data relating to large cetaceans between the ,quiet ,sound program of the ,state of ,washington1 the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration1 and the ,puget ,sound ,vessel ,traffic ,service1 and other relevant entities1 as appropriate4 7d7 ,data ,the ,under ,secretary shall leverage existing data collection methods1 the pilot project required by section #cac1 and public data to ensure accurate and timely information on the sighting of large cetaceans4 7e7 ,consultations 7#a7 ,in general ,in carrying out the pilot program required by subsection 7a71 the ,secretary shall consult with ,tribal governments1 the ,state of ,washington1 institutions of higher education1 the maritime industry1 ports in the ,puget ,sound region1 and nongovernmental organizations4 7#b7 ,coordination with ,canada ,when appropriate1 the ,secretary shall coordinate with the ,government of ,canada1 consistent with policies and agreements relating to management of vessel traffic in ,puget ,sound4 7f7 ,puget ,sound ,vessel ,traffic ,service local variance and policy ,the ,secretary1 with the concurrence of the ,under ,secretary and in consultation with the ,captain of the ,port for the ,puget ,sound region-- 7#a7 shall implement local variances1 as authorized by subsection 7c7 of section #gjjja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 to reduce the impact of vessel traffic on large cetaceans2 and 7#b7 may enter into cooperative agreements1 in accordance with subsection 7d7 of that section1 with ,federal1 ,state1 and local officials to reduce the likelihood of vessel interactions with protected large cetaceans1 which may include-- 7,a7 communicating marine mammal protection guidance to vessels2 7,b7 training on requirements imposed by local1 ,state1 ,tribal1 and ,federal laws and regulations and guidelines concerning-- 7i7 vessel buffer zones2 7ii7 vessel speed2 7iii7 seasonal no-go zones for vessels2 7iv7 protected areas1 including areas designated as critical habitat1 as applicable to marine operations2 and 7v7 any other activities to reduce the direct and indirect impact of vessel traffic on large cetaceans2 7,c7 training to understand1 utilize1 and communicate large cetacean location data2 and 7,d7 training to understand and communicate basic large cetacean detection1 identification1 and behavior1 including-- 7i7 cues of the presence of large cetaceans such as spouts1 water disturbances1 breaches1 or presence of prey2 7ii7 important feeding1 breeding1 calving1 and rearing habitats that co-occur with areas of high risk of vessel strikes2 7iii7 seasonal large cetacean migration routes that co-occur with areas of high risk of vessel strikes2 and 7iv7 areas designated as critical habitat for large cetaceans4 7g7 ,report required ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 and every #b years thereafter for the duration of the pilot program under this section1 the ,commandant1 in coordination with the ,under ,secretary and the ,administrator of the ,maritime ,administration1 shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that-- 7#a7 evaluates the functionality1 utility1 reliability1 responsiveness1 and operational status of the ,cetacean ,desk established under the pilot program required by subsection 7a71 including a quantification of reductions in vessel strikes to large cetaceans as a result of the pilot program2 7#b7 assesses the efficacy of communication between the ,cetacean ,desk and the maritime industry and provides recommendations for improvements2 7#c7 evaluates the integration and interoperability of existing data collection methods1 as well as public data1 into the ,cetacean ,desk operations2 7#d7 assesses the efficacy of collaboration and stakeholder engagement with ,tribal governments1 the ,state of ,washington1 institutions of higher education1 the maritime industry1 ports in the ,puget ,sound region1 and nongovernmental organizations2 and 7#e7 evaluates the progress1 performance1 and implementation of guidance and training procedures for ,puget ,sound ,vessel ,traffic ,service personnel1 as required by subsection 7f74 #cae4 ,monitoring ocean soundscapes 7a7 ,in general ,the ,under ,secretary shall maintain and expand an ocean soundscape development program-- 7#a7 to award grants to expand the deployment of ,federal and non-,federal observing and data management systems capable of collecting measurements of underwater sound for purposes of monitoring and analyzing baselines and trends in the underwater soundscape to protect and manage marine life2 7#b7 to continue to develop and apply standardized forms of measurements to assess sounds produced by marine animals1 physical processes1 and anthropogenic activities2 and 7#c7 after coordinating with the ,secretary of ,defense1 to coordinate and make accessible to the public the datasets1 modeling and analysis1 and user-driven products and tools resulting from observations of underwater sound funded through grants awarded under paragraph 7#a74 7b7 ,coordination ,the program described in subsection 7a7 shall-- 7#a7 include the ,ocean ,noise ,reference ,station ,network of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration and the ,national ,park ,service2 7#b7 use and coordinate with the ,integrated ,ocean ,observing ,system2 and 7#c7 coordinate with the ,regional ,ocean ,partnerships and the ,director of the ,united ,states ,fish and ,wildlife ,service1 as appropriate4 7c7 ,priority ,in awarding grants under subsection 7a71 the ,under ,secretary shall consider the geographic diversity of the recipients of such grants4 7d7 ,savings clause ,an activity may not be carried out under this section if the ,secretary of ,defense1 in consultation with the ,under ,secretary1 determines that the activity would negatively impact the defense readiness or the national security of the ,united ,states4 7e7 ,authorization of appropriations ,there is authorized to be appropriated #a1ejj1jjj for each of fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbh to carry out this section4 ,b ,oil spills #cba4 ,improving oil spill preparedness ,the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere shall include in the ,automated ,data ,inquiry for ,oil ,spills database 7or a successor database7 used by ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration oil weathering models new data1 including peer-reviewed data1 on properties of crude and refined oils1 including data on diluted bitumen1 as such data becomes publicly available4 #cbb4 ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria 7a7 ,alaska ,oil ,spill ,planning ,criteria ,program 7#a7 ,in general ,chapter #c of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #cbc4 ,western ,alaska ,oil ,spill ,planning ,criteria ,program 7a7 ,establishment ,there is established within the ,coast ,guard a ,western ,alaska ,oil ,spill ,planning ,criteria ,program 7referred to in this section as the ,program7 to develop and administer the ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria4 7b7 ,program manager 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this section1 the ,commandant shall select a permanent civilian career employee through a competitive search process for a term not less than #e years to serve as the ,western ,alaska ,oil ,spill ,criteria ,program ,manager 7referred to in this section as the ,program ,manager7-- 7,a7 the primary duty of whom shall be to administer the ,program2 and 7,b7 who shall not be subject to frequent or routine reassignment4 7#b7 ,conflicts of interest ,the individual selected to serve as the ,program ,manager shall not have conflicts of interest relating to entities regulated by the ,coast ,guard4 7#c7 ,duties 7,a7 ,development of guidance ,the ,program ,manager shall develop guidance for-- 7i7 approval1 drills1 and testing relating to the ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria2 and 7ii7 gathering input concerning such planning criteria from ,federal agencies1 ,state1 local1 and ,tribal governments1 and relevant industry and nongovernmental entities4 7,b7 ,assessments ,not less frequently than once every #e years1 the ,program ,manager shall-- 7i7 assess whether such existing planning criteria adequately meet the needs of vessels operating in the geographic area2 and 7ii7 identify methods for advancing response capability so as to achieve1 with respect to a vessel1 compliance with national planning criteria4 7,c7 ,onsite verifications ,the ,program ,manager shall address the relatively small number and limited nature of verifications of response capabilities for vessel response plans by increasing1 within the ,seventeenth ,coast ,guard ,district1 the quantity and frequency of onsite verifications of the providers identified in vessel response plans4 7c7 ,training ,the ,commandant shall enhance the knowledge and proficiency of ,coast ,guard personnel with respect to the ,program by-- 7#a7 developing formalized training on the ,program that1 at a minimum-- 7,a7 provides in-depth analysis of-- 7i7 the national planning criteria described in part #aee of title #cc1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or successor regulations72 7ii7 alternative planning criteria2 7iii7 ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria2 7iv7 ,captain of the ,port and ,federal ,on-,scene ,coordinator authorities related to activation of a vessel response plan2 7v7 the responsibilities of vessel owners and operators in preparing a vessel response plan for submission2 and 7vi7 responsibilities of the ,area ,committee1 including risk analysis1 response capability1 and development of alternative planning criteria2 7,b7 explains the approval processes of vessel response plans that involve alternative planning criteria or ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria2 and 7,c7 provides instruction on the processes involved in carrying out the actions described in paragraphs 7#i77;,d7 and 7#i77;,f7 of section #caa7;j7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j771 including instruction on carrying out such actions-- 7i7 in any geographic area in the ,united ,states2 and 7ii7 specifically in the ,seventeenth ,coast ,guard ,district2 and 7#b7 providing such training to all ,coast ,guard personnel involved in the ,program4 7d7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,alternative planning criteria ,the term alternative planning criteria means criteria submitted under section #aee4ajfe or #aee4ejfg of title #cc1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or successor regulations71 for vessel response plans4 7#b7 ,tribal ,the term ,tribal means of or pertaining to an ,indian ,tribe or a ,tribal organization 7as those terms are defined in section #d of the ,indian ,self-,determination and ,education ,assistance ,act 7#be ,u4,s4,c4 #ecjd774 7#c7 ,vessel response plan ,the term vessel response plan means a plan required to be submitted by the owner or operator of a tank vessel or a nontank vessel under regulations issued by the ,president under section #caa7;j77#e7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j77#e774 7#d7 ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria ,the term ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria means the criteria required under paragraph 7#i7 of section #caa7;j7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j774 4 7#b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #c of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #cbc4 ,western ,alaska ,oil ,spill ,planning ,criteria ,program4 4 7b7 ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria 7#a7 ,amendment ,section #caa7;j7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j77 is amended by adding at the end the following3 7#i7 ,alternative planning criteria program 7,a7 ,definitions ,in this paragraph3 7i7 ,alternative planning criteria ,the term alternative planning criteria means criteria submitted under section #aee4ajfe or #aee4ejfg of title #cc1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or successor regulations71 for vessel response plans4 7ii7 ,prince ,william ,sound ,captain of the ,port ,zone ,the term ,prince ,william ,sound ,captain of the ,port ,zone means the area described in section #c4he-ae7;b7 of title #cc1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or successor regulations74 7iii7 ,secretary ,the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of the ,department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating4 7iv7 ,tribal ,the term ,tribal means of or pertaining to an ,indian ,tribe or a ,tribal organization 7as those terms are defined in section #d of the ,indian ,self-,determination and ,education ,assistance ,act 7#be ,u4,s4,c4 #ecjd774 7v7 ,vessel response plan ,the term vessel response plan means a plan required to be submitted by the owner or operator of a tank vessel or a nontank vessel under regulations issued by the ,president under paragraph 7#e74 7vi7 ,western ,alaska ,captain of the ,port ,zone ,the term ,western ,alaska ,captain of the ,port ,zone means the area described in section #c4he-ae7;a7 of title #cc1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7as in effect on the date of enactment of this paragraph74 7,b7 ,requirement ,except as provided in subparagraph 7,i71 for any part of the area of responsibility of the ,western ,alaska ,captain of the ,port ,zone or the ,prince ,william ,sound ,captain of the ,port ,zone in which the ,secretary has determined that the national planning criteria established pursuant to this subsection are inappropriate for a vessel operating in that area1 a response plan required under paragraph 7#e7 with respect to a discharge of oil for such a vessel shall comply with the planning criteria established under subparagraph 7,d77i74 7,c7 ,relation to national planning criteria ,the planning criteria established under subparagraph 7,d77i7 shall1 with respect to a discharge of oil from a vessel described in subparagraph 7,b71 apply in lieu of any alternative planning criteria accepted for vessels operating in that area prior to the date on which the planning criteria under subparagraph 7,d77i7 are established4 7,d7 ,establishment of planning criteria ,the ,president1 acting through the ,commandant in consultation with the ,western ,alaska ,oil ,spill ,criteria ,program ,manager established under section #cbc of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 shall establish-- 7i7 ,alaska oil spill planning criteria for a worst case discharge of oil1 and a substantial threat of such a discharge1 within any part of the area of responsibility of the ,western ,alaska ,captain of the ,port ,zone or ,prince ,william ,sound ,captain of the ,port ,zone in which the ,secretary has determined that the national planning criteria established pursuant to this subsection are inappropriate for a vessel operating in that area2 and 7ii7 standardized submission1 review1 approval1 and compliance verification processes for the planning criteria established under clause 7i71 including the quantity and frequency of drills and on-site verifications of vessel response plans accepted pursuant to those planning criteria4 7,e7 ,inclusions 7i7 ,in general ,the ,western ,alaska oil spill planning criteria established under subparagraph 7,d77i7 shall include planning criteria for the following3 7,i7 ,mechanical oil spill response resources that are required to be located within that area4 7,,ii7 ,response times for mobilization of oil spill response resources and arrival on the scene of a worst case discharge of oil1 or substantial threat of such a discharge1 occurring within that area4 7,,iii7 ,pre-identified vessels for oil spill response that are capable of operating in the ocean environment4 7,,iv7 ,ensuring the availability of at least #a oil spill removal organization that is classified by the ,coast ,guard and that-- 7aa7 is capable of responding in all operating environments in that area2 7bb7 controls oil spill response resources of dedicated and nondedicated resources within that area1 through ownership1 contracts1 agreements1 or other means approved by the ,president1 sufficient-- 7,,aa7 to mobilize and sustain a response to a worst case discharge of oil2 and 7,,bb7 to contain1 recover1 and temporarily store discharged oil2 7cc7 has pre-positioned oil spill response resources in strategic locations throughout that area in a manner that ensures the ability to support response personnel1 marine operations1 air cargo1 or other related logistics infrastructure2 7dd7 has temporary storage capability using both dedicated and non-dedicated assets located within that area2 7ee7 has non-mechanical oil spill response resources1 to be available under contracts1 agreements1 or other means approved by the ,president1 capable of responding to a discharge of persistent oil and a discharge of nonpersistent oil1 whether the discharged oil was carried by a vessel as fuel or cargo2 and 7ff7 considers availability of wildlife response resources for primary1 secondary1 and tertiary responses to support carcass collection1 sampling1 deterrence1 rescue1 and rehabilitation of birds1 sea turtles1 marine mammals1 fishery resources1 and other wildlife4 7,v7 ,with respect to tank barges carrying nonpersistent oil in bulk as cargo1 oil spill response resources that are required to be carried on board4 7,,vi7 ,specifying a minimum length of time that approval of a response plan under this paragraph is valid4 7,,vii7 ,managing wildlife protection and rehabilitation1 including identified wildlife protection and rehabilitation resources in that area4 7ii7 ,additional considerations ,the ,commandant may consider criteria regarding-- 7,i7 vessel routing measures consistent with international routing measure deviation protocols2 and 7,,ii7 maintenance of real-time continuous vessel tracking1 monitoring1 and engagement protocols with the ability to detect and address vessel operation anomalies4 7,f7 ,requirement for approval ,the ,president may approve a response plan for a vessel under this paragraph only if the owner or operator of the vessel demonstrates the availability of the oil spill response resources required to be included in the response plan under the planning criteria established under subparagraph 7,d77i74 7,g7 ,periodic audits ,the ,secretary shall conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance of vessel response plans and oil spill removal organizations within the ,western ,alaska ,captain of the ,port ,zone and the ,prince ,william ,sound ,captain of the ,port ,zone with the planning criteria under subparagraph 7,d77i74 7,h7 ,review of determination ,not less frequently than once every #e years1 the ,secretary shall review each determination of the ,secretary under subparagraph 7,b7 that the national planning criteria are inappropriate for a vessel operating in the area of responsibility of the ,western ,alaska ,captain of the ,port ,zone and the ,prince ,william ,sound ,captain of the ,port ,zone4 7,i7 ,savings provisions ,nothing in this paragraph affects-- 7i7 the requirements under this subsection applicable to vessel response plans for vessels operating within the area of responsibility of the ,western ,alaska ,captain of the ,port ,zone2 7ii7 the requirements under this subsection applicable to vessel response plans for vessels operating within the area of responsibility of the ,prince ,william ,sound ,captain of the ,port ,zone under section #ejje of the ,oil ,pollution ,act of #aiij 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #bgce72 or 7iii7 the authority of a ,federal ,on-,scene ,coordinator to use any available resources when responding to an oil spill4 4 7#b7 ,establishment of ,alaska oil spill planning criteria 7,a7 ,deadline ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,president shall establish the planning criteria required to be established under paragraph 7#i77;,d77i7 of section #caa7;j7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j774 7,b7 ,consultation ,in establishing the planning criteria described in subparagraph 7,b71 the ,president shall consult with the ,federal1 ,state1 local1 and ,tribal agencies1 and the owners and operators1 that would be subject to those planning criteria1 oil spill removal organizations1 ,alaska ,native organizations1 and environmental nongovernmental organizations located within the ,state of ,alaska4 7,c7 ,government-to-government consultation ,the ,secretary shall conduct government-to-government consultation with federally recognized ,indian ,tribes1 as requested and appropriate for activities authorized by this section4 7,d7 ,congressional report ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall submit to ,congress a report describing the status of implementation of paragraph 7#i7 of section #caa7;j7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j774 #cbc4 ,accident and incident notification relating to pipelines 7a7 ,repeal ,subsection 7c7 of section #i of the ,pipeline ,safety1 ,regulatory ,certainty1 and ,job ,creation ,act of #bjaa 7#di ,u4,s4,c4 #fjaag note2 ,public ,law #aab-ij7 is repealed4 7b7 ,application ,section #i of the ,pipeline ,safety1 ,regulatory ,certainty1 and ,job ,creation ,act of #bjaa 7#di ,u4,s4,c4 #fjaag note2 ,public ,law #aab-ij7 shall be applied and administered as if the subsection repealed by subsection 7a7 had never been enacted4 #cbd4 ,coast ,guard claims processing costs ,section #ajab7;a77#d7 of the ,oil ,pollution ,act of #aiij 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #bgab7;a77#d77 is amended by striking damages2 and inserting damages1 including1 in the case of a spill of national significance that results in extraordinary ,coast ,guard claims processing activities1 the administrative and personnel costs of the ,coast ,guard to process those claims 7including the costs of commercial claims processing1 expert services1 training1 and technical services71 subject to the condition that the ,coast ,guard shall submit to ,congress a report describing the spill of national significance not later than #cj days after the date on which the ,coast ,guard determines it necessary to process those claims24 #cbe4 ,calculation of interest on debt owed to the national pollution fund ,section #ajje7;b77#d7 of the ,oil ,pollution ,act of #aiij 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #bgje7;b77#d77 is amended-- 7#a7 by striking ,the interest paid and inserting the following3 7,a7 ,in general ,the interest paid for claims1 other than ,federal ,government cost recovery claims1 2 and 7#b7 by adding at the end the following3 7,b7 ,federal cost recovery claims ,the interest paid for ,federal ,government cost recovery claims under this section shall be calculated in accordance with section #cgag of title #ca1 ,united ,states ,code4 4 #cbf4 ,per-incident limitation ,subparagraph 7,a7 of section #ieji7;c77#b7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf is amended-- 7#a7 in clause 7i71 by striking #a1jjj1jjj1jjj and inserting #a1ejj1jjj1jjj2 7#b7 in clause 7ii71 by striking #ejj1jjj1jjj and inserting #gej1jjj1jjj2 and 7#c7 in the heading1 by striking #a1jjj1jjj1jjj and inserting #a1ejj1jjj1jjj4 #cbg4 ,access to the ,oil ,spill ,liability ,trust ,fund ,section #fjjb of the ,oil ,pollution ,act of #aiij 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #bgeb7 is amended by striking subsection 7b7 and inserting the following3 7b7 ,exceptions 7#a7 ,in general ,subsection 7a7 shall not apply to-- 7,a7 section #ajjf7;f71 #ajab7;a77#d71 or #ejjf2 or 7,b7 an amount1 which may not exceed #ej1jjj1jjj in any fiscal year1 made available by the ,president from the ,fund-- 7i7 to carry out section #caa7;c7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;c772 and 7ii7 to initiate the assessment of natural resources damages required under section #ajjf4 7#b7 ,fund advances 7,a7 ,in general ,to the extent that the amount described in subparagraph 7,b7 of paragraph 7#a7 is not adequate to carry out the activities described in that subparagraph1 the ,coast ,guard may obtain #a or more advances from the ,fund as may be necessary1 up to a maximum of #ajj1jjj1jjj for each advance1 with the total amount of advances not to exceed the amounts available under section #ieji7;c77#b7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf4 7,b7 ,notification to ,congress ,not later than #cj days after the date on which the ,coast ,guard obtains an advance under subparagraph 7,a71 the ,coast ,guard shall notify ,congress of-- 7i7 the amount advanced2 and 7ii7 the facts and circumstances that necessitated the advance4 7,c7 ,repayment ,amounts advanced under this paragraph shall be repaid to the ,fund when1 and to the extent that1 removal costs are recovered by the ,coast ,guard from responsible parties for the discharge or substantial threat of discharge4 7#c7 ,availability ,amounts to which this subsection applies shall remain available until expended4 4 #cbh4 ,cost-reimbursable agreements ,section #ajab of the ,oil ,pollution ,act of #aiij 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #bgab7 is amended-- 7#a7 in subsection 7a77#a77;,b71 by striking by a ,governor or designated ,state official and inserting by a ,state1 a political subdivision of a ,state1 or an ,indian tribe1 pursuant to a cost-reimbursable agreement2 7#b7 by striking subsections 7d7 and 7e7 and inserting the following3 7d7 ,cost-,reimbursable agreement 7#a7 ,in general ,in carrying out section #caa7;c7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;c771 the ,president may enter into cost-reimbursable agreements with a ,state1 a political subdivision of a ,state1 or an ,indian tribe to obligate the ,fund for the payment of removal costs consistent with the ,national ,contingency ,plan4 7#b7 ,inapplicability ,neither section #aece of title #ca1 ,united ,states ,code1 nor chapter #fc of that title shall apply to a cost-reimbursable agreement entered into under this subsection4 2 and 7#c7 by redesignating subsections 7f71 7h71 7i71 7j71 7k71 and 7l7 as subsections 7e71 7f71 7g71 7h71 7i71 and 7j71 respectively4 #cbi4 ,oil spill response review 7a7 ,in general ,subject to the availability of appropriations1 the ,commandant shall develop and carry out a program-- 7#a7 to increase collection and improve the quality of incident data on oil spill location and response capability by periodically evaluating the data1 documentation1 and analysis of-- 7,a7 ,coast ,guard-approved vessel response plans1 including vessel response plan audits and assessments2 7,b7 oil spill response drills conducted under section #caa7;j77#g7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j77#g77 that occur within the ,marine ,transportation ,system2 and 7,c7 responses to oil spill incidents that require mobilization of contracted response resources2 7#b7 to update1 not less frequently than annually1 information contained in the ,coast ,guard ,response ,resource ,inventory and other ,coast ,guard tools used to document the availability and status of oil spill response equipment1 so as to ensure that such information remains current2 and 7#c7 subject to section #eeb of title #e1 ,united ,states ,code 7commonly known as the ,freedom of ,information ,act71 to make data collected under paragraph 7#a7 available to the public4 7b7 ,policy ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall issue a policy-- 7#a7 to establish processes to maintain the program under subsection 7a7 and support ,coast ,guard oil spill prevention and response activities1 including by incorporating oil spill incident data from after-action oil spill reports and data ascertained from vessel response plan exercises and audits into-- 7,a7 review and approval process standards and metrics2 7,b7 ,alternative ,planning ,criteria 7,,apc7 review processes2 7,c7 ,area ,contingency ,plan 7,,acp7 development2 and 7,d7 risk assessments developed under section #gjjja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 including lessons learned from reportable marine casualties2 7#b7 to standardize and develop tools1 training1 and other relevant guidance that may be shared with vessel owners and operators to assist with accurately calculating and measuring the performance and viability of proposed alternatives to national planning criteria requirements and ,area ,contingency ,plans under the jurisdiction of the ,coast ,guard2 7#c7 to improve training of ,coast ,guard personnel to ensure continuity of planning activities under this section1 including by identifying ways in which civilian staffing may improve the continuity of operations2 and 7#d7 to increase ,federal ,government engagement with ,state1 local1 and ,tribal governments and stakeholders so as to strengthen coordination and efficiency of oil spill responses4 7c7 ,periodic updates ,not less frequently than every #e years1 the ,commandant shall update the processes established under subsection 7b77#a7 to incorporate relevant analyses of-- 7#a7 incident data on oil spill location and response quality2 7#b7 oil spill risk assessments2 7#c7 oil spill response effectiveness and the affects of such response on the environment2 7#d7 oil spill response drills conducted under section #caa7;j77#g7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;j77#g772 7#e7 marine casualties reported to the ,coast ,guard2 and 7#f7 near miss incidents documented by a ,vessel ,traffic ,service ,center 7as such terms are defined in sections #gjjja7m7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code74 7d7 ,report 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 and annually thereafter for #e years1 the ,commandant shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on the status of ongoing and planned efforts to improve the effectiveness and oversight of the vessel response program4 7#b7 ,public availability ,the ,commandant shall publish the report required by subparagraph 7,a7 on a publicly accessible internet website of the ,coast ,guard4 #ccj4 ,review and report on limited indemnity provisions in standby oil spill response contracts 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the effects of removing limited indemnity provisions from ,coast ,guard oil spill response contracts entered into by the ,president 7or a delegate7 under section #caa7;c7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;c774 7b7 ,elements ,the report required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,an assessment of the adequacy of contracts described in that subsection in meeting the needs of the ,united ,states to carry out oil spill clean-ups under the ,national ,contingency ,plan 7as defined in section #caa7;a7 of the ,federal ,water ,pollution ,control ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #acba7;a777 during the period beginning in #aiij and ending in #bjad with respect to those contracts that included limited indemnity provisions for oil spill response organizations4 7#b7 ,a review of the costs incurred by the ,coast ,guard1 the ,oil ,spill ,liability ,trust ,fund established by section #ieji7;a7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf1 and the ,federal ,government to cover the indemnity provisions provided to oil spill response organizations during the period described in paragraph 7#a74 7#c7 ,an assessment of the adequacy of contracts described in that subsection in meeting the needs of the ,united ,states to carry out oil spill clean-ups under the ,national ,contingency ,plan 7as so defined7 after limited indemnity provisions for oil spill response organizations were removed from those contracts in #bjad4 7#d7 ,an assessment of the impact that the removal of limited indemnity provisions described in paragraph 7#c7 has had on the ability of oil spill response organizations to enter into contracts described in that subsection4 7#e7 ,an assessment of the ability of the ,oil ,spill ,liability ,trust ,fund established by section #ieji7;a7 of the ,internal ,revenue ,code of #aihf1 to cover limited indemnity provided to a contractor for liabilities and expenses incidental to the containment or removal of oil arising out of the performance of a contract that is substantially identical to the terms contained in subsections 7d77#b7 through 7h7 of section ,h4#d of the contract offered by the ,coast ,guard in the solicitation numbered ,,dtcg#hi-ih-;,a-#fh;,f#iec and dated ,november #ag1 #aiih4 #cca4 ,additional exceptions to regulations for towing vessels 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall review existing ,coast ,guard policies with respect to exceptions to the applicability of subchapter ,m of chapter ,i of title #df1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or successor regulations71 for-- 7#a7 an oil spill response vessel1 or a vessel of opportunity1 while such vessel is-- 7,a7 towing boom for oil spill response2 or 7,b7 participating in an oil response exercise2 and 7#b7 a fishing vessel while that vessel is operating as a vessel of opportunity4 7b7 ,policy ,not later than #ahj days after the conclusion of the review required by subsection 7a71 the ,secretary shall revise or issue any necessary policy to clarify the applicability of subchapter ,m of chapter ,i of title #df1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or successor regulations7 to the vessels described in subsection 7a74 ,such a policy shall ensure safe and effective operation of such vessels4 7c7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,fishing vessel2 oil spill response vessel ,the terms fishing vessel and oil spill response vessel have the meanings given such terms in section #baja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7#b7 ,vessel of opportunity ,the term vessel of opportunity means a vessel engaged in spill response activities that is normally and substantially involved in activities other than spill response and not a vessel carrying oil as a primary cargo4 ,c ,environmental compliance #cda4 ,review of anchorage regulations 7a7 ,regulatory review ,not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall complete a review of existing anchorage regulations or other rules and identify regulations or rules that may need modification in the interest of marine safety1 security1 and environmental concerns1 taking into account undersea pipelines1 cables1 or other infrastructure4 7b7 ,briefing ,upon completion of the review under paragraph 7#a71 but not later than #b years after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall provide a briefing to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives that summarizes the review4 #cdb4 ,study on impacts on shipping and commercial1 ,tribal1 and recreational fisheries from the development of renewable energy on the ,west ,coast 7a7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,covered waters ,the term covered waters means ,federal or ,state waters off of the ,canadian border and out to the furthest extent of the exclusive economic zone4 7#b7 ,exclusive economic zone ,the term exclusive economic zone has the meaning given that term in section #ajg of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7b7 ,study ,not later than #ahj days after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary1 the ,secretary of the ,interior1 and the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere1 shall enter into an agreement with the ,national ,academy of ,sciences under which the ,national ,academy of ,sciences shall carry out a study to-- 7#a7 identify1 document1 and analyze-- 7,a7 historic and current1 as of the date of the study1 ,tribal1 commercial1 and recreational fishing grounds1 as well as areas where fish stocks are likely to shift in the future in all covered waters2 7,b7 usual and accustomed fishing areas in all covered waters2 7,c7 historic1 current1 and potential future shipping lanes1 based on projected growth in shipping traffic in all covered waters2 and 7,d7 key data needed to properly site renewable energy sites on the ,west ,coast2 7#b7 analyze-- 7,a7 methods used to manage fishing1 shipping1 and other maritime activities2 and 7,b7 how those activities could be impacted by the placement of renewable energy infrastructure and the associated construction1 maintenance1 and operation such infrastructure2 and 7#c7 provide recommendations on appropriate areas for renewable energy sites and outline a comprehensive approach to include all impacted coastal communities1 particularly ,tribal governments and fisheries communities1 in the decision-making process4 7c7 ,submission ,not later than #a year after commencing the study under subsection 7b71 the ,secretary shall-- 7#a7 submit the study to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives1 including all recommendations provided under subsection 7b77#c72 and 7#b7 make the study publicly available4 ,d ,environmental issues #cea4 ,modifications to the ,sport ,fish ,restoration and ,boating ,trust ,fund administration 7a7 ,dingell-,johnson ,sport ,fish ,restoration ,act amendments 7#a7 ,available amounts ,section #d7;b77#a77;,b77i7 of the ,dingell-,johnson ,sport ,fish ,restoration ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ggg;c7b77#a77;,b77i77 is amended by striking subclause 7,i7 and inserting the following3 7,i7 the product obtained by multiplying-- 7aa7 #ab1ghf1dcd2 and 7bb7 the change1 relative to the preceding fiscal year1 in the ,consumer ,price ,index for ,all ,urban ,consumers published by the ,department of ,labor2 and 4 7#b7 ,authorized expenses ,section #i7;a7 of the ,dingell-,johnson ,sport ,fish ,restoration ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ggg;h7a77 is amended-- 7,a7 in paragraph 7#g71 by striking full-time2 and 7,b7 in paragraph 7#i71 by striking on a full-time basis4 7b7 ,pittman-,robertson ,wildlife ,restoration ,act amendments 7#a7 ,available amounts ,section #d7;a77#a77;,b77i7 of the ,pittman-,robertson ,wildlife ,restoration ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ffi;c7a77#a77;,b77i77 is amended by striking subclause 7,i7 and inserting the following3 7,i7 the product obtained by multiplying-- 7aa7 #ab1ghf1dcd2 and 7bb7 the change1 relative to the preceding fiscal year1 in the ,consumer ,price ,index for ,all ,urban ,consumers published by the ,department of ,labor2 and 4 7#b7 ,authorized expenses ,section #i7;a7 of the ,pittman-,robertson ,wildlife ,restoration ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ffi;h7a77 is amended-- 7,a7 in paragraph 7#g71 by striking full-time2 and 7,b7 in paragraph 7#i71 by striking on a full-time basis4 #ceb4 ,improvements to ,coast ,guard communication with ,north ,pacific maritime and fishing industry 7a7 ,rescue #ba system in ,alaska 7#a7 ,upgrades ,the ,commandant shall ensure the timely upgrade of the ,rescue #ba system in ,alaska so as to achieve1 not later than ,august #cj1 #bjbc1 #ih percent operational availability of remote fixed facility sites4 7#b7 ,plan to reduce outages 7,a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall develop an operations and maintenance plan for the ,rescue #ba system in ,alaska that anticipates maintenance needs so as to reduce ,rescue #ba system outages to the maximum extent practicable4 7,b7 ,public availability ,the plan required by subparagraph 7,a7 shall be made available to the public on a publicly accessible internet website4 7#c7 ,report required ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report that-- 7,a7 contains a plan for the ,coast ,guard to notify mariners of radio outages for towers owned and operated by the ,seventeenth ,coast ,guard ,district2 7,b7 addresses in such plan how the ,seventeenth ,coast ,guard will-- 7i7 disseminate updates regarding outages on social media not less frequently than every #dh hours2 7ii7 provide updates on a publicly accessible website not less frequently than every #dh hours2 7iii7 develop methods for notifying mariners in areas in which cellular connectivity does not exist2 and 7iv7 develop and advertise a web-based communications update hub on ,,am_/,,fm radio for mariners2 and 7,c7 identifies technology gaps necessary to implement the plan and provides a budgetary assessment necessary to implement the plan4 7#d7 ,contingency plan 7,a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall1 in collaboration with relevant ,federal and ,state entities 7including the ,north ,pacific ,fishery ,management ,council1 the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,weather ,service1 the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,fisheries ,service1 agencies of the ,state of ,alaska1 local radio stations1 and stakeholders71 establish a contingency plan to ensure that notifications of an outage of the ,rescue #ba system in ,alaska are broadly disseminated in advance of such outage4 7,b7 ,elements ,the plan required by subparagraph 7,a7 shall require ,coast ,guard-- 7i7 to disseminate updates regarding outages on social media not less frequently than every #dh hours during an outage2 7ii7 to provide updates on a publicly accessible website not less frequently than every #dh hours during an outage2 7iii7 to notify mariners in areas in which cellular connectivity does not exist2 7iv7 to develop and advertise a web-based communications update hub on ,,am_/,,fm radio for mariners2 and 7v7 to identify technology gaps necessary to implement the plan and provides a budgetary assessment necessary to implement the plan4 7b7 ,improvements to communication with the fishing industry and related stakeholders 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant1 in coordination with the ,national ,commercial ,fishing ,safety ,advisory ,committee established by section #aeajb of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 shall develop a publicly accessible internet website that contains all information related to fishing industry activities1 including vessel safety1 inspections1 enforcement1 hazards1 training1 regulations 7including proposed regulations71 ,rescue #ba system outages and similar outages1 and any other fishing-related activities4 7#b7 ,automatic communications ,the ,commandant shall provide methods for regular and automatic email communications with stakeholders who elect1 through the internet website developed under paragraph 7#a71 to receive such communications4 7c7 ,advance notification of military or other exercises ,in consultation with the ,secretary of ,defense1 the ,secretary of ,state1 and commercial fishing industry participants1 the ,commandant shall develop and publish on a publicly available internet website a plan for notifying ,united ,states mariners and the operators of ,united ,states fishing vessels in advance of-- 7#a7 military exercises in the exclusive economic zone of the ,united ,states 7as defined in section #c of the ,magnuson-,stevens ,fishery ,conservation and ,management ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahjb772 or 7#b7 other military activities that will impact recreational or commercial activities4 #cec4 ,fishing safety training grants program ,section #dejb7;i77#d7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking #bjah through #bjba and inserting #bjbc through #bjbe4 #ced4 ,load lines 7a7 ,definition of covered fishing vessel ,in this section1 the term covered fishing vessel means a vessel that operates exclusively in one1 or both1 of the ,thirteenth and ,seventeenth ,coast ,guard ,districts and that-- 7#a7 was constructed1 under construction1 or under contract to be constructed as a fish tender vessel before ,january #a1 #aihj2 7#b7 was converted for use as a fish tender vessel before ,january #a1 #bjbb1 and-- 7,a7 the vessel has a current stability letter issued in accordance with regulations prescribed under chapter #ea of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code2 and 7,b7 the hull and internal structure of the vessel has been verified as suitable for intended service as examined by a marine surveyor of an organization accepted by the ,secretary #b times in the #e years preceding the date of the determination under this subsection1 with no interval of more than #c years between such examinations2 or 7#c7 operates part-time as a fish tender vessel for a period of less than #ahj days4 7b7 ,application to certain vessels ,during the period beginning on the date of enactment of this ,act and ending on the date that is #c years after the date on which the report required under subsection 7c7 is submitted1 the load line requirements of chapter #ea of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 shall not apply to covered fishing vessels4 7c7 ,,gao report 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ab months after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives-- 7,a7 a report on the safety and seaworthiness of vessels referenced in section #eajb7;b77#e7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code2 and 7,b7 recommendations for exempting certain vessels from the load line requirements under chapter #ea of title #df of such ,code4 7#b7 ,elements ,the report required under paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an assessment of stability requirements of vessels referenced in section #eajb7;b77#e7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7,b7 ,an analysis of vessel casualties1 mishaps1 or other safety information relevant to load line requirements when a vessel is operating part-time as a fish tender vessel4 7,c7 ,an assessment of any other safety information as the ,comptroller ,general determines appropriate4 7,d7 ,a list of all vessels that1 as of the date of the report-- 7i7 are covered under section #eajb7;b77#e7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code2 7ii7 are acting as part-time fish tender vessels2 and 7iii7 are subject to any captain of the port zone subject to the oversight of the ,commandant4 7#c7 ,consultation ,in preparing the report required under paragraph 7#a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall consider consultation with1 at a minimum1 the maritime industry1 including-- 7,a7 relevant ,federal1 ,state1 and tribal maritime associations and groups2 and 7,b7 relevant federally funded research institutions1 nongovernmental organizations1 and academia4 7d7 ,applicability ,nothing in this section shall limit any authority available1 as of the date of enactment of this ,act1 to the captain of a port with respect to safety measures or any other authority as necessary for the safety of covered fishing vessels4 ,e ,illegal fishing and forced labor prevention #cfa4 ,definitions ,in this subtitle3 7#a7 ,forced labor ,the term forced labor means any labor or service provided for or obtained by any means described in section #aehi7;a7 of title #ah1 ,united ,states ,code4 7#b7 ,human trafficking ,the term human trafficking has the meaning given the term severe forms of trafficking in persons in section #ajc of the ,trafficking ,victims ,protection ,act of #bjjj 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #gajb74 7#c7 ,illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing ,the term illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing has the meaning given such term in the implementing regulations or any subsequent regulations issued pursuant to section #fji7;e7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;j7e774 7#d7 ,oppressive child labor ,the term oppressive child labor has the meaning given such term in section #c of the ,fair ,labor ,standards ,act of #aich 7#bi ,u4,s4,c4 #bjc74 7#e7 ,seafood ,the term seafood means all marine animal and plant life meant for consumption as food other than marine mammals and birds1 including fish1 shellfish1 shellfish products1 and processed fish4 7#f7 ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program ,the term ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program means the ,seafood ,traceability ,program established in subpart ,q of part #cjj of title #ej1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or any successor regulation74 7#g7 ,secretary ,the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of ,commerce1 acting through the ,administrator of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration4 #a ,combating ,human ,trafficking ,through ,seafood ,import ,monitoring #cfb4 ,enhancement of ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program ,automated ,commercial ,environment ,message ,set ,the ,secretary1 in coordination with the ,commissioner of ,u4,s4 ,customs and ,border ,protection1 shall1 not later than #f months after the date of enactment of this ,act1 develop a strategy to improve the quality and verifiability of already collected ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program ,message ,set data elements in the ,automated ,commercial ,environment system4 ,such strategy shall prioritize the use of enumerated data types1 such as checkboxes1 dropdown menus1 or radio buttons1 and any additional elements the ,administrator of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration finds appropriate4 #cfc4 ,data sharing and aggregation 7a7 ,interagency ,working ,group on ,illegal1 ,unreported1 or ,unregulated ,fishing ,section #ceea7;c7 of the ,maritime ,,safe ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #hjca7;c77 is amended-- 7#a7 by redesignating paragraphs 7#d7 through 7#ac7 as paragraphs 7#e7 through 7#ad71 respectively2 and 7#b7 by inserting after paragraph 7#c7 the following3 7#d7 maximizing the utility of the import data collected by the members of the ,working ,group by harmonizing data standards and entry fields2 4 7b7 ,prohibition on aggregated catch data for certain species ,beginning not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 for the purposes of compliance with respect to ,northern red snapper under the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program1 the ,secretary may not allow an aggregated harvest report of such species1 regardless of vessel size4 #cfd4 ,import audits 7a7 ,audit procedures ,the ,secretary shall1 not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 implement procedures to audit information and supporting records of sufficient numbers of imports of seafood and seafood products subject to the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program to support statistically robust conclusions that the samples audited are representative of all seafood imports with respect to a given year4 7b7 ,expansion of marine forensics laboratory ,the ,secretary shall1 not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 begin the process of expanding the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration's ,marine ,forensics ,laboratory1 including by establishing sufficient capacity for the development and deployment of rapid1 and follow-up1 analysis of field-based tests focused on identifying ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program species1 and prioritizing such species at high risk of illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing and seafood fraud4 7c7 ,annual revision ,in developing the procedures required in subsection 7a71 the ,secretary shall use predictive analytics to inform whether to revise such procedures to prioritize for audit those imports originating from nations-- 7#a7 identified pursuant to section #fji7;a7 or #faj7;a7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;j7a7 or #ahbfk7a77 that have not yet received a subsequent positive certification pursuant to section #fji7;d7 or #faj7;c7 of such ,act1 respectively2 7#b7 identified by an appropriate regional fishery management organization as being the flag state or landing location of vessels identified by other nations or regional fisheries management organizations as engaging in illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing2 7#c7 identified as having human trafficking or forced labor in any part of the seafood supply chain1 including on vessels flagged in such nation1 and including feed for cultured production1 in the most recent ,trafficking in ,persons ,report issued by the ,department of ,state in accordance with the ,trafficking ,victims ,protection ,act of #bjjj 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #gaja et seq472 7#d7 identified as producing goods that contain seafood using forced labor or oppressive child labor in the most recent ,list of ,goods ,produced by ,child ,labor or ,forced ,labor in accordance with the ,trafficking ,victims ,protection ,act 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #gaja et seq472 and 7#e7 identified as at risk for human trafficking1 including forced labor1 in their seafood catching and processing industries by the report required under section #cefc of the ,maritime ,,safe ,act 7,public ,law #aaf-ib74 #cfe4 ,availability of fisheries information ,section #djb7;b77#a7 of the ,magnuson-,stevens ,fishery ,conservation and ,management ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahha;a7b77#a77 is amended-- 7#a7 in subparagraph 7,g71 by striking or after the semicolon2 7#b7 in subparagraph 7,h71 by striking the period and inserting 2 or2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following3 7,i7 to ,federal agencies1 to the extent necessary and appropriate1 to administer ,federal programs established to combat illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing 7as defined in section #cfa of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb7 or forced labor 7as defined in section #cfa of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb74 4 #cff4 ,authority to hold fish products ,section #caa7;b77#a7 of the ,magnuson-,stevens ,fishery ,conservation and ,management ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahfa7;b77#a77 is amended-- 7#a7 in subparagraph 7,b71 by striking and after the semicolon2 7#b7 in subparagraph 7,c71 by striking the period and inserting 2 and2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following a new subparagraph3 7,d7 detain1 for a period of not more than #ad days1 any shipment of fish or fish product imported into1 landed on1 introduced into1 exported from1 or transported within the jurisdiction of the ,united ,states1 or1 if such fish or fish product is determined to be perishable1 sell and retain the proceeds therefrom for a period of not more than #ba days4 4 #cfg4 ,report on ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program 7a7 ,report to ,congress and public availability of reports ,the ,secretary shall1 not later than #abj days after the end of each fiscal year1 submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,natural ,resources of the ,house of ,representatives a report that summarizes the ,national ,marine ,fisheries ,service's efforts to prevent the importation of seafood harvested through illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing1 particularly with respect to seafood harvested1 produced1 processed1 or manufactured by forced labor4 ,each such report shall be made publicly available on the website of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration4 7b7 ,contents ,each report submitted under subsection 7a7 shall include-- 7#a7 the volume and value of seafood species subject to the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program1 reported by #aj-;digit ,harmonized ,tariff ,schedule of the ,united ,states codes1 imported during the previous fiscal year2 7#b7 the enforcement activities and priorities of the ,national ,marine ,fisheries ,service with respect to implementing the requirements under the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program2 7#c7 the percentage of import shipments subject to the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program selected for inspection or the information or records supporting entry selected for audit1 as described in section #cjj4cbd7;d7 of title #ej1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations2 7#d7 the number and types of instances of noncompliance with the requirements of the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program2 7#e7 the number and types of instances of violations of ,state or ,federal law discovered through the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program2 7#f7 the seafood species with respect to which violations described in paragraphs 7#d7 and 7#e7 were most prevalent2 7#g7 the location of catch or harvest with respect to which violations described in paragraphs 7#d7 and 7#e7 were most prevalent2 7#h7 the additional tools1 such as high performance computing and associated costs1 that the ,secretary needs to improve the efficacy of the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program2 and 7#i7 such other information as the ,secretary considers appropriate with respect to monitoring and enforcing compliance with the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program4 #cfh4 ,authorization of appropriations ,there is authorized to be appropriated to the ,commissioner of ,u4,s4 ,customs and ,border ,protection to carry out enforcement actions pursuant to section #cjg of the ,tariff ,act of #aicj 7#ai ,u4,s4,c4 #acjg7 #bj1jjj1jjj for each of fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbg4 #b ,strengthening international fisheries management to combat human trafficking #cgj4 ,denial of port privileges ,section #aja7;a77#b7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fisheries ,enforcement ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;a7a77#b77 is amended to read as follows3 7#b7 ,denial of port privileges ,the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security shall1 in accordance with international law-- 7,a7 withhold or revoke the clearance required by section #fjaje of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 for any large-scale driftnet fishing vessel of a nation that receives a negative certification under section #fji7;d7 or #faj7;c7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;j7d7 or #ahbfk7c771 or fishing vessels of a nation that has been listed pursuant to section #fji7;b7 or section #faj7;a7 of such ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;j7b7 or #ahbfk7a77 in #b or more consecutive reports for the same type of fisheries activity1 as described under section #fjg of such ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;h71 until a positive certification has been received2 7,b7 withhold or revoke the clearance required by section #fjaje of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 for fishing vessels of a nation that has been listed pursuant to section #fji7;a7 or #faj7;a7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;j7a7 or #ahbfk7a77 in #b or more consecutive reports as described under section #fjg of such ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;h72 and 7,c7 deny entry of that vessel to any place in the ,united ,states and to the navigable waters of the ,united ,states1 except for the purposes of inspecting such vessel1 conducting an investigation1 or taking other appropriate enforcement action4 4 #cga4 ,identification and certification criteria 7a7 ,denial of port privileges ,section #fji7;a7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;j7a77 is amended-- 7#a7 by striking paragraph 7#b7 and inserting the following3 7#b7 ,for actions of a nation ,the ,secretary shall identify1 and list in such report1 a nation engaging in or endorsing illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing4 ,in determining which nations to list in such report1 the ,secretary shall consider the following3 7,a7 ,any nation that is violating1 or has violated at any point during the #c years preceding the date of the determination1 conservation and management measures1 including catch and other data reporting obligations and requirements1 required under an international fishery management agreement to which the ,united ,states is a party4 7,b7 ,any nation that is failing1 or has failed in the #c-year period preceding the date of the determination1 to effectively address or regulate illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing within its fleets in any areas where its vessels are fishing4 7,c7 ,any nation that fails to discharge duties incumbent upon it under international law or practice as a flag1 port1 or coastal state to take action to prevent1 deter1 and eliminate illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing4 7,d7 ,any nation that has been identified as producing for export to the ,united ,states seafood-related goods through forced labor or oppressive child labor 7as those terms are defined in section #cfa of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb7 in the most recent ,list of ,goods ,produced by ,child ,labor or ,forced ,labor in accordance with the ,trafficking ,victims ,protection ,act of #bjjj 7#bb ,u4,s4,c4 #gaja et seq474 2 and 7#b7 by adding at the end the following3 7#d7 ,timing ,the ,secretary shall make an identification under paragraph 7#a7 or 7#b7 at any time that the ,secretary has sufficient information to make such identification4 4 7b7 ,illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated certification determination ,section #fji of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;j7 is amended-- 7#a7 in subsection 7d71 by striking paragraph 7#c7 and inserting the following3 7#c7 ,effect of certification determination 7,a7 ,effect of negative certification ,the provisions of subsection 7a7 and paragraphs 7#c7 and 7#d7 of subsection 7b7 of section #aja of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fisheries ,enforcement ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;a7a7 and 7b77#c7 and 7#d77 shall apply to any nation that1 after being identified and notified under subsection 7b7 has failed to take the appropriate corrective actions for which the ,secretary has issued a negative certification under this subsection4 7,b7 ,effect of positive certification ,the provisions of subsection 7a7 and paragraphs 7#c7 and 7#d7 of subsection 7b7 of section #aja of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fisheries ,enforcement ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbf;a7a7 and 7b77#c7 and 7#d77 shall not apply to any nation identified under subsection 7a7 for which the ,secretary has issued a positive certification under this subsection4 2 7#b7 by redesignating subsections 7e7 and 7f7 as subsections 7f7 and 7g71 respectively2 and 7#c7 by inserting after subsection 7d7 the following3 7e7 ,recordkeeping requirements ,the ,secretary shall ensure that seafood or seafood products authorized for entry under this section are imported consistent with the reporting and the recordkeeping requirements of the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program described in part #cjj4cbd7;b7 of title #ej1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or any successor regulation74 4 #cgb4 ,equivalent conservation measures 7a7 ,identification ,section #faj7;a7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbfk7a77 is amended to read as follows3 7a7 ,identification 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary shall identify and list in the report under section #fjg-- 7,a7 a nation if-- 7i7 any fishing vessel of that nation is engaged1 or has been engaged during the #c years preceding the date of the determination1 in fishing activities or practices on the high seas or within the exclusive economic zone of any nation1 that have resulted in bycatch of a protected living marine resource2 and 7ii7 the vessel's flag state has not adopted1 implemented1 and enforced a regulatory program governing such fishing designed to end or reduce such bycatch that is comparable in effectiveness to the regulatory program of the ,united ,states1 taking into account differing conditions2 and 7,b7 a nation if-- 7i7 any fishing vessel of that nation is engaged1 or has engaged during the #c years preceding the date of the determination1 in fishing activities on the high seas or within the exclusive economic zone of another nation that target or incidentally catch sharks2 and 7ii7 the vessel's flag state has not adopted1 implemented1 and enforced a regulatory program to provide for the conservation of sharks1 including measures to prohibit removal of any of the fins of a shark1 including the tail1 before landing the shark in port1 that is comparable to that of the ,united ,states4 7#b7 ,timing ,the ,secretary shall make an identification under paragraph 7#a7 at any time that the ,secretary has sufficient information to make such identification4 4 7b7 ,consultation and negotiation ,section #faj7;b7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbfk7b77 is amended to read as follows3 7b7 ,consultation and negotiation ,the ,secretary of ,state1 acting in conjunction with the ,secretary1 shall-- 7#a7 notify1 as soon as practicable1 the ,president and nations that are engaged in1 or that have any fishing vessels engaged in1 fishing activities or practices described in subsection 7a71 about the provisions of this ,act2 7#b7 initiate discussions as soon as practicable with all foreign nations that are engaged in1 or a fishing vessel of which has engaged in1 fishing activities described in subsection 7a71 for the purpose of entering into bilateral and multilateral treaties with such nations to protect such species and to address any underlying failings or gaps that may have contributed to identification under this ,act2 7#c7 seek agreements calling for international restrictions on fishing activities or practices described in subsection 7a7 through the ,united ,nations1 the ,committee on ,fisheries of the ,food and ,agriculture ,organization of the ,united ,nations1 and appropriate international fishery management bodies2 and 7#d7 initiate the amendment of any existing international treaty for the protection and conservation of such species to which the ,united ,states is a party in order to make such treaty consistent with the purposes and policies of this section4 4 7c7 ,conservation certification procedure ,section #faj7;c7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbfk7c77 is amended-- 7#a7 in paragraph 7#b71 by inserting the public and after comment by2 7#b7 in paragraph 7#d7-- 7,a7 in subparagraph 7,a71 by striking and after the semicolon2 7,b7 in subparagraph 7,b71 by striking the period at the end and inserting 2 and2 and 7,c7 by adding at the end the following3 7,c7 ensure that any such fish or fish products authorized for entry under this section are imported consistent with the reporting and the recordkeeping requirements of the ,seafood ,import ,monitoring ,program established in subpart ,q of part #cjj of title #ej1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or any successor regulation74 2 and 7#c7 in paragraph 7#e71 by striking 7except to the extent that such provisions apply to sport fishing equipment or fish or fish products not caught by the vessels engaged in illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing74 7d7 ,definition of protected living marine resource ,section #faj7;e7 of the ,high ,seas ,driftnet ,fishing ,moratorium ,protection ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbfk7e77 is amended by striking paragraph 7#a7 and inserting the following3 7#a7 except as provided in paragraph 7#b71 means nontarget fish1 sea turtles1 or marine mammals that are protected under ,united ,states law or international agreement1 including-- 7,a7 the ,marine ,mammal ,protection ,act of #aigb 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #acfa et seq472 7,b7 the ,endangered ,species ,act of #aigc 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #aeca et seq472 7,c7 the ,shark ,finning ,prohibition ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahbb note72 and 7,d7 the ,convention on ,international ,trade in ,endangered ,species of ,wild ,fauna and ,flora1 done at ,washington ,march #c1 #aigc 7#bg ,,ust #ajhg2 ,,tias #hbdi72 but 4 #cgc4 ,capacity building in foreign fisheries 7a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary of ,commerce1 in consultation with the heads of other ,federal agencies1 as appropriate1 shall develop and carry out with partner governments and civil society-- 7#a7 multi-year international environmental cooperation agreements and projects2 and 7#b7 multi-year capacity-building projects for implementing measures to address illegal1 unreported1 or unregulated fishing1 fraud1 forced labor1 bycatch1 and other conservation measures4 7b7 ,capacity building ,section #cedc7;d7 of the ,maritime ,,safe ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #hjac7;d77 is amended-- 7#a7 in the matter preceding paragraph 7#a71 by striking as appropriate12 and 7#b7 in paragraph 7#c71 by striking as appropriate and inserting for all priority regions identified by the ,working ,group4 7c7 ,reports ,section #ceec of the ,maritime ,,safe ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #hjcc7 is amended-- 7#a7 in paragraph 7#g71 by striking and after the semicolon2 7#b7 in paragraph 7#h71 by striking the period at the end and inserting 2 and2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following3 7#i7 the status of work with global enforcement partners4 4 #cgd4 ,training of ,united ,states observers ,section #djc7;b7 of the ,magnuson-,stevens ,fishery ,conservation and ,management ,act 7#af ,u4,s4,c4 #ahha;b7b77 is amended-- 7#a7 in paragraph 7#c71 by striking and after the semicolon2 7#b7 by redesignating paragraph 7#d7 as paragraph 7#e72 and 7#c7 by inserting after paragraph 7#c7 the following3 7#d7 ensure that each observer has received training to identify indicators of forced labor 7as defined in section #cfa of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb7 and human trafficking 7as defined in section #cfa of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb7 and refer this information to appropriate authorities2 and 4 #cge4 ,regulations ,not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall promulgate such regulations as may be necessary to carry out this title4 ,,iv ,support for ,coast ,guard workforce ,a ,support for ,coast ,guard members and families #dja4 ,coast ,guard child care improvements 7a7 ,family discount for child development services ,section #bibb7;b77#b7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 7,d7 ,in the case of an active duty member with two or more children attending a ,coast ,guard child development center1 the ,commandant may modify the fees to be charged for attendance for the second and any subsequent child of such member by an amount that is #ae percent less than the amount of the fee otherwise chargeable for the attendance of the first such child enrolled at the center1 or another fee as the ,commandant determines appropriate1 consistent with multiple children4 4 7b7 ,child development center standards and inspections ,section #bibc7;a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 7a7 ,standards ,the ,commandant shall require each ,coast ,guard child development center to meet standards of operation-- 7#a7 that the ,commandant considers appropriate to ensure the health1 safety1 and welfare of the children and employees at the center2 and 7#b7 necessary for accreditation by an appropriate national early childhood programs accrediting entity4 4 7c7 ,child care subsidy program 7#a7 ,authorization 7,a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,,ii of chapter #bi of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting at the end the following3 #bibg4 ,child care subsidy program 7a7 ,authority ,the ,commandant may operate a child care subsidy program to provide financial assistance to eligible providers that provide child care services or youth program services to members of the ,coast ,guard and any other individual the ,commandant considers appropriate1 if-- 7#a7 providing such financial assistance-- 7,a7 is in the best interests of the ,coast ,guard2 and 7,b7 enables supplementation or expansion of the provision of ,coast ,guard child care services1 while not supplanting or replacing ,coast ,guard child care services2 and 7#b7 the ,commandant ensures1 to the extent practicable1 that the eligible provider is able to comply1 and does comply1 with the regulations1 policies1 and standards applicable to ,coast ,guard child care services4 7b7 ,eligible providers ,a provider of child care services or youth program services is eligible for financial assistance under this section if the provider-- 7#a7 is licensed to provide such services under applicable ,state and local law2 7#b7 is registered in an au pair program of the ,department of ,state2 7#c7 is a family home daycare2 or 7#d7 is a provider of family child care services that-- 7,a7 otherwise provides federally funded or federally sponsored child development services2 7,b7 provides such services in a child development center owned and operated by a private1 not-for-profit organization2 7,c7 provides a before-school or after-school child care program in a public school facility2 7,d7 conducts an otherwise federally funded or federally sponsored school-age child care or youth services program2 7,e7 conducts a school-age child care or youth services program operated by a not-for-profit organization2 7,f7 provides in-home child care1 such as a nanny or an au pair2 or 7,g7 is a provider of another category of child care services or youth program services the ,commandant considers appropriate for meeting the needs of members or civilian employees of the ,coast ,guard4 7c7 ,funding ,to provide financial assistance under this subsection1 the ,commandant may use any funds appropriated for the ,coast ,guard for operation and maintenance4 4 7,b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #bi of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section #bibf the following3 #bibg4 ,child care subsidy program4 4 7#b7 ,expansion of child care subsidy program 7,a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall-- 7i7 evaluate potential eligible uses for the child care subsidy program established under section #bibg of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code 7referred to in this paragraph as the program72 and 7ii7 expand the eligible uses of funds for the program to accommodate the child care needs of members of the ,coast ,guard 7including such members with nonstandard work hours and surge or other deployment cycles71 including by providing funds directly to such members instead of care providers4 7,b7 ,considerations ,in evaluating potential eligible uses under subparagraph 7,a71 the ,commandant shall consider au pairs1 nanny services1 nanny shares1 in-home child care services1 care services such as supplemental care for children with disabilities1 and any other child care delivery method the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7,c7 ,requirements ,in establishing expanded eligible uses of funds for the program1 the ,commandant shall ensure that such uses-- 7i7 are in the best interests of the ,coast ,guard2 7ii7 provide flexibility for members of the ,coast ,guard1 including such members and employees with nonstandard work hours2 and 7iii7 ensure a safe environment for dependents of such members and employees4 7,d7 ,publication ,not later than #ah months after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall publish an updated ,commandant ,instruction ,manual 7referred to in this paragraph as the manual7 that describes the expanded eligible uses of the program4 7,e7 ,report 7i7 ,in general ,not later than #ah months after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report outlining the expansion of the program4 7ii7 ,elements ,the report required by clause 7i7 shall include the following3 7,i7 ,an analysis of the considerations described in subparagraph 7,b74 7,,ii7 ,a description of the analysis used to identify eligible uses that were evaluated and incorporated into the manual under subparagraph 7,d74 7,,iii7 ,a full analysis and justification with respect to the forms of care that were ultimately not included in the manual4 7,,iv7 ,any recommendation with respect to funding or additional authorities necessary1 including proposals for legislative change1 to meet the current and anticipated future child care subsidy demands of the ,coast ,guard4 #djb4 ,armed ,forces access to ,coast ,guard child care facilities ,section #bibb7;a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 7a7 7#a7 ,the ,commandant may make child development services available1 in such priority as the ,commandant considers to be appropriate and consistent with readiness and resources and in the best interests of dependents of members and civilian employees of the ,coast ,guard1 for-- 7,a7 members and civilian employees of the ,coast ,guard2 7,b7 surviving dependents of members of the ,coast ,guard who have died on active duty1 if such dependents were beneficiaries of a ,coast ,guard child development service at the time of the death of such members2 7,c7 members of the armed forces 7as defined in section #aja of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code72 and 7,d7 ,federal civilian employees4 7#b7 ,child development service benefits provided under the authority of this section shall be in addition to benefits provided under other laws4 4 #djc4 ,cadet pregnancy policy improvements 7a7 ,regulations required ,not later than #ah months after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating1 in consultation with the ,secretary of ,defense1 shall prescribe regulations that-- 7#a7 preserve parental guardianship rights of cadets who become pregnant or father a child while attending the ,coast ,guard ,academy2 and 7#b7 maintain military and academic requirements for graduation and commissioning4 7b7 ,briefing ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on the development of the regulations required by subsection 7a74 #djd4 ,pilot program for fertility treatments 7a7 ,findings ,congress makes the following findings3 7#a7 ,members of the ,coast ,guard face unique challenges in addressing infertility issues4 7#b7 ,frequent deployments1 dislocation1 transfers1 and operational tempo impart unique stresses to members of the ,coast ,guard and their families4 ,the same stressors often disrupt or make fertility treatments impractical or cost prohibitive4 7#c7 ,only #f military treatment facilities in the ,united ,states offer fertility treatments to members of the ,armed ,forces4 7b7 ,authorization 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall establish a pilot program for all qualified members of the ,coast ,guard for the purpose of expanding access to fertility treatment centers4 7#b7 ,inclusions ,the pilot program required by paragraph 7#a7 may expand access and availability of fertility-related medical care and treatments1 as determined by the ,commandant4 7#c7 ,consideration of methods to expand access ,as part of the pilot program under this section1 the ,commandant shall consider methods to expand access to fertility treatments for members of the ,coast ,guard1 including by-- 7,a7 examining support to improve access to fertility services traditionally considered nonessential and not covered by the ,,tricare program 7as defined under section #ajgb7g7 of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code71 such as medications1 reproductive counseling1 and other treatments2 7,b7 exploring ways to increase access to military treatment facilities that offer assistive reproductive technology services1 consistent with-- 7i7 the ,department of ,defense ,joint ,travel ,regulations issued on ,june #a1 #bjbb2 and 7ii7 the ,coast ,guard ,supplement to the ,joint ,travel ,regulations issued on ,june #bh1 #bjai2 7,c7 developing a process to allow assignment or reassignment of members of the ,coast ,guard requesting fertility treatments to a location conducive to receiving treatments2 7,d7 in a case in which use of military treatment facilities is not available or practicable1 entering into partnerships with private-sector fertility treatment providers2 and 7,e7 providing flexible working hours1 duty schedules1 and administrative leave to allow for necessary treatments1 appointments1 and other services associated with receipt of fertility treatments and associated care4 7c7 ,duration ,the duration of the pilot program under subsection 7a7 shall be not less than #e years beginning on the date on which the pilot program is established4 7d7 ,discharge on district basis ,the ,commandant-- 7#a7 may carry out the pilot program on a district basis2 and 7#b7 shall include remote and urban units in the pilot program4 #dje4 ,combat-related special compensation 7a7 ,report and briefing ,not later than #ij days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 and every #ahj days thereafter until the date that is #e years after the date on which the initial report is submitted under this subsection1 the ,commandant shall submit a report and provide an in-person briefing to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives on the implementation of section #bba of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjae 7,public ,law #aad-abj2 #aj ,u4,s4,c4 #adac;a note74 7b7 ,elements ,each report and briefing required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,a description of methods to educate members and retirees on the combat-related special compensation program4 7#b7 ,statistics regarding enrollment in such program for members of the ,coast ,guard and ,coast ,guard retirees4 7#c7 ,a summary of each of the following3 7,a7 ,activities carried out relating to the education of members of the ,coast ,guard participating in the ,transition ,assistance ,program with respect to the combat-related special compensation program4 7,b7 ,activities carried out relating to the education of members of the ,coast ,guard who are engaged in missions in which they are susceptible to injuries that may result in qualification for combat-related special compensation1 including flight school1 the ,national ,motor ,lifeboat ,school1 deployable special forces1 and other training programs as the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7,c7 ,activities carried out relating to training physicians and physician assistants employed by the ,coast ,guard1 or otherwise stationed in ,coast ,guard clinics1 sickbays1 or other locations at which medical care is provided to members of the ,coast ,guard1 for the purpose of ensuring1 during medical examinations1 appropriate counseling and documentation of symptoms1 injuries1 and the associated incident that resulted in such injuries4 7,d7 ,activities relating to the notification of heath service officers with respect to the combat-related special compensation program4 7#d7 ,the written guidance provided to members of the ,coast ,guard regarding necessary recordkeeping to ensure eligibility for benefits under such program4 7#e7 ,any other matter relating to combat-related special compensation the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7c7 ,disability due to chemical or hazardous material exposure ,section #bba7;a77#b7 of the ,coast ,guard ,reauthorization ,act of #bjae 7,public ,law #aad-abj2 #aj ,u4,s4,c4 #adac;a note7 is amended1 in the matter preceding subparagraph 7,a7-- 7#a7 by striking and hazardous and inserting 1 hazardous2 and 7#b7 by inserting 1 or a duty in which chemical or other hazardous material exposure has occurred 7such as during marine inspections or pollution response activities7 after surfman74 #djf4 ,restoration of amounts improperly withheld for tax purposes from severance payments to veterans of the ,coast ,guard with combat-related injuries 7a7 ,application to members of the ,coast ,guard when the ,coast ,guard is not operating as a service in the ,department of the ,navy ,the ,combat-,injured ,veterans ,tax ,fairness ,act of #bjaf 7,public ,law #aad-bib2 #aj ,u4,s4,c4 #abab note7 is amended-- 7#a7 in section #c-- 7,a7 in subsection 7a7-- 7i7 in the matter preceding paragraph 7#a71 by inserting 7and the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard when it is not operating as a service in the ,department of the ,navy1 and the ,secretary of ,transportation1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard during the period in which it was operating as a service in the ,department of ,transportation71 in coordination with the ,secretary of the ,treasury1 after the ,secretary of ,defense2 7ii7 in paragraph 7#a77;,a7-- 7,i7 in clause 7i71 by striking the ,secretary and inserting the ,secretary of ,defense 7or the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security or the ,secretary of ,transportation1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard1 as applicable72 7,,ii7 in clause 7ii71 by striking the ,secretary and inserting the ,secretary of ,defense 7or the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security or the ,secretary of ,transportation1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard1 as applicable72 and 7,,iii7 in clause 7iv71 striking the ,secretary and inserting the ,secretary of ,defense 7or the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security or the ,secretary of ,transportation1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard1 as applicable72 and 7iii7 in paragraph 7#b71 by amending subparagraph 7,b7 to read as follows3 7,b7 instructions for-- 7i7 filing amended tax returns to recover the amounts improperly withheld for tax purposes2 and 7ii7 requesting standard refund amounts described in subsection 7b74 2 7,b7 by redesignating subsection 7b7 as subsection 7c72 and 7,c7 by inserting after subsection 7a7 the following3 7b7 ,standard refund amounts described ,the standard refund amounts described in this subsection are-- 7#a7 #a1gej for tax years #aiia through #bjje2 7#b7 #b1djj for tax years #bjjf through #bjaj2 and 7#c7 #c1bjj for tax years #bjaa through #bjaf4 2 7#b7 in section #d-- 7,a7 in the section heading1 by inserting and the ,secretary of the ,department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating after ,secretary of ,defense2 7,b7 by inserting 7and the ,secretary of the ,department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating when it is not operating as a service in the ,department of the ,navy71 in coordination with the ,secretary of the ,treasury1 after ,the ,secretary of ,defense2 and 7,c7 by striking made by the ,secretary and inserting made by the ,secretary of ,defense 7and the ,secretary of the ,department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating with respect to the ,coast ,guard72 and 7#c7 in section #e-- 7,a7 in subsection 7a7-- 7i7 by inserting 7and the ,secretary of the ,department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard when it is not operating as a service in the ,department of the ,navy1 and the ,secretary of ,transportation1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard during the period in which it was operating as a service in the ,department of ,transportation7 after the ,secretary of ,defense2 and 7ii7 by striking the ,secretary to and inserting the ,secretary of ,defense 7or the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security or the ,secretary of ,transportation1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard1 as applicable7 to2 and 7,b7 in subsection 7b7-- 7i7 in paragraph 7#b71 by striking the ,secretary and inserting the ,secretary of ,defense 7or the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security or the ,secretary of ,transportation1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard1 as applicable72 and 7ii7 in paragraph 7#c71 by striking the ,secretary and inserting the ,secretary of ,defense 7or the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security1 with respect to the ,coast ,guard when it is not operating as a service in the ,department of the ,navy74 7b7 ,deadlines 7#a7 ,identification of amounts improperly withheld and reporting ,the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security and the ,secretary of ,transportation1 in coordination with the ,secretary of the ,treasury1 shall carry out the requirements under-- 7,a7 section #c7;a7 of the ,combat-,injured ,veterans ,tax ,fairness ,act of #bjaf 7,public ,law #aad-bib2 #aj ,u4,s4,c4 #abab note71 as amended by subsection 7a77#a77;,a71 not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act2 and 7,b7 section #e of that ,act1 as amended by subsection 7a77#c71 not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act4 7#b7 ,ensuring amounts are not improperly withheld ,the ,secretary of ,homeland ,security shall carry out the requirements under section #d of the ,combat-,injured ,veterans ,tax ,fairness ,act of #bjaf 7,public ,law #aad-bib2 #aj ,u4,s4,c4 #abab note71 as amended by subsection 7a77#b71 beginning on the date of the enactment of this ,act4 #djg4 ,modification of basic needs allowance for members of the ,coast ,guard 7a7 ,in general ,section #djb;b of title #cg1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by redesignating subsections 7h7 through 7k7 as subsections 7i7 through 7l71 respectively2 and 7#b7 by inserting after subsection 7g7 the following3 7h7 ,special rule for members of ,coast ,guard 7#a7 ,in general ,in the case of a member of the ,coast ,guard1 the ,secretary concerned shall-- 7,a7 determine under subsection 7f7 whether the member is eligible under subsection 7b7 for the allowance under subsection 7a72 and 7,b7 if the ,secretary concerned determines a member is eligible for the allowance1 pay the allowance to the member unless the member elects not to receive the allowance4 7#b7 ,attestation of income ,a member of the ,coast ,guard is not required to submit an application under subsection 7e7 to receive the allowance under subsection 7a71 but not less frequently than biennially1 the member shall submit to the ,secretary concerned an attestation that the gross household income of the member does not exceed the amount described in subsection 7b77#b74 7#c7 ,electronic process ,the ,secretary concerned shall establish an electronic process pursuant to which a member of the ,coast ,guard may-- 7,a7 elect under paragraph 7#a77;,b7 not to receive the allowance2 or 7,b7 submit an attestation under paragraph 7#b74 4 7b7 ,conforming amendments ,such section is further amended-- 7#a7 in subsection 7e7-- 7,a7 in paragraphs 7#a7 and 7#b71 by striking ,a member both places it appears and inserting ,except as provided by subsection 7h71 a member2 and 7,b7 in paragraph 7#d77;,b7-- 7i7 by striking that the member and inserting the following3 8that-- 7i7 the member 2 7ii7 by striking the period at the end and inserting 2 or2 and 7iii7 by adding at the end the following3 7ii7 in the case of a member of the ,coast ,guard1 that the member may receive the allowance as provided by subsection 7h74 2 and 7#b7 in subsection 7g77#b71 by striking ,a member and inserting ,except as provided by subsection 7h71 a member4 #djh4 ,study on food security 7a7 ,study 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall conduct a study on food insecurity among members of the ,coast ,guard4 7#b7 ,elements ,the study required by paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an analysis of the impact of food deserts on members of the ,coast ,guard1 and their dependents1 who live in areas with high costs of living1 including areas with high-density populations and rural areas4 7,b7 ,a comparison of-- 7i7 the current method used by the ,commandant to determine which areas are considered to be high cost-of-living areas2 7ii7 local-level indicators used by the ,bureau of ,labor ,statistics to determine cost of living that indicate buying power and consumer spending in specific geographic areas2 and 7iii7 indicators of cost of living used by the ,department of ,agriculture in market basket analyses1 and other measures of local and regional food costs4 7,c7 ,an assessment of the accuracy of the method and indicators described in subparagraph 7,b7 in quantifying high cost of living in low-data and remote areas4 7,d7 ,an assessment of the manner in which data accuracy and availability affect the accuracy of cost-of-living allowance calculations and other benefits1 as the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7,e7 ,recommendations-- 7i7 to improve access to high-quality1 affordable food within a reasonable distance of ,coast ,guard units located in areas identified as food deserts2 7ii7 to reduce transit costs for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents who are required to travel to access high-quality1 affordable food2 and 7iii7 for improving the accuracy of such calculations4 7,f7 ,the estimated costs of implementing each recommendation made under subparagraph 7,e74 7b7 ,plan 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall develop a detailed plan to implement the recommendations of the study conducted under subsection 7a74 7#b7 ,report ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on the plan required by paragraph 7#a71 including the cost of implementation1 proposals for legislative change1 and any other result of the study the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7c7 ,food desert defined ,in this section1 the term food desert means an area1 as determined by the ,commandant1 in which it is difficult to obtain affordable1 high-quality fresh food in the immediate area in which members of the ,coast ,guard serve and reside4 ,b ,healthcare #dba4 ,development of medical staffing standards for the ,coast ,guard 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant1 in consultation with the ,defense ,health ,agency and any healthcare expert the ,commandant considers appropriate1 shall develop medical staffing standards for the ,coast ,guard consistent with the recommendations of the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states set forth in the report entitled ,coast ,guard ,health ,care3 ,improvements ,needed for ,determining ,staffing ,needs and ,monitoring ,access to ,care published in ,february #bjbb4 7b7 ,inclusions ,the standards required by subsection 7a7 shall address and take into consideration the following3 7#a7 ,current and future operations of healthcare personnel in support of ,department of ,homeland ,security missions1 including surge deployments for incident response4 7#b7 ,staffing standards for specialized providers1 such as flight surgeons1 dentists1 behavioral health specialists1 and physical therapists4 7#c7 ,staffing levels of medical1 dental1 and behavioral health providers for the ,coast ,guard who are-- 7,a7 members of the ,coast ,guard2 7,b7 assigned to the ,coast ,guard from the ,public ,health ,service2 7,c7 ,federal civilian employees2 or 7,d7 contractors hired by the ,coast ,guard to fill vacancies4 7#d7 ,staffing levels at medical facilities for ,coast ,guard units in remote locations4 7#e7 ,any discrepancy between medical staffing standards of the ,department of ,defense and medical staffing standards of the ,coast ,guard4 7c7 ,review ,not later than #ij days after the staffing standards required by subsection 7a7 are completed1 the ,commandant shall submit the standards to the ,comptroller ,general1 who shall review the standards and provide recommendations to the ,commandant4 7d7 ,report to ,congress ,not later than #ahj days after developing such standards1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the standards developed under subsection 7a7 that includes a plan and a description of the resources and budgetary needs required to implement the standards4 7e7 ,modification1 implementation1 and periodic updates ,the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 modify such standards as necessary based on the recommendations provided under subsection 7c72 7#b7 implement the standards2 and 7#c7 review and update the standards not less frequently than every #d years4 #dbb4 ,healthcare system review and strategic plan 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #bgj days after the completion of the studies conducted by the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states under sections #hbei and #hbfj of the ,william ,m4 7,mac7 ,thornberry ,national ,defense ,authorization ,act of ,fiscal ,year #bjba 7,public ,law #aaf-bhc2 #acd ,stat4 #dfgi71 the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 conduct a comprehensive review of the ,coast ,guard healthcare system2 and 7#b7 develop a strategic plan for improvements to1 and modernization of1 such system to ensure access to high-quality1 timely healthcare for members of the ,coast ,guard1 their dependents1 and applicable ,coast ,guard retirees4 7b7 ,plan 7#a7 ,in general ,the strategic plan developed under subsection 7a7 shall seek-- 7,a7 to maximize the medical readiness of members of the ,coast ,guard2 7,b7 to optimize delivery of healthcare benefits2 7,c7 to ensure high-quality training of ,coast ,guard medical personnel2 and 7,d7 to prepare for the future needs of the ,coast ,guard4 7#b7 ,elements ,the plan shall address1 at a minimum1 the following3 7,a7 ,improving access to healthcare for members of the ,coast ,guard1 their dependents1 and applicable ,coast ,guard retirees4 7,b7 ,quality of care4 7,c7 ,the experience and satisfaction of members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents with the ,coast ,guard healthcare system4 7,d7 ,the readiness of members of the ,coast ,guard and medical personnel4 7c7 ,advisory committee 7#a7 ,establishment ,the ,commandant shall establish an advisory committee to conduct a comprehensive review of the ,coast ,guard healthcare system 7referred to in this section as the ,advisory ,committee74 7#b7 ,membership 7,a7 ,composition ,the ,advisory ,committee shall be composed of members selected by the ,commandant1 including-- 7i7 #a or more members of the uniformed services 7as defined in section #aja of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code7 or ,federal employees with expertise in-- 7,i7 the medical1 dental1 pharmacy1 behavioral health1 or reproductive health fields2 or 7,,ii7 any other field the ,commandant considers appropriate2 7ii7 a representative of the ,defense ,health ,agency2 and 7iii7 a medical representative from each ,coast ,guard district4 7#c7 ,chairperson ,the chairperson of the ,advisory ,committee shall be the ,director of the ,health1 ,safety1 and ,work ,life ,directorate of the ,coast ,guard4 7#d7 ,staff ,the ,advisory ,committee shall be staffed by employees of the ,coast ,guard4 7#e7 ,report to ,commandant ,not later than #a year after the ,advisory ,committee is established1 the ,advisory ,committee shall submit to the ,commandant a report that-- 7,a7 taking into consideration the medical staffing standards developed under section #dba1 assesses the recommended medical staffing standards set forth in the ,comptroller ,general study required by section #hbfj of the ,william ,m4 7,mac7 ,thornberry ,national ,defense ,authorization ,act for ,fiscal ,year #bjba 7,public ,law #aaf-bhc2 #acd ,stat4 #dfgi71 and compares such standards to the medical staffing standards of the ,department of ,defense and the private sector2 7,b7 addresses improvements needed to ensure continuity of care for members of the ,coast ,guard1 including by evaluating the feasibility of having a dedicated primary care manager for each such member while the member is stationed at a duty station2 7,c7 evaluates the effects of increased surge deployments of medical personnel on staffing needs at ,coast ,guard clinics2 7,d7 identifies ways to improve access to care for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents who are stationed in remote areas1 including methods to expand access to providers in the available network2 7,e7 identifies ways the ,coast ,guard may better use ,department of ,defense ,medical ,health ,system resources for members of the ,coast ,guard1 their dependents1 and applicable retirees2 7,f7 identifies barriers to participation in the ,coast ,guard healthcare system and ways the ,coast ,guard may better use patient feedback to improve quality of care at ,coast ,guard-owned facilities1 military treatment facilities1 and specialist referrals2 7,g7 includes recommendations to improve the ,coast ,guard healthcare system2 and 7,h7 any other matter the ,commandant or the ,advisory ,committee considers appropriate4 7d7 ,report to ,congress ,not later than #b years after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives-- 7#a7 the strategic plan for the ,coast ,guard medical system required by subsection 7a72 7#b7 the report of the ,advisory ,committee submitted to the ,commandant under subsection 7c72 and 7#c7 a description of the manner in which the ,commandant plans to implement the recommendations of the ,advisory ,committee4 #dbc4 ,data collection and access to care 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant1 in consultation with the ,defense ,health ,agency and any healthcare expert the ,commandant considers appropriate1 shall develop a policy to require the collection of data regarding access by members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents to medical1 dental1 and behavioral healthcare as recommended by the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states in the report entitled ,coast ,guard ,health ,care3 ,improvements ,needed for ,determining ,staffing ,needs and ,monitoring ,access to ,care published in ,february #bjbb4 7b7 ,elements ,the policy required by subsection 7a7 shall address the following3 7#a7 ,methods to collect data on access to care for-- 7,a7 routine annual physical health assessments2 7,b7 flight physicals for aviators or prospective aviators2 7,c7 sick call2 7,d7 injuries2 7,e7 dental health2 and 7,f7 behavioral health conditions4 7#b7 ,collection of data on access to care for referrals4 7#c7 ,collection of data on access to care for members of the ,coast ,guard stationed at remote units1 aboard ,coast ,guard cutters1 and on deployments4 7#d7 ,use of the electronic health record system to improve data collection on access to care4 7#e7 ,use of data for addressing the standards of care1 including time between requests for appointments and actual appointments1 including appointments made with referral services4 7c7 ,review by ,comptroller ,general 7#a7 ,submission ,not later than #ae days after the policy is developed under subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall submit the policy to the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states4 7#b7 ,review ,not later than #ahj days after receiving the policy1 the ,comptroller ,general shall review the policy and provide recommendations to the ,commandant4 7#c7 ,modification ,not later than #fj days after receiving the recommendations of the ,comptroller ,general1 the ,commandant shall modify the policy as necessary based on such recommendations4 7d7 ,publication and report to ,congress ,not later than #ij days after the policy is modified under subsection 7c77#c71 the ,commandant shall-- 7#a7 publish the policy on a publicly accessible internet website of the ,coast ,guard2 and 7#b7 submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the policy and the manner in which the ,commandant plans to address access-to-care deficiencies4 7e7 ,periodic updates ,not less frequently than every #e years1 the ,commandant shall review and update the policy4 #dbd4 ,behavioral health policy 7a7 ,sense of ,congress ,it is the sense of ,congress that-- 7#a7 members of the ,coast ,guard-- 7,a7 are exposed to high-risk and often stressful duties2 and 7,b7 should be encouraged to seek appropriate medical treatment and professional guidance2 and 7#b7 after treatment for behavioral health conditions1 many members of the ,coast ,guard should be allowed to resume service in the ,coast ,guard if they-- 7,a7 are able to do so without persistent duty modifications2 and 7,b7 do not pose a risk to themselves or other members of the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,interim behavioral health policy 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall establish an interim behavioral health policy for members of the ,coast ,guard that is in parity with section #e4bh 7relating to behavioral health7 of ,department of ,defense ,instruction #facj4jc1 volume #b1 ,medical ,standards for ,military ,service3 ,retention4 7#b7 ,termination ,the interim policy established under paragraph 7#a7 shall remain in effect until the date on which the ,commandant issues a permanent behavioral health policy for members of the ,coast ,guard4 7c7 ,permanent policy ,in developing a permanent policy with respect to retention and behavioral health1 the ,commandant shall ensure that1 to the extent practicable1 the policy of the ,coast ,guard is in parity with section #e4bh 7relating to behavioral health7 of ,department of ,defense ,instruction #facj4jc1 volume #b1 ,medical ,standards for ,military ,service3 ,retention4 #dbe4 ,members asserting post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury 7a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,i of chapter #be of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #beae4 ,members asserting post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury 7a7 ,medical examination required 7#a7 ,the ,secretary shall ensure that a member of the ,coast ,guard who has performed ,coast ,guard operations or has been sexually assaulted during the preceding #b-year period1 and who is diagnosed by an appropriate licensed or certified healthcare professional as experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury or who otherwise alleges1 based on the service of the member or based on such sexual assault1 the influence of such a condition1 receives a medical examination to evaluate a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury4 7#b7 ,a member described in paragraph 7#a7 shall not be administratively separated under conditions other than honorable1 including an administrative separation in lieu of court-martial1 until the results of the medical examination have been reviewed by appropriate authorities responsible for evaluating1 reviewing1 and approving the separation case1 as determined by the ,secretary4 7#c7 7,a7 ,in a case involving post-traumatic stress disorder1 the medical examination shall be-- 7i7 performed by-- 7,i7 a board-certified or board-eligible psychiatrist2 or 7,,ii7 a licensed doctorate-level psychologist2 or 7ii7 performed under the close supervision of-- 7,i7 a board-certified or board-eligible psychiatrist2 or 7,,ii7 a licensed doctorate-level psychologist1 a doctorate-level mental health provider1 a psychiatry resident1 or a clinical or counseling psychologist who has completed a #a-year internship or residency4 7,b7 ,in a case involving traumatic brain injury1 the medical examination shall be performed by a physiatrist1 psychiatrist1 neurosurgeon1 or neurologist4 7b7 ,purpose of medical examination ,the medical examination required by subsection 7a7 shall assess whether the effects of mental or neurocognitive disorders1 including post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury1 constitute matters in extenuation that relate to the basis for administrative separation under conditions other than honorable or the overall characterization of the service of the member as other than honorable4 7c7 ,inapplicability to proceedings under ,uniform ,code of ,military ,justice ,the medical examination and procedures required by this section do not apply to courts-martial or other proceedings conducted pursuant to the ,uniform ,code of ,military ,justice4 7d7 ,coast ,guard operations defined ,in this section1 the term ,coast ,guard operations has the meaning given that term in section #hhh7;a7 of the ,homeland ,security ,act of #bjjb 7#f ,u4,s4,c4 #dfh7;a774 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,i of chapter #be of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #beae4 ,members asserting post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury4 4 #dbf4 ,improvements to the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system and transition program 7a7 ,temporary policy ,not later than #fj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall develop a temporary policy that-- 7#a7 improves timeliness1 communication1 and outcomes for members of the ,coast ,guard undergoing the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system1 or a related formal or informal process2 7#b7 affords maximum career transition benefits to members of the ,coast ,guard determined by a ,medical ,evaluation ,board to be unfit for retention in the ,coast ,guard2 and 7#c7 maximizes the potential separation and career transition benefits for members of the ,coast ,guard undergoing the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system1 or a related formal or informal process4 7b7 ,elements ,the policy required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,a requirement that any member of the ,coast ,guard who is undergoing the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system1 or a related formal or informal process1 shall be placed in a duty status that allows the member the opportunity to attend necessary medical appointments and other activities relating to the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system1 including completion of any application of the ,department of ,veterans ,affairs and career transition planning4 7#b7 ,in the case of a ,medical ,evaluation ,board report that is not completed within #abj days after the date on which an evaluation by the ,medical ,evaluation ,board was initiated1 the option for such a member to enter permissive duty status4 7#c7 ,a requirement that the date of initiation of an evaluation by a ,medical ,evaluation ,board shall include the date on which any verbal or written affirmation is made to the member1 command1 or medical staff that the evaluation by the ,medical ,evaluation ,board has been initiated4 7#d7 ,an option for such member to seek an internship under the ,skill,bridge program established under section #aadc7;e7 of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code1 and outside employment aimed at improving the transition of the member to civilian life1 only if such an internship or employment does not interfere with necessary medical appointments required for the member's physical disability evaluation4 7#e7 ,a requirement that not less than #ba days notice shall be provided to such a member for any such medical appointment1 to the maximum extent practicable1 to ensure that the appointment timeline is in the best interests of the immediate health of the member4 7#f7 ,a requirement that the ,coast ,guard shall provide such a member with a written separation date upon the completion of a ,medical ,evaluation ,board report that finds the member unfit to continue active duty4 7#g7 ,to provide certainty to such a member with respect to a separation date1 a policy that ensures-- 7,a7 that accountability measures are in place with respect to ,coast ,guard delays throughout the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system1 including-- 7i7 placement of the member in an excess leave status after #bgj days have elapsed since the date of initiation of an evaluation by a ,medical ,evaluation ,board by any competent authority2 and 7ii7 a calculation of the costs to retain the member on active duty1 including the pay1 allowances1 and other associated benefits of the member1 for the period beginning on the date that is #ij days after date of initiation of an evaluation by a ,medical ,evaluation ,board by any competent authority and ending on the date on which the member is separated from the ,coast ,guard2 and 7,b7 the availability of administrative solutions to any such delay4 7#h7 ,with respect to a member of the ,coast ,guard on temporary limited duty status1 an option to remain in the member's current billet1 to the maximum extent practicable1 or to be transferred to a different active-duty billet1 so as to minimize any negative impact on the member's career trajectory4 7#i7 ,a requirement that each respective command shall report to the ,coast ,guard ,personnel ,service ,center any delay of more than #ba days between each stage of the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system for any such member1 including between stages of the processes1 the ,medical ,evaluation ,board1 the ,informal ,physical ,evaluation ,board1 and the ,formal ,physical ,evaluation ,board4 7#aj7 ,a requirement that1 not later than #g days after receipt of a report of a delay described in paragraph 7#i71 the ,personnel ,service ,center shall take corrective action1 which shall ensure that the ,coast ,guard exercises maximum discretion to continue the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system of such a member in a timely manner1 unless such delay is caused by the member4 7#aa7 ,a requirement that-- 7,a7 a member of the ,coast ,guard shall be allowed to make a request for a reasonable delay in the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system to obtain additional input and consultation from a medical or legal professional2 and 7,b7 any such request for delay shall be approved by the ,commandant based on a showing of good cause by the member4 7c7 ,report on temporary policy ,not later than #fj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a copy of the policy developed under subsection 7a74 7d7 ,permanent policy ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall publish a ,commandant ,instruction making the policy developed under subsection 7a7 a permanent policy of the ,coast ,guard4 7e7 ,briefing ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall provide the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on1 and a copy of1 the permanent policy4 7f7 ,annual report on costs 7#a7 ,in general ,not less frequently than annually1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report that1 for the preceding fiscal year-- 7,a7 details the total aggregate service-wide costs described in subsection 7b77#g77;,a77ii7 for members of the ,coast ,guard whose ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system process has exceeded #ij days2 and 7,b7 includes for each such member-- 7i7 an accounting of such costs2 and 7ii7 the number of days that elapsed between the initiation and completion of the ,physical ,disability ,evaluation ,system process4 7#b7 ,personally identifiable information ,a report under paragraph 7#a7 shall not include the personally identifiable information of any member of the ,coast ,guard4 #dbg4 ,expansion of access to counseling 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall hire1 train1 and deploy not fewer than an additional #e behavioral health specialists4 7b7 ,requirement ,through the hiring process required by subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall ensure that at least #ce percent of behavioral health specialists employed by the ,coast ,guard have experience in behavioral healthcare for the purpose of supporting members of the ,coast ,guard with fertility1 infertility1 pregnancy1 miscarriage1 child loss1 postpartum depression1 and related counseling needs4 7c7 ,accessibility ,the support provided by the behavioral health specialists described in subsection 7a7-- 7#a7 may include care delivered via telemedicine2 and 7#b7 shall be made widely available to members of the ,coast ,guard4 7d7 ,authorization of appropriations ,of the amounts authorized to be appropriated under section #dijb7a77;,a7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 as amended by section #aja of this ,act1 #b1jjj1jjj shall be made available to the ,commandant for each of fiscal years #bjbc and #bjbd to carry out this section4 #dbh4 ,expansion of postgraduate opportunities for members of the ,coast ,guard in medical and related fields 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall expand opportunities for members of the ,coast ,guard to secure postgraduate degrees in medical and related professional disciplines for the purpose of supporting ,coast ,guard clinics and operations4 7b7 ,military training student loads ,section #dijd7;b77#c7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking #cej and inserting #che4 #dbi4 ,study on ,coast ,guard telemedicine program 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on the ,coast ,guard telemedicine program4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,an assessment of-- 7,a7 the current capabilities and limitations of the ,coast ,guard telemedicine program2 7,b7 the degree of integration of such program with existing electronic health records2 7,c7 the capability and accessibility of such program1 as compared to the capability and accessibility of the telemedicine programs of the ,department of ,defense and commercial medical providers2 7,d7 the manner in which the ,coast ,guard telemedicine program may be expanded to provide better clinical and behavioral medical services to members of the ,coast ,guard1 including such members stationed at remote units or onboard ,coast ,guard cutters at sea2 and 7,e7 the costs savings associated with the provision of-- 7i7 care through telemedicine2 and 7ii7 preventative care4 7#b7 ,an identification of barriers to full use or expansion of such program4 7#c7 ,a description of the resources necessary to expand such program to its full capability4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after commencing the study required by subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the findings of the study4 #dcj4 ,study on ,coast ,guard medical facilities needs 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #bgj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on ,coast ,guard medical facilities needs4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,a current list of ,coast ,guard medical facilities1 including clinics1 sickbays1 and shipboard facilities4 7#b7 ,a summary of capital needs for ,coast ,guard medical facilities1 including construction and repair4 7#c7 ,a summary of equipment upgrade backlogs of ,coast ,guard medical facilities4 7#d7 ,an assessment of improvements to ,coast ,guard medical facilities1 including improvements to ,,it infrastructure1 required to enable the ,coast ,guard to fully use telemedicine and implement other modernization initiatives4 7#e7 ,an evaluation of the process used by the ,coast ,guard to identify1 monitor1 and construct ,coast ,guard medical facilities4 7#f7 ,a description of the resources necessary to fully address all ,coast ,guard medical facilities needs4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after commencing the study required by subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the findings of the study4 ,c ,housing #dda4 ,strategy to improve quality of life at remote units 7a7 ,in general ,not more than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall develop a strategy to improve the quality of life for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents who are stationed in remote units4 7b7 ,elements ,the strategy required by subsection 7a7 shall address the following3 7#a7 ,methods to improve the availability or affordability of housing options for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents through-- 7,a7 ,coast ,guard-owned housing2 7,b7 ,coast ,guard-facilitated housing2 or 7,c7 basic allowance for housing adjustments to rates that are more competitive for members of the ,coast ,guard seeking privately owned or privately rented housing4 7#b7 ,methods to improve access by members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents to-- 7,a7 medical1 dental1 and pediatric care2 7,b7 healthcare specific to women2 and 7,c7 behavioral healthcare4 7#c7 ,methods to increase access to child care services1 including recommendations for increasing child care capacity and opportunities for care within the ,coast ,guard and in the private sector4 7#d7 ,methods to improve non-,coast ,guard network internet access at remote units-- 7,a7 to improve communications between families and members of the ,coast ,guard on active duty2 and 7,b7 for other purposes such as education and training4 7#e7 ,methods to support spouses and dependents who face challenges specific to remote locations4 7#f7 ,any other matter the ,commandant considers appropriate4 7c7 ,briefing ,not later than #ahj days after the strategy required by subsection 7a7 is completed1 the ,commandant shall provide to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a briefing on the strategy4 7d7 ,remote unit defined ,in this section1 the term remote unit means a unit located in an area in which members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents are eligible for ,,tricare ,prime ,remote4 #ddb4 ,study on ,coast ,guard housing access1 cost1 and challenges 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ij days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study on housing access1 cost1 and associated challenges facing members of the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,an assessment of-- 7,a7 the extent to which-- 7i7 the ,commandant has evaluated the sufficiency1 availability1 and affordability of housing options for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents2 and 7ii7 the ,coast ,guard owns and leases housing for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents2 7,b7 the methods used by the ,commandant to manage housing data1 and the manner in which the ,commandant uses such data-- 7i7 to inform ,coast ,guard housing policy2 and 7ii7 to guide investments in ,coast ,guard-owned housing capacity and other investments in housing1 such as long-term leases and other options2 and 7,c7 the process used by the ,commandant to gather and provide information used to calculate housing allowances for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents1 including whether the ,commandant has established best practices to manage low-data areas4 7#b7 ,an assessment as to whether it is advantageous for the ,coast ,guard to continue to use the ,department of ,defense basic allowance for housing system4 7#c7 ,recommendations for actions the ,commandant should take to improve the availability and affordability of housing for members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents who are stationed in-- 7,a7 remote units located in areas in which members of the ,coast ,guard and their dependents are eligible for ,,tricare ,prime ,remote2 or 7,b7 units located in areas with a high number of vacation rental properties4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after commencing the study required by subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the findings of the study4 7d7 ,strategy ,not later than #ahj days after the submission of the report required by subsection 7c71 the ,commandant shall publish a ,coast ,guard housing strategy that addresses the findings set forth in the report1 which shall1 at a minimum-- 7#a7 address housing inventory shortages and affordability2 and 7#b7 include a ,coast ,guard-owned housing infrastructure investment prioritization plan4 ,d ,other matters #dea4 ,report on availability of emergency supplies for ,coast ,guard personnel 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the availability of appropriate emergency supplies at ,coast ,guard units4 7b7 ,elements ,the report required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,an assessment of the extent to which-- 7,a7 the ,commandant ensures that ,coast ,guard units assess risks and plan accordingly to obtain and maintain appropriate emergency supplies2 and 7,b7 ,coast ,guard units have emergency food and water supplies available according to local emergency preparedness needs4 7#b7 ,a description of any challenge the ,commandant faces in planning for and maintaining adequate emergency supplies for ,coast ,guard personnel4 7c7 ,publication ,not later than #ij days after the date of submission of the report required by subsection 7a71 the ,commandant shall publish a strategy and recommendations in response to the report that includes-- 7#a7 a plan for improving emergency preparedness and emergency supplies for ,coast ,guard units2 and 7#b7 a process for periodic review and engagement with ,coast ,guard units to ensure emerging emergency response supply needs are achieved and maintained4 ,v ,maritime ,a ,vessel safety #eja4 ,abandoned ,seafarer ,fund amendments ,section #aaaac of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in the matter preceding subparagraph 7,a7 of subsection 7a77#b71 by striking may be appropriated and inserting shall be available without further appropriations1 and shall remain available until expended12 and 7#b7 in subsection 7c7-- 7,a7 in the matter preceding subparagraph 7,a7 of paragraph 7#a71 by inserting plus a surcharge of #be percent of such total amount1 after seafarer2 and 7,b7 by striking paragraph 7#d74 #ejb4 ,receipts2 international agreements for ice patrol services ,section #hjcja7;c7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking the period at the end and inserting and shall be available until expended for the purpose of the ,coast ,guard international ice patrol program44 #ejc4 ,passenger vessel security and safety requirements ,notwithstanding any other provision of law1 requirements authorized under sections #ceji of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 shall not apply to any passenger vessel1 as defined in section #baja of such title1 that-- 7#a7 carries in excess of #bej passengers2 and 7#b7 is1 or was1 in operation in the internal waters of the ,united ,states on voyages inside the ,boundary ,line1 as defined in section #ajc of such title1 on or before ,july #bg1 #bjcj4 #ejd4 ,at-sea recovery operations pilot program 7a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary shall conduct a pilot program to evaluate the potential use of remotely controlled or autonomous operation and monitoring of certain vessels for the purposes of-- 7#a7 better understanding the complexities of such at-sea operations and potential risks to navigation safety1 vessel security1 maritime workers1 the public1 and the environment2 7#b7 gathering observational and performance data from monitoring the use of remotely controlled or autonomous vessels2 and 7#c7 assessing and evaluating regulatory requirements necessary to guide the development of future occurrences of such operations and activities4 7b7 ,duration and effective date ,the duration of the pilot program established under this section shall be not more than #e years beginning on the date on which the pilot program is established1 which shall be not later than #ahj days after the date of enactment of this ,act4 7c7 ,authorized activities ,the activities authorized under this section include-- 7#a7 remote over-the-horizon monitoring operations related to the active at-sea recovery of spaceflight components on an unmanned vessel or platform2 7#b7 procedures for the unaccompanied operation and monitoring of an unmanned spaceflight recovery vessel or platform2 and 7#c7 unmanned vessel transits and testing operations without a physical tow line related to space launch and recovery operations1 except within #ab nautical miles of a port4 7d7 ,interim authority ,in recognition of potential risks to navigation safety1 vessel security1 maritime workers1 the public1 and the environment1 and the unique circumstances requiring the use of remotely operated or autonomous vessels1 the ,secretary1 in the pilot program established under subsection 7a71 may-- 7#a7 allow remotely controlled or autonomous vessel operations to proceed consistent to the extent practicable under titles #cc and #df of the ,united ,states ,code1 including navigation and manning laws and regulations2 7#b7 modify or waive applicable regulations and guidance as the ,secretary considers appropriate to-- 7,a7 allow remote and autonomous vessel at-sea operations and activities to occur while ensuring navigation safety2 and 7,b7 ensure the reliable1 safe1 and secure operation of remotely controlled or autonomous vessels2 and 7#c7 require each remotely operated or autonomous vessel to be at all times under the supervision of #a or more individuals-- 7,a7 holding a merchant mariner credential which is suitable to the satisfaction of the ,coast ,guard2 and 7,b7 who shall practice due regard for the safety of navigation of the autonomous vessel1 to include collision avoidance4 7e7 ,rule of construction ,nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the ,secretary to-- 7#a7 permit foreign vessels to participate in the pilot program established under subsection 7a72 7#b7 waive or modify applicable laws and regulations under titles #cc and #df of the ,united ,states ,code1 except to the extent authorized under subsection 7d77#b72 or 7#c7 waive or modify any regulations arising under international conventions4 7f7 ,savings provision ,nothing in this section may be construed to authorize the employment in the coastwise trade of a vessel or platform that does not meet the requirements of sections #abaab1 #eeajb1 #eeajc1 and #eeaaa of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7g7 ,briefings ,the ,secretary or the designee of the ,secretary shall brief the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives on the program established under subsection 7a7 on a quarterly basis4 7h7 ,report ,not later than #ahj days after the expiration of the pilot program established under subsection 7a71 the ,secretary shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a final report regarding an assessment of the execution of the pilot program and implications for maintaining navigation safety1 the safety of maritime workers1 and the preservation of the environment4 7i7 ,,gao report 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #ah months after the date of enactment of this section1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the state of autonomous and remote technologies in the operation of shipboard equipment and the safe and secure navigation of vessels in ,federal waters of the ,united ,states4 7#b7 ,elements ,the report required under paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an assessment of commercially available autonomous and remote technologies in the operation of shipboard equipment and the safe and secure navigation of vessels during the #aj years immediately preceding the date of the report4 7,b7 ,an analysis of the safety1 physical security1 cybersecurity1 and collision avoidance risks and benefits associated with autonomous and remote technologies in the operation of shipboard equipment and the safe and secure navigation of vessels1 including environmental considerations4 7,c7 ,an assessment of the impact of such autonomous and remote technologies1 and all associated technologies1 on labor1 including-- 7i7 roles for credentialed and noncredentialed workers regarding such autonomous1 remote1 and associated technologies2 and 7ii7 training and workforce development needs associated with such technologies4 7,d7 ,an assessment and evaluation of regulatory requirements necessary to guide the development of future autonomous1 remote1 and associated technologies in the operation of shipboard equipment and safe and secure navigation of vessels4 7,e7 ,an assessment of the extent to which such technologies are being used in other countries and how such countries have regulated such technologies4 7,f7 ,recommendations regarding authorization1 infrastructure1 and other requirements necessary for the implementation of such technologies in the ,united ,states4 7#c7 ,consultation ,the report required under paragraph 7#a7 shall include1 at a minimum1 consultation with the maritime industry including-- 7,a7 vessel operators1 including commercial carriers1 entities engaged in exploring for1 developing1 or producing resources1 including non-mineral energy resources in its offshore areas1 and supporting entities in the maritime industry2 7,b7 shipboard personnel impacted by any change to autonomous vessel operations1 in order to assess the various benefits and risks associated with the implementation of autonomous1 remote1 and associated technologies in the operation of shipboard equipment and safe and secure navigation of vessels and the impact such technologies would have on maritime jobs and maritime manpower2 and 7,c7 relevant federally funded research institutions1 non-governmental organizations1 and academia4 7j7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,merchant mariner credential ,the term merchant mariner credential means a merchant mariner license1 certificate1 or document that the ,secretary is authorized to issue pursuant to title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7#b7 ,secretary ,the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating4 #eje4 ,exoneration and limitation of liability for small passenger vessels 7a7 ,restructuring ,chapter #cje of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by inserting before section #cjeja the following3 ,i ,general provisions 2 7#b7 by inserting before section #cjejc the following3 ,,ii ,exoneration and limitation of liability 2 and 7#c7 by redesignating sections #cjejc through #cjeab as sections #cjeba through #cjecj1 respectively4 7b7 ,definitions ,section #cjeja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended to read as follows3 #cjeja4 ,definitions ,in this chapter3 7#a7 ,covered small passenger vessel ,the term covered small passenger vessel-- 7,a7 means a small passenger vessel1 as defined in section #baja1 that is-- 7i7 not a wing-in-ground craft2 and 7ii7 carrying-- 7,i7 not more than #di passengers on an overnight domestic voyage2 and 7,,ii7 not more than #aej passengers on any voyage that is not an overnight domestic voyage2 and 7,b7 includes any wooden vessel constructed prior to ,march #aa1 #aiif1 carrying at least #a passenger for hire4 7#b7 ,owner ,the term owner includes a charterer that mans1 supplies1 and navigates a vessel at the charterer's own expense or by the charterer's own procurement4 4 7c7 ,applicability ,section #cjejb of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by striking ,except as otherwise provided and inserting the following3 7a7 ,in general4--,except as to covered small passenger vessels and as otherwise provided2 7#b7 by striking section #cjejc and inserting section #cjeba2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following3 7b7 ,application ,notwithstanding subsection 7a71 the requirements of section #cjebf of this title shall apply to covered small passenger vessels4 4 7d7 ,provisions requiring notice of claim or limiting time for bringing action ,section #cjebf of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 as redesignated by subsection 7a71 is amended-- 7#a7 in subsection 7a71 by inserting and covered small passenger vessels after seagoing vessels2 and 7#b7 in subsection 7b7-- 7,a7 in paragraph 7#a71 by striking #f months and inserting #b years2 and 7,b7 in paragraph 7#b71 by striking one year and inserting #b years4 7e7 ,chapter analysis ,the analysis for chapter #cje of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by inserting before the item relating to section #cjeja the following3 ,,subchapter ,i--,general provisions 2 7#b7 by inserting after the item relating to section #cjejb the following3 ,,subchapter ,,ii--,exoneration and limitation of liability 2 7#c7 by striking the item relating to section #cjeja and inserting the following3 #cjeja4 ,definitions4 2 and 7#d7 by redesignating the items relating to sections #cjejc through #cjeab as items relating to sections #cjeba through #cjecj1 respectively4 7f7 ,conforming amendments ,title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is further amended-- 7#a7 in section #adcje7;a77#e71 by striking section #cjejf and inserting section #cjebd2 7#b7 in section #cjebc7;a71 as redesignated by subsection 7a71 by striking section #cjejf and inserting section #cjebd2 7#c7 in section #cjebd7;b71 as redesignated by subsection 7a71 by striking section #cjeje and inserting section #cjebc2 and 7#d7 in section #cjebe1 as redesignated by subsection 7a7-- 7,a7 in the matter preceding paragraph 7#a71 by striking sections #cjeje and #cjejf and inserting sections #cjebc and #cjebd2 7,b7 in paragraph 7#a71 by striking section #cjeje and inserting section #cjebc2 and 7,c7 in paragraph 7#b71 by striking section #cjejf7;b7 and inserting section #cjebd7;b74 #ejf4 ,moratorium on towing vessel inspection user fees ,notwithstanding section #igja of title #ca1 ,united ,states ,code1 and section #baaj of title #df of such ,code1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating may not charge an inspection fee for a towing vessel that has a certificate of inspection issued under subchapter ,m of chapter ,i of title #df1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7or any successor regulation71 and that uses the ,towing ,safety ,management ,system option for compliance with such subchapter1 until-- 7#a7 the completion of the review required under section #hae of the ,frank ,lo,biondo ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjah 7#ad ,u4,s4,c4 #idf note2 ,public ,law #aae-bhb72 and 7#b7 the promulgation of regulations to establish specific inspection fees for such vessels4 #ejg4 ,certain historic passenger vessels 7a7 ,report on covered historic vessels 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report evaluating the practicability of the application of section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 to covered historic vessels4 7#b7 ,elements ,the report required under paragraph 7#a7 shall include the following3 7,a7 ,an assessment of the compliance1 as of the date on which the report is submitted in accordance with paragraph 7#a71 of covered historic vessels with section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7,b7 ,an assessment of the safety record of covered historic vessels4 7,c7 ,an assessment of the risk1 if any1 that modifying the requirements under section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 would have on the safety of passengers and crew of covered historic vessels4 7,d7 ,an evaluation of the economic practicability of the compliance of covered historic vessels with such section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 and whether that compliance would meaningfully improve safety of passengers and crew in a manner that is both feasible and economically practicable4 7,e7 ,any recommendations to improve safety in addition to1 or in lieu of1 such section #ccjf7n77#c77v74 7,f7 ,any other recommendations as the ,comptroller ,general determines are appropriate with respect to the applicability of such section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 to covered historic vessels4 7,g7 ,an assessment to determine if covered historic vessels could be provided an exemption to such section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 and what changes to legislative or rulemaking requirements1 including modifications to section #agg4ejj7q7 of title #df1 ,code of ,federal ,regulations 7as in effect on the date of enactment of this ,act71 are necessary to provide the ,commandant the authority to make such exemption or to otherwise provide for such exemption4 7b7 ,consultation ,in completing the report required under subsection 7a77#a71 the ,comptroller ,general may consult with-- 7#a7 the ,national ,transportation ,safety ,board2 7#b7 the ,coast ,guard2 and 7#c7 the maritime industry1 including relevant federally funded research institutions1 nongovernmental organizations1 and academia4 7c7 ,extension for covered historic vessels ,the captain of a port may waive the requirements of section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 with respect to covered historic vessels for not more than #b years after the date of submission of the report required by subsection 7a7 to ,congress in accordance with such subsection4 7d7 ,savings clause ,nothing in this section shall limit any authority available1 as of the date of enactment of this ,act1 to the captain of a port with respect to safety measures or any other authority as necessary for the safety of covered historic vessels4 7e7 ,notice to passengers ,a covered historic vessel that receives a waiver under subsection 7c7 shall1 beginning on the date on which the requirements under section #ccjf7n77#c77v7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 take effect1 provide a prominently displayed notice on its website1 ticket counter1 and each ticket for passengers that the vessel is exempt from meeting the ,coast ,guard safety compliance standards concerning egress as provided for under such section #ccjf7n77#c77v74 7f7 ,definition of covered historic vessels ,in this section1 the term covered historic vessels means the following3 7#a7 ,american ,eagle 7,official ,number #bbiiac74 7#b7 ,angelique 7,official ,number #fbcefb74 7#c7 ,heritage 7,official ,number #fdiefa74 7#d7 ,j ,e ,riggin 7,official ,number #bbfdbb74 7#e7 ,ladona 7,official ,number #bbbbbh74 7#f7 ,lewis ,r4 ,french 7,official ,number #jaehja74 7#g7 ,mary ,day 7,official ,number #bhhgad74 7#h7 ,stephen ,taber 7,official ,number #aaedji74 7#i7 ,victory ,chimes 7,official ,number #acfghd74 7#aj7 ,grace ,bailey 7,official ,number #jheged74 7#aa7 ,mercantile 7,official ,number #badchh74 7#ab7 ,mistress 7,official ,number #ejijjd74 #ejh4 ,coast ,guard digital registration ,section #abcjd7;a7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by striking shall be pocketsized12 and 7#b7 by striking 1 and may be valid and inserting and may be in hard copy or digital form4 ,the certificate shall be valid4 #eji4 ,responses to safety recommendations 7a7 ,in general ,chapter #g of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #gba4 ,responses to safety recommendations 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ij days after the submission to the ,commandant of a recommendation and supporting justification by the ,national ,transportation ,safety ,board relating to transportation safety1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,national ,transportation ,safety ,board a written response to the recommendation1 which shall include whether the ,commandant-- 7#a7 concurs with the recommendation2 7#b7 partially concurs with the recommendation2 or 7#c7 does not concur with the recommendation4 7b7 ,explanation of concurrence ,a response under subsection 7a7 shall include-- 7#a7 with respect to a recommendation with which the ,commandant concurs1 an explanation of the actions the ,commandant intends to take to implement such recommendation2 7#b7 with respect to a recommendation with which the ,commandant partially concurs1 an explanation of the actions the ,commandant intends to take to implement the portion of such recommendation with which the ,commandant partially concurs2 and 7#c7 with respect to a recommendation with which the ,commandant does not concur1 the reasons the ,commandant does not concur4 7c7 ,failure ,to respond ,if the ,national ,transportation ,safety ,board has not received the written response required under subsection 7a7 by the end of the time period described in that subsection1 the ,national ,transportation ,safety ,board shall notify the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives that such response has not been received4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #g of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #gba4 ,responses to safety recommendations4 4 #eaj4 ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states study and report on the ,coast ,guard's oversight of third-party organizations 7a7 ,in general ,the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall initiate a review1 not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act that assesses the ,coast ,guard's oversight of third-party organizations4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required under subsection 7a7 shall analyze the following3 7#a7 ,coast ,guard utilization of third-party organizations in its prevention mission1 and the extent the ,coast ,guard plans to increase such use to enhance prevention mission performance1 including resource utilization and specialized expertise4 7#b7 ,the extent the ,coast ,guard has assessed the potential risks and benefits of using third-party organizations to support prevention mission activities4 7#c7 ,the extent the ,coast ,guard provides oversight of third-party organizations authorized to support prevention mission activities4 7c7 ,report ,the ,comptroller ,general shall submit the results from this study not later than #a year after initiating the review to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives4 ,b ,other matters #eba4 ,definition of a stateless vessel ,section #gjejb7;d77#a7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in subparagraph 7,b71 by striking and after the semicolon2 7#b7 in subparagraph 7,c71 by striking the period at the end and inserting 2 and2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following new subparagraph3 7,d7 a vessel aboard which no individual1 on request of an officer of the ,united ,states authorized to enforce applicable provisions of ,united ,states law1 claims to be the master or is identified as the individual in charge and that has no other claim of nationality or registry under paragraph 7#a7 or 7#b7 of subsection 7e74 4 #ebb4 ,report on enforcement of coastwise laws ,not later than #a year of the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to ,congress a report describing any changes to the enforcement of chapters #aba and #eea of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 as a result of the amendments to section #d7;a77#a7 of the ,outer ,continental ,shelf ,lands ,act 7#dc ,u4,s4,c4 #accc7;a77#a77 made by section #iejc of the ,william ,m4 7,mac7 ,thornberry ,national ,defense ,authorization ,act for ,fiscal ,year #bjba 7,public ,law #aaf-bhc74 #ebc4 ,study on multi-level supply chain security strategy of the ,department of ,homeland ,security 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall initiate a study that assesses the efforts of the ,department of ,homeland ,security with respect to securing vessels and maritime cargo bound for the ,united ,states from national security related risks and threats4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required under subsection 7a7 shall assess the following3 7#a7 ,programs that comprise the maritime strategy of the ,department of ,homeland ,security for securing vessels and maritime cargo bound for the ,united ,states1 and the extent that such programs cover the critical components of the global supply chain4 7#b7 ,the extent to which the components of the ,department of ,homeland ,security responsible for maritime security issues have implemented leading practices in collaboration4 7#c7 ,the extent to which the ,department of ,homeland ,security has assessed the effectiveness of its maritime security strategy4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after initiating the study under subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit the results from the study to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives4 #ebd4 ,study to modernize the merchant mariner licensing and documentation system 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ij days after the date of enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,senate1 and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure and the ,committee on ,appropriations of the ,house of ,representatives1 a report on the financial1 human1 and information technology infrastructure resources needed to establish an electronic merchant mariner licensing and documentation system4 7b7 ,legislative and regulatory suggestions ,the report described in paragraph 7#a7 shall include recommendations for such legislative or administrative actions as the ,commandant determines necessary to establish the electronic merchant mariner licensing and documentation system described in subsection 7a7 as soon as possible4 #ebe4 ,study and report on development and maintenance of mariner records database 7a7 ,study 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary1 in coordination with the ,commandant and the ,administrator of the ,maritime ,administration and the ,commander of the ,united ,states ,transportation ,command1 shall conduct a study on the potential benefits and feasibility of developing and maintaining a ,coast ,guard database that-- 7,a7 contains records with respect to each credentialed mariner1 including credential validity1 drug and alcohol testing results1 and information on any final adjudicated agency action involving a credentialed mariner or regarding any involvement in a marine casualty2 and 7,b7 maintains such records in a manner such that data can be readily accessed by the ,federal ,government for the purpose of assessing workforce needs and for the purpose of the economic and national security of the ,united ,states4 7#b7 ,elements ,the study required under paragraph 7#a7 shall-- 7,a7 include an assessment of the resources1 including information technology1 and authorities necessary to develop and maintain the database described in such paragraph2 and 7,b7 specifically address the protection of the privacy interests of any individuals whose information may be contained within the database1 which shall include limiting access to the database or having access to the database be monitored by1 or accessed through1 a member of the ,coast ,guard4 7b7 ,report ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 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 under subsection 7a71 including findings1 conclusions1 and recommendations4 7c7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,credentialed mariner ,the term credentialed mariner means an individual with a merchant mariner license1 certificate1 or document that the ,secretary is authorized to issue pursuant to title #df1 ,united ,states ,code4 7#b7 ,secretary ,the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of the ,department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating4 ,,vi ,sexual assault and sexual harassment prevention and response #fja4 ,definitions 7a7 ,in general ,section #baja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 by redesignating paragraphs 7#de7 through 7#ed7 as paragraphs 7#dg7 through 7#ef71 respectively2 and 7#b7 by inserting after paragraph 7#dd7 the following3 7#de7 sexual assault means any form of abuse or contact as defined in chapter #aji;,a of title #ah1 or a substantially similar offense under a ,state1 local1 or ,tribal law4 7#df7 sexual harassment means any of the following3 7,a7 ,conduct towards an individual 7which may have been by the individual's supervisor1 a supervisor in another area1 a coworker1 or another credentialed mariner7 that-- 7i7 involves unwelcome sexual advances1 requests for sexual favors1 or deliberate or repeated offensive comments or gestures of a sexual nature1 when-- 7,i7 submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment1 pay1 career1 benefits1 or entitlements of the individual2 7,,ii7 any submission to1 or rejection of1 such conduct by the individual is used as a basis for decisions affecting the individual's job1 pay1 career1 benefits1 or entitlements2 or 7,,iii7 such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with the individual's work performance or creates an intimidating1 hostile1 or offensive working environment2 and 7ii7 is so severe or pervasive that a reasonable person would perceive1 and the individual does perceive1 the environment as hostile or offensive4 7,b7 ,any use or condonation by any person in a supervisory or command position of any form of sexual behavior to control1 influence1 or affect the career1 pay1 or job of an individual who is a subordinate to the person4 7,c7 ,any intentional or repeated unwelcome verbal comment or gesture of a sexual nature towards or about an individual by the individual's supervisor1 a supervisor in another area1 a coworker1 or another credentialed mariner4 4 7b7 ,report ,the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives and the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate a report describing any changes the ,commandant may propose to the definitions added by the amendments in subsection 7a74 7c7 ,conforming amendments 7#a7 ,section #baac7c7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking section #baja7ea77;,a7 and inserting section #baja7ec77;,a74 7#b7 ,section #daje of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7,a7 in subsections 7b77#a7 and 7c71 by striking section #baja7ea7 each place it appears and inserting section #baja7ec72 and 7,b7 in subsection 7d71 by striking section #baja7ea77;,a7 and inserting section #baja7ec77;,a74 7#c7 ,section #aaca7;a77#a77;,e7 of title #di1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking section #baja7df7 and inserting #aaf4 #fjb4 ,convicted sex offender as grounds for denial 7a7 ,in general ,chapter #ge of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #geaa4 ,convicted sex offender as grounds for denial 7a7 ,sexual abuse ,a license1 certificate of registry1 or merchant mariner's document authorized to be issued under this part shall be denied to an individual who has been convicted of a sexual offense prohibited under chapter #aji;,a of title #ah1 except for subsection 7b7 of section #bbdd of title #ah1 or a substantially similar offense under a ,state1 local1 or ,tribal law4 7b7 ,abusive sexual contact ,a license1 certificate of registry1 or merchant mariner's document authorized to be issued under this part may be denied to an individual who within #e years before applying for the license1 certificate1 or document1 has been convicted of a sexual offense prohibited under subsection 7b7 of section #bbdd of title #ah1 or a substantially similar offense under a ,state1 local1 or ,tribal law4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #ge of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #geaa4 ,convicted sex offender as grounds for denial44 #fjc4 ,accommodation2 notices ,section #aaaja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in subsection 7a7-- 7,a7 in paragraph 7#c71 by striking 2 and and inserting a semicolon2 7,b7 in paragraph 7#d71 by striking the period at the end and inserting 2 and2 and 7,c7 by adding at the end the following3 7#e7 each crew berthing area shall be equipped with information regarding-- 7,a7 vessel owner or company policies prohibiting sexual assault1 sexual harassment1 retaliation1 and drug and alcohol use2 and 7,b7 procedures and resources to report allegations of sexual assault and sexual harassment1 including information-- 7i7 on the contact information1 website address1 and mobile application of the ,coast ,guard ,investigative ,services and the ,coast ,guard ,national ,command ,center1 in order to report allegations of sexual assault or sexual harassment2 7ii7 on vessel owner or company procedures to report violations of company policy and access resources2 7iii7 on resources provided by outside organizations such as sexual assault hotlines and counseling2 7iv7 on the retention period for surveillance video recording after an incident of sexual harassment or sexual assault is reported2 and 7v7 on additional items specified in regulations issued by1 and at the discretion of1 the ,secretary4 2 and 7#b7 in subsection 7d71 by adding at the end the following3 ,in each washing place in a visible location1 there shall be information regarding procedures and resources to report alleged sexual assault and sexual harassment upon the vessel1 and vessel owner or company policies prohibiting sexual assault and sexual harassment1 retaliation1 and drug and alcohol use44 #fjd4 ,protection against discrimination ,section #baad7;a7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in paragraph 7#a7-- 7,a7 by redesignating subparagraphs 7,b7 through 7,g7 as subparagraphs 7,c7 through 7,h71 respectively2 and 7,b7 by inserting after subparagraph 7,a7 the following3 7,b7 the seaman in good faith has reported or is about to report to the vessel owner1 ,coast ,guard1 or other appropriate ,federal agency or department sexual harassment or sexual assault against the seaman or knowledge of sexual harassment or sexual assault against another seaman2 2 and 7#b7 in paragraphs 7#b7 and 7#c71 by striking paragraph 7#a77;,b7 each place it appears and inserting paragraph 7#a77;,c74 #fje4 ,alcohol at sea 7a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant shall seek to enter into an agreement with the ,national ,academy of ,sciences not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act under which the ,national ,academy of ,sciences shall prepare an assessment to determine safe levels of alcohol consumption and possession by crew members aboard vessels of the ,united ,states engaged in commercial service1 except when such possession is associated with the commercial sale to individuals aboard the vessel who are not crew members4 7b7 ,assessment ,the assessment under this section shall-- 7#a7 take into account the safety and security of every individual on the vessel2 7#b7 take into account reported incidences of sexual harassment or sexual assault1 as defined in section #baja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code2 and 7#c7 provide any appropriate recommendations for any changes to laws1 including regulations1 or employer policies4 7c7 ,submission ,upon completion of the assessment under this section1 the ,national ,academy of ,sciences shall submit the assessment to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate1 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives1 the ,commandant1 and the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating4 7d7 ,regulations 7#a7 ,the ,commandant-- 7,a7 shall review the findings and recommendations of the assessment under this section by not later than #ahj days after receiving the assessment under subsection 7c72 and 7,b7 taking into account the safety and security of every individual on vessels of the ,united ,states engaged in commercial service1 may issue regulations relating to alcohol consumption on such vessels4 7e7 ,report required ,if1 by the date that is #b years after the receipt of the assessment under subsection 7c71 the ,commandant does not issue regulations under subsection 7d71 the ,commandant shall provide a report by such date to the appropriate committees of ,congress-- 7#a7 regarding the rationale for not issuing such regulations2 and 7#b7 providing other recommendations as necessary to ensure safety at sea4 #fjf4 ,sexual harassment or sexual assault as grounds for suspension and revocation 7a7 ,in general ,chapter #gg of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting after section #ggjd the following3 #ggjd;a4 ,sexual harassment or sexual assault as grounds for suspension and revocation 7a7 ,sexual harassment ,if it is shown at a hearing under this chapter that a holder of a license1 certificate of registry1 or merchant mariner's document issued under this part1 within #aj years before the beginning of the suspension and revocation proceedings1 is the subject of a substantiated claim of sexual harassment1 then the license1 certificate of registry1 or merchant mariner's document shall be suspended or revoked4 7b7 ,sexual assault ,if it is shown at a hearing under this chapter that a holder of a license1 certificate of registry1 or merchant mariner's document issued under this part1 within #bj years before the beginning of the suspension and revocation proceedings1 is the subject of a substantiated claim of sexual assault1 then the license1 certificate of registry1 or merchant mariner's document shall be revoked4 7c7 ,substantiated claim 7#a7 ,in general ,in this section1 the term substantiated claim means-- 7,a7 a legal proceeding or agency action in any administrative proceeding that determines the individual committed sexual harassment or sexual assault in violation of any ,federal1 ,state1 local1 or ,tribal law or regulation and for which all appeals have been exhausted1 as applicable2 or 7,b7 a determination after an investigation by the ,coast ,guard that it is more likely than not that the individual committed sexual harassment or sexual assault as defined in section #baja1 if the determination affords appropriate due process rights to the subject of the investigation4 7#b7 ,investigation by the ,coast ,guard ,an investigation by the ,coast ,guard under paragraph 7#a77;,b7 shall include evaluation of the following materials that shall be provided to the ,coast ,guard3 7,a7 ,any inquiry or determination made by the employer of the individual as to whether the individual committed sexual harassment or sexual assault4 7,b7 ,upon request from the ,coast ,guard1 any investigative materials1 documents1 records1 or files in the possession of an employer or former employer of the individual that are related to the claim of sexual harassment or sexual assault by the individual4 7#c7 ,additional review ,a license1 certificate of registry1 or merchant mariner's document shall not be suspended or revoked under subsection 7a7 or 7b71 unless the substantiated claim is reviewed and affirmed1 in accordance with the applicable definition in section #baja1 by an administrative law judge at the same suspension or revocation hearing under this chapter described in subsection 7a7 or 7b71 as applicable4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #gg of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section #ggjd the following3 #ggjd;a4 ,sexual harassment or sexual assault as grounds for suspension or revocation4 4 #fjg4 ,surveillance requirements 7a7 ,in general ,part ,b of subtitle ,,ii of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #di ,oceangoing nonpassenger commercial vessels #dija4 ,surveillance requirements 7a7 ,applicability 7#a7 ,in general ,the requirements in this section shall apply to vessels engaged in commercial service that do not carry passengers and are any of the following3 7,a7 ,a documented vessel with overnight accommodations for at least #aj persons on board that-- 7i7 is on a voyage of at least #fjj miles and crosses seaward of the boundary line2 or 7ii7 is at least #bd meters 7#gi feet7 in overall length and required to have a load line under chapter #ea4 7,b7 ,a documented vessel on an international voyage that is of-- 7i7 at least #ejj gross tons as measured under section #adejb2 or 7ii7 an alternate tonnage measured under section #adcjb as prescribed by the ,secretary under section #adajd4 7,c7 ,a vessel with overnight accommodations for at least #aj persons on board that are operating for no less than #gb hours on waters superjacent to the outer ,continental ,shelf 7as defined in section #b7;a7 of the ,outer ,continental ,shelf ,lands ,act 7#dc ,u4,s4,c4 #acca7;a774 7#b7 ,exception ,notwithstanding paragraph 7#a71 the requirements in this section shall not apply to any fishing vessel1 fish processing vessel1 or fish tender vessel4 7b7 ,requirement for maintenance of video surveillance system ,each vessel to which this section applies shall maintain a video surveillance system in accordance with this section4 7c7 ,placement of video and audio surveillance equipment 7#a7 ,in general ,the owner of a vessel to which this section applies shall install video and audio surveillance equipment aboard the vessel not later than #b years after the date of enactment of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb1 or during the next scheduled drydock1 whichever is later4 7#b7 ,locations ,video and audio surveillance equipment shall be placed in passageways onto which doors from staterooms open4 ,such equipment shall be placed in a manner ensuring the visibility of every door in each such passageway4 7d7 ,notice of video and audio surveillance ,the owner of a vessel to which this section applies shall provide clear and conspicuous signs on board the vessel notifying the crew of the presence of video and audio surveillance equipment4 7e7 ,access to video and audio records 7#a7 ,in general ,the owner of a vessel to which this section applies shall provide to any ,federal1 ,state1 or other law enforcement official performing official duties in the course and scope of a criminal or marine safety investigation1 upon request1 a copy of all records of video and audio surveillance that the official believes is relevant to the investigation4 7#b7 ,civil actions ,except as proscribed by law enforcement authorities or court order1 the owner of a vessel to which this section applies shall1 upon written request1 provide to any individual or the individual's legal representative a copy of all records of video and audio surveillance-- 7,a7 in which the individual is a subject of the video and audio surveillance2 7,b7 if the request is in conjunction with a legal proceeding or investigation2 and 7,c7 that may provide evidence of any sexual harassment or sexual assault incident in a civil action4 7#c7 ,limited access ,the owner of a vessel to which this section applies shall ensure that access to records of video and audio surveillance is limited to the purposes described in this section and not used as part of a labor action against a crew member or employment dispute unless used in a criminal or civil action4 7f7 ,retention requirements ,the owner of a vessel to which this section applies shall retain all records of audio and video surveillance for not less than #d years after the footage is obtained4 ,any video and audio surveillance found to be associated with an alleged incident of sexual harassment or sexual assault shall be retained by such owner for not less than #aj years from the date of the alleged incident4 ,the ,federal ,bureau of ,investigation and the ,coast ,guard are authorized access to all records of video and audio surveillance relevant to an investigation into criminal conduct4 7g7 ,personnel training ,a vessel owner1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer 7in this subsection referred to as the company7 shall provide training for all individuals employed by the company for the purpose of responding to incidents of sexual assault or sexual harassment1 including-- 7#a7 such training to ensure the individuals-- 7,a7 retain audio and visual records and other evidence objectively2 and 7,b7 act impartially without influence from the company or others2 and 7#b7 training on applicable ,federal1 ,state1 ,tribal1 and local laws and regulations regarding sexual assault and sexual harassment investigations and reporting requirements4 7h7 ,definition of owner ,in this section1 the term owner means the owner1 charterer1 managing operator1 master1 or other individual in charge of a vessel4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis of subtitle ,,ii at the beginning of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding after the item relating to chapter #dg the following3 ,chapter #di--,oceangoing nonpassenger commercial vessels4 #fjh4 ,master key control 7a7 ,in general ,chapter #ca of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #cajf4 ,master key control system 7a7 ,in general ,the owner of a vessel subject to inspection under section #ccja shall-- 7#a7 ensure that such vessel is equipped with a vessel master key control system1 manual or electronic1 which provides controlled access to all copies of the vessel's master key of which access shall only be available to the individuals described in paragraph 7#b72 7#b7 7,a7 establish a list of all crew members1 identified by position1 allowed to access and use the master key2 and 7,b7 maintain such list upon the vessel within owner records and include such list in the vessel safety management system under section #cbjc7;a77#f72 7#c7 record in a log book1 which may be electronic and shall be included in the safety management system under section #cbjc7;a77#f71 information on all access and use of the vessel's master key1 including-- 7,a7 dates and times of access2 7,b7 the room or location accessed2 and 7,c7 the name and rank of the crew member that used the master key2 and 7#d7 make the list under paragraph 7#b7 and the log book under paragraph 7#c7 available upon request to any agent of the ,federal ,bureau of ,investigation1 any member of the ,coast ,guard1 and any law enforcement officer performing official duties in the course and scope of an investigation4 7b7 ,prohibited use ,a crew member not included on the list described in subsection 7a77#b7 shall not have access to or use the master key unless in an emergency and shall immediately notify the master and owner of the vessel following access to or use of such key4 7c7 ,penalty ,any crew member who violates subsection 7b7 shall be liable to the ,united ,states ,government for a civil penalty of not more than #a1jjj1 and may be subject to suspension or revocation under section #ggjc4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #ca of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #cajf4 ,master key control system44 #fji4 ,safety management systems ,section #cbjc of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in subsection 7a7-- 7,a7 by redesignating paragraphs 7#e7 and 7#f7 as paragraphs 7#g7 and 7#h71 respectively2 and 7,b7 by inserting after paragraph 7#d7 the following3 7#e7 with respect to sexual harassment and sexual assault1 procedures and annual training requirements for all responsible persons and vessels to which this chapter applies on-- 7,a7 prevention2 7,b7 bystander intervention2 7,c7 reporting2 7,d7 response2 and 7,e7 investigation2 7#f7 the list required under section #cajf7;a77#b7 and the log book required under section #cajf7;a77#c72 2 7#b7 by redesignating subsections 7b7 and 7c7 as subsections 7d7 and 7e71 respectively2 and 7#c7 by inserting after subsection 7a7 the following3 7b7 ,procedures and training requirements ,in prescribing regulations for the procedures and training requirements described in subsection 7a77#e71 such procedures and requirements shall be consistent with the requirements to report sexual harassment or sexual assault under section #ajajd4 7c7 ,audits 7#a7 ,in general ,upon discovery of a failure of a responsible person or vessel to comply with a requirement under section #ajajd during an audit of a safety management system or from other sources of information acquired by the ,coast ,guard 7including an audit or systematic review under section #ajajd7;g771 the ,secretary shall audit the safety management system of a vessel under this section to determine if there is a failure to comply with any other requirement under section #ajajd4 7#b7 ,certificates 7,a7 ,suspension ,during an audit of a safety management system of a vessel required under paragraph 7#a71 the ,secretary may suspend the ,safety ,management ,certificate issued for the vessel under section #cbje and issue a separate ,safety ,management ,certificate for the vessel to be in effect for a #c-month period beginning on the date of the issuance of such separate certificate4 7,b7 ,revocation ,at the conclusion of an audit of a safety management system required under paragraph 7#a71 the ,secretary shall revoke the ,safety ,management ,certificate issued for the vessel under section #cbje if the ,secretary determines-- 7i7 that the holder of the ,safety ,management ,certificate knowingly1 or repeatedly1 failed to comply with section #ajajd2 or 7ii7 other failure of the safety management system resulted in the failure to comply with such section4 7#c7 ,documents of compliance 7,a7 ,in general ,following an audit of the safety management system of a vessel required under paragraph 7#a71 the ,secretary may audit the safety management system of the responsible person for the vessel4 7,b7 ,suspension ,during an audit under subparagraph 7,a71 the ,secretary may suspend the ,document of ,compliance issued to the responsible person under section #cbje and issue a separate ,document of ,compliance to such person to be in effect for a #c-month period beginning on the date of the issuance of such separate document4 7,c7 ,revocation ,at the conclusion of an assessment or an audit of a safety management system under subparagraph 7,a71 the ,secretary shall revoke the ,document of ,compliance issued to the responsible person if the ,secretary determines-- 7i7 that the holder of the ,document of ,compliance knowingly1 or repeatedly1 failed to comply with section #ajajd2 or 7ii7 that other failure of the safety management system resulted in the failure to comply with such section4 4 #faj4 ,requirement to report sexual assault and harassment ,section #ajajd of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking subsections 7a7 and 7b7 and inserting the following3 7a7 ,mandatory reporting by crew members 7#a7 ,in general ,a crew member of a documented vessel shall report to the ,commandant in accordance with subsection 7c7 any complaint or incident of sexual harassment or sexual assault of which the crew member has firsthand or personal knowledge4 7#b7 ,penalty ,except as provided in paragraph 7#c71 a crew member with firsthand or personal knowledge of a sexual assault or sexual harassment incident on a documented vessel who knowingly fails to report in compliance with paragraph 7#a7 is liable to the ,united ,states ,government for a civil penalty of not more than #be1jjj4 7#c7 ,amnesty ,a crew member who knowingly fails to make the required reporting under paragraph 7#a7 shall not be subject to the penalty described in paragraph 7#b7 if the complaint is shared in confidence with the crew member directly from the individual who experienced the sexual harassment or sexual assault or the crew member is a victim advocate as defined in section #djjjb7;a7 of the ,violence ,against ,women ,act of #aiid 7#cd ,u4,s4,c4 #abbia7;a774 7b7 ,mandatory reporting by vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer 7#a7 ,in general ,a vessel owner1 master1 or managing operator of a documented vessel or the employer of a seafarer on that vessel shall report to the ,commandant in accordance with subsection 7c7 any complaint or incident of sexual harassment or sexual assault involving a crew member in violation of employer policy or law of which such vessel owner or managing operator is made aware4 ,such reporting shall include results of any investigation into the incident1 if applicable1 and any action taken against the offending crew member4 7#b7 ,penalty ,a vessel owner1 master1 or managing operator of a documented vessel or the employer of a seafarer on that vessel who knowingly fails to report in compliance with paragraph 7#a7 is liable to the ,united ,states ,government for a civil penalty of not more than #ej1jjj4 7c7 ,reporting procedures 7#a7 ,timing 7,a7 ,reports by crew members ,a report required under subsection 7a7 shall be made as soon as practicable1 but not later than #aj days after the individual develops firsthand or personal knowledge of the sexual assault or sexual harassment incident1 to the ,commandant by the fastest telecommunications channel available4 7,b7 ,reports by vessel owners1 masters1 managing operators1 or employers ,a report required under subsection 7b7 shall be made immediately after the vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of the seafarer gains knowledge of a sexual assault or sexual harassment incident by the fastest telecommunications channel available4 ,such report shall be made to the ,commandant and the appropriate officer or agency of the government of the country in whose waters the incident occurs4 7#b7 ,contents ,a report required under subsection 7a7 or 7b7 shall include1 to the best of the knowledge of the individual making the report-- 7,a7 the name1 official position or role in relation to the vessel1 and contact information of the individual making the report2 7,b7 the name and official number of the documented vessel2 7,c7 the time and date of the incident2 7,d7 the geographic position or location of the vessel when the incident occurred2 and 7,e7 a brief description of the alleged sexual harassment or sexual assault being reported4 7#c7 ,receiving reports and collection of information 7,a7 ,receiving reports ,with respect to reports submitted under this subsection to the ,coast ,guard1 the ,commandant-- 7i7 may establish additional reporting procedures1 including procedures for receiving reports through-- 7,i7 a telephone number that is continuously manned at all times2 and 7,,ii7 an email address that is continuously monitored2 and 7ii7 shall use procedures that include preserving evidence in such reports and providing emergency service referrals4 7,b7 ,collection of information ,after receiving a report under this subsection1 the ,commandant shall collect information related to the identity of each alleged victim1 alleged perpetrator1 and witness identified in the report through a means designed to protect1 to the extent practicable1 the personal identifiable information of such individuals4 7d7 ,subpoena authority 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,commandant may compel the testimony of witnesses and the production of any evidence by subpoena to determine compliance with this section4 7#b7 ,jurisdictional limits ,the jurisdictional limits of a subpoena issued under this section are the same as1 and are enforceable in the same manner as1 subpoenas issued under chapter #fc of this title4 7e7 ,company after-,action summary ,a vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer that makes a report under subsection 7b71 or becomes aware of a report made under subsection 7a7 that involves an individual employed by the owner1 master1 operator1 or employer at the time of the sexual assault or sexual harassment incident1 shall-- 7#a7 submit to the ,commandant a document with detailed information to describe the actions taken by the vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer after it became aware of the sexual assault or sexual harassment incident2 and 7#b7 make such submission not later than #aj days after the vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer made the report under subsection 7b71 or became aware of a report made under subsection 7a7 that involves an individual employed by the owner1 master1 operator1 or employer at the time of the sexual assault or sexual harassment incident4 7f7 ,required company records ,a vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer shall-- 7#a7 submit to the ,commandant copies of all records1 including documents1 files1 recordings1 statements1 reports1 investigatory materials1 findings1 and any other materials requested by the ,commandant related to the claim of sexual assault or sexual harassment2 and 7#b7 make such submission not later than #ad days after-- 7,a7 the vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer submitted a report under subsection 7b72 or 7,b7 the vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer acquired knowledge of a report made under subsection 7a7 that involved individuals employed by the vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer4 7g7 ,investigatory audit ,the ,commandant shall periodically perform an audit or other systematic review of the submissions made under this section to determine if there were any failures to comply with the requirements of this section4 7h7 ,civil penalty ,a vessel owner1 master1 managing operator1 or employer of a seafarer that fails to comply with subsection 7e7 or 7f7 is liable to the ,united ,states ,government for a civil penalty of #ej1jjj for each day a failure continues4 7i7 ,applicability2 regulations 7#a7 ,effective date ,the requirements of this section take effect on the date of enactment of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb4 7#b7 ,regulations ,the ,commandant may issue regulations to implement the requirements of this section4 7#c7 ,reports ,any report required to be made to the ,commandant under this section shall be made to the ,coast ,guard ,national ,command ,center1 until regulations establishing other reporting procedures are issued4 4 #faa4 ,civil actions for personal injury or death of seamen 7a7 ,personal injury to or death of seamen ,section #cjajd of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting 1 including an injury resulting from sexual assault or sexual harassment 7as such terms are defined in section #baja71 after in the course of employment4 7b7 ,time limit on bringing maritime action ,section #cjajf of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in the section heading1 by striking for personal injury or death2 7#b7 by striking ,except as otherwise and inserting the following3 7a7 ,in general ,except as otherwise 2 and 7#c7 by adding at the end the following3 7b7 ,extension for sexual offense ,a civil action under subsection 7a7 arising out of a maritime tort for a claim of sexual harassment or sexual assault1 as such terms are defined in section #baja1 shall be brought not later than #e years after the cause of action for a claim of sexual harassment or sexual assault arose4 4 7c7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #cja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking the item relating to section #cjajf and inserting the following3 #cjajf4 ,time limit on bringing maritime action4 4 #fab4 ,administration of sexual assault forensic examination kits 7a7 ,in general ,subchapter ,,iv of chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #efd4 ,administration of sexual assault forensic examination kits 7a7 ,sexual assault forensic exam procedure 7#a7 ,in general ,before embarking on any prescheduled voyage1 a ,coast ,guard vessel shall have in place a written operating procedure that ensures that an embarked victim of sexual assault shall have access to a sexual assault forensic examination-- 7,a7 as soon as possible after the victim requests an examination2 and 7,b7 that is treated with the same level of urgency as emergency medical care4 7#b7 ,requirements ,the written operating procedure required by paragraph 7#a71 shall1 at a minimum1 account for-- 7,a7 the health1 safety1 and privacy of a victim of sexual assault2 7,b7 the proximity of ashore or afloat medical facilities1 including coordination as necessary with the ,department of ,defense1 including other military departments 7as defined in section #aja of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code72 7,c7 the availability of aeromedical evacuation2 7,d7 the operational capabilities of the vessel concerned2 7,e7 the qualifications of medical personnel onboard2 7,f7 coordination with law enforcement and the preservation of evidence2 7,g7 the means of accessing a sexual assault forensic examination and medical care with a restricted report of sexual assault2 7,h7 the availability of nonprescription pregnancy prophylactics2 and 7,i7 other unique military considerations4 4 7b7 ,study 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall seek to enter into an agreement with the ,national ,academy of ,sciences under which the ,national ,academy of ,sciences shall conduct a study to assess the feasibility of the development of a self-administered sexual assault forensic examination for use by victims of sexual assault onboard a vessel at sea4 7#b7 ,elements ,the study under paragraph 7#a7 shall-- 7,a7 take into account-- 7i7 the safety and security of the alleged victim of sexual assault2 7ii7 the ability to properly identify1 document1 and preserve any evidence relevant to the allegation of sexual assault2 and 7iii7 the applicable criminal procedural laws relating to authenticity1 relevance1 preservation of evidence1 chain of custody1 and any other matter relating to evidentiary admissibility2 and 7,b7 provide any appropriate recommendation for changes to existing laws1 regulations1 or employer policies4 7#c7 ,report ,upon completion of the study under paragraph 7#a71 the ,national ,academy of ,sciences shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate1 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives1 and the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating a report on the findings of the study4 7c7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for subchapter ,,iv of chapter #e of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #efd4 ,administration of sexual assault forensic examination kits4 4 #fac4 ,reports to ,congress 7a7 ,in general ,chapter #aja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #ajaje4 ,reports to ,congress ,not later than #a year after the date of enactment of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb1 and on an annual basis thereafter1 the ,commandant shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report to include-- 7#a7 the number of reports received under section #ajajd2 7#b7 the number of penalties issued under such section2 7#c7 the number of open investigations under such section1 completed investigations under such section1 and the outcomes of such open or completed investigations2 7#d7 the number of assessments or audits conducted under section #cbjc and the outcome of those assessments or audits2 7#e7 a statistical analysis of compliance with the safety management system criteria under section #cbjc2 7#f7 the number of credentials denied or revoked due to sexual harassment1 sexual assault1 or related offenses2 and 7#g7 recommendations to support efforts of the ,coast ,guard to improve investigations and oversight of sexual harassment and sexual assault in the maritime sector1 including funding requirements and legislative change proposals necessary to ensure compliance with title ,,vi of the ,coast ,guard ,authorization ,act of #bjbb and the amendments made by such title4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the analysis for chapter #aja of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #ajaje4 ,reports to ,congress4 4 #fad4 ,policy on requests for permanent changes of station or unit transfers by persons who report being the victim of sexual assault ,not later than #cj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant1 in consultation with the ,director of the ,health1 ,safety1 and ,work ,life ,directorate1 shall issue an interim update to ,coast ,guard policy guidance to allow a member of the ,coast ,guard who has reported being the victim of a sexual assault or any other offense covered by section #ibj1 #ibj;c1 or #icj of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code 7article #abj1 #abj;c1 or #acj of the ,uniform ,code of ,military ,justice7 to request an immediate change of station or a unit transfer4 ,the final policy shall be updated not later than #a year after the date of the enactment of this ,act4 #fae4 ,sex offenses and personnel records ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,commandant shall issue final regulations or policy guidance required to fully implement section #agde of the ,national ,defense ,authorization ,act for ,fiscal ,year #bjad 7,public ,law #aac-ff2 #aj ,u4,s4,c4 #aefa note74 #faf4 ,study on ,coast ,guard oversight and investigations 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ahj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall commence a study to assess the oversight over ,coast ,guard activities1 including investigations1 personnel management1 whistleblower protection1 and other activities carried out by the ,department of ,homeland ,security ,office of ,inspector ,general4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall include the following3 7#a7 ,an analysis of the ability of the ,department of ,homeland ,security ,office of ,inspector ,general to ensure timely1 thorough1 complete1 and appropriate oversight over the ,coast ,guard1 including oversight over both civilian and military activities4 7#b7 ,an assessment of-- 7,a7 the best practices with respect to such oversight2 and 7,b7 the ability of the ,department of ,homeland ,security ,office of ,inspector ,general and the ,commandant to identify and achieve such best practices4 7#c7 ,an analysis of the methods1 standards1 and processes employed by the ,department of ,defense ,office of ,inspector ,general and the ,inspectors ,general of the ,armed ,forces 7as defined in section #aja of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code71 other than the ,coast ,guard1 to conduct oversight and investigation activities4 7#d7 ,an analysis of the methods1 standards1 and processes of the ,department of ,homeland ,security ,office of ,inspector ,general with respect to oversight over the civilian and military activities of the ,coast ,guard1 as compared to the methods1 standards1 and processes described in paragraph 7#c74 7#e7 ,an assessment of the extent to which the ,coast ,guard ,investigative ,service completes investigations or other disciplinary measures after referral of complaints from the ,department of ,homeland ,security ,office of ,inspector ,general4 7#f7 ,a description of the staffing1 expertise1 training1 and other resources of the ,department of ,homeland ,security ,office of ,inspector ,general1 and an assessment as to whether such staffing1 expertise1 training1 and other resources meet the requirements necessary for meaningful1 timely1 and effective oversight over the activities of the ,coast ,guard4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #a year after commencing the study required by subsection 7a71 the ,comptroller ,general shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report on the findings of the study1 including recommendations with respect to oversight over ,coast ,guard activities4 #fag4 ,study on ,special ,victims' ,counsel program 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #cj days after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,secretary of the department in which the ,coast ,guard is operating shall enter into an agreement with a federally funded research and development center for the conduct of a study on-- 7#a7 the ,special ,victims' ,counsel program of the ,coast ,guard2 7#b7 ,coast ,guard investigations of sexual assault offenses for cases in which the subject of the investigation is no longer under jeopardy for the alleged misconduct for reasons including the death of the accused1 a lapse in the statute of limitations for the alleged offense1 and a fully adjudicated criminal trial of the alleged offense in which all appeals have been exhausted2 and 7#c7 legal support and representation provided to members of the ,coast ,guard who are victims of sexual assault1 including in instances in which the accused is a member of the ,army1 ,navy1 ,air ,force1 ,marine ,corps1 or ,space ,force4 7b7 ,elements ,the study required by subsection 7a7 shall assess the following3 7#a7 ,the ,special ,victims' ,counsel program of the ,coast ,guard1 including training1 effectiveness1 capacity to handle the number of cases referred1 and experience with cases involving members of the ,coast ,guard and members of another ,armed ,force 7as defined in section #aja of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code74 7#b7 ,the experience of ,special ,victims' ,counsels in representing members of the ,coast ,guard during a court-martial4 7#c7 ,policies concerning the availability and detailing of ,special ,victims' ,counsels for sexual assault allegations1 in particular such allegations in which the accused is a member of another ,armed ,force 7as defined in section #aja of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code71 and the impact that the cross-service relationship had on-- 7,a7 the competence and sufficiency of services provided to the alleged victim2 and 7,b7 the interaction between-- 7i7 the investigating agency and the ,special ,victims' ,counsels2 and 7ii7 the prosecuting entity and the ,special ,victims' ,counsels4 7#d7 ,training provided to1 or made available for1 ,special ,victims' ,counsels and paralegals with respect to ,department of ,defense processes for conducting sexual assault investigations and ,special ,victims' ,counsel representation of sexual assault victims4 7#e7 ,the ability of ,special ,victims' ,counsels to operate independently without undue influence from third parties1 including the command of the accused1 the command of the victim1 the ,judge ,advocate ,general of the ,coast ,guard1 and the ,deputy ,judge ,advocate ,general of the ,coast ,guard4 7#f7 ,the skill level and experience of ,special ,victims' ,counsels1 as compared to special victims' counsels available to members of the ,army1 ,navy1 ,air ,force1 ,marine ,corps1 and ,space ,force4 7#g7 ,policies regarding access to an alternate ,special ,victims' ,counsel1 if requested by the member of the ,coast ,guard concerned1 and potential improvements for such policies4 7c7 ,report ,not later than #ahj days after entering into an agreement under subsection 7a71 the federally funded research and development center shall submit to the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate and the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure of the ,house of ,representatives a report that includes-- 7#a7 the findings of the study required by that subsection2 7#b7 recommendations to improve the coordination1 training1 and experience of ,special ,victims' ,counsels of the ,coast ,guard so as to improve outcomes for members of the ,coast ,guard who have reported sexual assault2 and 7#c7 any other recommendation the federally funded research and development center considers appropriate4 ,,vii ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,a ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps #gja4 ,definitions ,section #bab7;b7 of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps ,act of #bjjb 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjjb7;b77 is amended by adding at the end the following3 7#h7 ,under ,secretary ,the term ,under ,secretary means the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere4 4 #gjb4 ,requirement for appointments ,section #bba7;c7 of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps ,act of #bjjb 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjba7;c77 is amended by striking may not be given and inserting the following3 8may-- 7#a7 be given only to an individual who is a citizen of the ,united ,states2 and 7#b7 not be given 4 #gjc4 ,repeal of requirement to promote ensigns after #c years of service 7a7 ,in general ,section #bbc of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps ,act of #bjjb 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjbc7 is amended to read as follows3 #bbc4 ,separation of ensigns found not fully qualified ,if an officer in the permanent grade of ensign is at any time found not fully qualified1 the officer's commission shall be revoked and the officer shall be separated from the commissioned service4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the table of contents in section #a of the ,act entitled ,an ,act to reauthorize the ,hydrographic ,services ,improvement ,act of #aiih1 and for other purposes 7,public ,law #ajg-cgb7 is amended by striking the item relating to section #bbc and inserting the following3 ,sec4 #bbc4 ,separation of ensigns found not fully qualified4 4 #gjd4 ,authority to provide awards and decorations 7a7 ,in general ,subtitle ,a of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps ,act of #bjjb 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjja et seq47 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #bbj4 ,awards and decorations ,the ,under ,secretary may provide ribbons1 medals1 badges1 trophies1 and similar devices to members of the commissioned officer corps of the ,administration and to members of other uniformed services for service and achievement in support of the missions of the ,administration4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the table of contents in section #a of the ,act entitled ,an ,act to reauthorize the ,hydrographic ,services ,improvement ,act of #aiih1 and for other purposes 7,public ,law #ajg-cgb7 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section #bai the following3 ,sec4 #bbj4 ,awards and decorations4 4 #gje4 ,retirement and separation 7a7 ,involuntary retirement or separation ,section #bda7;a77#a7 of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps ,act of #bjjb 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjda7;a77#a77 is amended to read as follows3 7#a7 an officer in the permanent grade of captain or commander may-- 7,a7 except as provided by subparagraph 7,b71 be transferred to the retired list2 or 7,b7 if the officer is not qualified for retirement1 be separated from service2 and 4 7b7 ,retirement for age ,section #bdc7;a7 of that ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjdc7;a77 is amended by striking be retired and inserting be retired or separated 7as specified in section #abea7;e7 of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code74 7c7 ,retirement or separation based on years of creditable service ,section #bfa7;a7 of that ,act 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjga7;a77 is amended-- 7#a7 by redesignating paragraphs 7#ag7 through 7#bf7 as paragraphs 7#ah7 through 7#bg71 respectively2 and 7#b7 by inserting after paragraph 7#af7 the following3 7#ag7 ,section #abea7;e71 relating to retirement or separation based on years of creditable service4 4 #gjf4 ,licensure of health-care professionals ,section #bfc of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps ,act of #bjjb 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjgc7 is amended-- 7#a7 by striking ,the ,secretary and inserting 7a7 ,in general4--,the ,secretary2 and 7#b7 by adding at the end the following3 7b7 ,licensure of health-,care professionals 7#a7 ,in general ,notwithstanding any other provision of law regarding the licensure of health-care providers1 a health-care professional described in paragraph 7#b7 may practice the health profession or professions of the health-care professional at any location in any ,state1 the ,district of ,columbia1 or a ,commonwealth1 territory1 or possession of the ,united ,states1 or in any other area within or beyond the jurisdiction of the ,united ,states1 regardless of where the health-care professional or the patient of the health-care professional is located1 if the practice is within the scope of the authorized ,federal duties of the health-care professional4 7#b7 ,health-care professional described ,a health-care professional described in this paragraph is a health-care professional-- 7,a7 who is-- 7i7 a member of the commissioned officer corps of the ,administration2 7ii7 a civilian employee of the ,administration2 7iii7 an officer or employee of the ,public ,health ,service who is assigned or detailed to the ,administration2 or 7iv7 any other health-care professional credentialed and privileged at a ,federal health-care institution or location specially designated by the ,secretary2 and 7,b7 who-- 7i7 has a current license to practice medicine1 osteopathic medicine1 dentistry1 or another health profession2 and 7ii7 is performing authorized duties for the ,administration4 7#c7 ,definitions ,in this subsection3 7,a7 ,health-care professional ,the term health-care professional has the meaning given that term in section #ajid7;e7 of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code1 except that such section shall be applied and administered by substituting #8,secretary of ,commerce' for #8,secretary of ,defense' each place it appears4 7,b7 ,license ,the term license has the meaning given that term in such section4 4 #gjg4 ,improving professional mariner staffing 7a7 ,in general ,subtitle ,e of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration ,commissioned ,officer ,corps ,act of #bjjb 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #cjga et seq47 is amended by adding at the end the following3 #bfi;,b4 ,shore leave for professional mariners 7a7 ,in general ,the ,under ,secretary may prescribe regulations relating to shore leave for professional mariners without regard to the requirements of section #fcje of title #e1 ,united ,states ,code4 7b7 ,requirements ,the regulations prescribed under subsection 7a7 shall-- 7#a7 require that a professional mariner serving aboard an ocean-going vessel be granted a leave of absence of four days per pay period2 and 7#b7 provide that a professional mariner serving in a temporary promotion position aboard a vessel may be paid the difference between the mariner's temporary and permanent rates of pay for leave accrued while serving in the temporary promotion position4 7c7 ,professional mariner defined ,in this section1 the term professional mariner means an individual employed on a vessel of the ,administration who has the necessary expertise to serve in the engineering1 deck1 steward1 electronic technician1 or survey department4 4 7b7 ,clerical amendment ,the table of contents in section #a of the ,act entitled ,an ,act to reauthorize the ,hydrographic ,services ,improvement ,act of #aiih1 and for other purposes 7,public ,law #ajg-cgb7 is amended by inserting after the item relating to section #bfi;,a the following3 ,sec4 #bfi;,b4 ,shore leave for professional mariners4 4 #gjh4 ,legal assistance ,section #ajdd7;a77#c7 of title #aj1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by inserting or the commissioned officer corps of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration after ,public ,health ,service4 #gji4 ,acquisition of aircraft for extreme weather reconnaissance 7a7 ,increased fleet capacity 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere shall acquire adequate aircraft platforms with the necessary observation and modification requirements-- 7,a7 to meet agency-wide air reconnaissance and research mission requirements1 particularly with respect to hurricanes and tropical cyclones1 and also for atmospheric chemistry1 climate1 air quality for public health1 full-season fire weather research and operations1 full-season atmospheric river air reconnaissance observations1 and other mission areas2 and 7,b7 to ensure data and information collected by the aircraft are made available to all users for research and operations purposes4 7#b7 ,contracts ,in carrying out paragraph 7#a71 the ,under ,secretary shall negotiate and enter into #a or more contracts or other agreements1 to the extent practicable and necessary1 with #a or more governmental1 commercial1 or nongovernmental entities4 7#c7 ,derivation of funds ,for each of fiscal years #bjbc through #bjbf1 amounts to support the implementation of paragraphs 7#a7 and 7#b7 shall be derived-- 7,a7 from amounts appropriated to the ,office of ,marine and ,aviation ,operations of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration and available for the purpose of atmospheric river reconnaissance2 and 7,b7 if amounts described in subparagraph 7,a7 are insufficient to support the implementation of paragraphs 7#a7 and 7#b71 from amounts appropriated to that ,office and available for purposes other than atmospheric river reconnaissance4 7b7 ,acquisition of aircraft ,to replace the ,,wp-#c;,d aircraft 7#a7 ,in general ,not later than ,september #cj1 #bjbc1 the ,under ,secretary shall enter into a contract for the acquisition of #f aircraft to replace the ,,wp-#c;,d aircraft that provides for-- 7,a7 the first newly acquired aircraft to be fully operational before the retirement of the last ,,wp-#c;,d aircraft operated by the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration2 and 7,b7 the second newly acquired aircraft to be fully operational not later than #a year after the first such aircraft is required to be fully operational under subparagraph 7,a74 7#b7 ,authorization of appropriations ,there is authorized to be appropriated to the ,under ,secretary #a1hjj1jjj1jjj1 without fiscal year limitation1 for the acquisition of the aircraft under paragraph 7#a74 #gaj4 ,report on professional mariner staffing models 7a7 ,in general ,not later than #ah months after the date of the enactment of this ,act1 the ,comptroller ,general of the ,united ,states shall submit to the committees specified in subsection 7c7 a report on staffing issues relating to professional mariners within the ,office of ,marine and ,aviation ,operations of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration4 7b7 ,elements ,the report required by subsection 7a7 shall include consideration of-- 7#a7 the challenges the ,office of ,marine and ,aviation ,operations faces in recruiting and retaining qualified professional mariners2 7#b7 workforce planning efforts to address those challenges2 and 7#c7 other models or approaches that exist1 or are under consideration1 to provide incentives for the retention of qualified professional mariners4 7c7 ,committees specified ,the committees specified in this subsection are-- 7#a7 the ,committee on ,commerce1 ,science1 and ,transportation of the ,senate2 and 7#b7 the ,committee on ,transportation and ,infrastructure and the ,committee on ,natural ,resources of the ,house of ,representatives4 7d7 ,professional mariner defined ,in this section1 the term professional mariner means an individual employed on a vessel of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration who has the necessary expertise to serve in the engineering1 deck1 steward1 or survey department4 ,b ,other ,matters #gaa4 ,conveyance of certain property of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration in ,juneau1 ,alaska 7a7 ,definitions ,in this section3 7#a7 ,city ,the term ,city means the ,city and ,borough of ,juneau1 ,alaska4 7#b7 ,master ,plan ,the term ,master ,plan means the ,juneau ,small ,cruise ,ship ,infrastructure ,master ,plan released by the ,docks and ,harbors ,board and ,port of ,juneau for the ,city and dated ,march #bjba4 7#c7 ,property ,the term ,property means the parcel of real property consisting of approximately #b4d acres1 including tidelands1 owned by the ,united ,states and under administrative custody and control of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration and located at #bej ,egan ,drive1 ,juneau1 ,alaska1 including any improvements thereon that are not authorized or required by another provision of law to be conveyed to a specific individual or entity4 7#d7 ,secretary ,the term ,secretary means the ,secretary of ,commerce1 acting through the ,under ,secretary of ,commerce for ,oceans and ,atmosphere and the ,administrator of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration4 7b7 ,conveyance authorized 7#a7 ,in general ,the ,secretary may convey1 at fair market value1 all right1 title1 and interest of the ,united ,states in and to the ,property1 subject to subsection 7c7 and the requirements of this section4 7#b7 ,termination of authority ,the authority provided by paragraph 7#a7 shall terminate on the date that is #c years after the date of the enactment of this ,act4 7c7 ,right of first refusal ,the ,city shall have the right of first refusal with respect to the purchase1 at fair market value1 of the ,property4 7d7 ,survey ,the exact acreage and legal description of the ,property shall be determined by a survey satisfactory to the ,secretary4 7e7 ,condition2 quitclaim deed ,if the ,property is conveyed under this section1 the ,property shall be conveyed-- 7#a7 in an as is1 where is condition2 and 7#b7 via a quitclaim deed4 7f7 ,fair market value 7#a7 ,in general ,the fair market value of the ,property shall be-- 7,a7 determined by an appraisal that-- 7i7 is conducted by an independent appraiser selected by the ,secretary2 and 7ii7 meets the requirements of paragraph 7#b72 and 7,b7 adjusted1 at the ,secretary's discretion1 based on the factors described in paragraph 7#c74 7#b7 ,appraisal requirements ,an appraisal conducted under paragraph 7#a77;,a7 shall be conducted in accordance with nationally recognized appraisal standards1 including-- 7,a7 the ,uniform ,appraisal ,standards for ,federal ,land ,acquisitions2 and 7,b7 the ,uniform ,standards of ,professional ,appraisal ,practice4 7#c7 ,factors ,the factors described in this paragraph are-- 7,a7 matters of equity and fairness2 7,b7 actions taken by the ,city regarding the ,property1 if the ,city exercises its right of first refusal under subsection 7c71 including-- 7i7 comprehensive waterfront planning1 site development1 and other redevelopment activities supported by the ,city in proximity to the ,property in furtherance of the ,master ,plan2 7ii7 in-kind contributions made to facilitate and support use of the ,property by governmental agencies2 and 7iii7 any maintenance expenses1 capital improvement1 or emergency expenditures made necessary to ensure public safety and access to and from the ,property2 and 7,c7 such other factors as the ,secretary considers appropriate4 7g7 ,costs of conveyance ,if the ,city exercises its right of first refusal under subsection 7c71 all reasonable and necessary costs1 including real estate transaction and environmental documentation costs1 associated with the conveyance of the ,property to the ,city under this section may be shared equitably by the ,secretary and the ,city1 as determined by the ,secretary1 including with the ,city providing in-kind contributions for any or all of such costs4 7h7 ,proceeds ,notwithstanding section #ccjb of title #ca1 ,united ,states ,code1 or any other provision of law1 any proceeds from a conveyance of the ,property under this section shall-- 7#a7 be deposited in an account or accounts of the ,national ,oceanic and ,atmospheric ,administration that exists as of the date of the enactment of this ,act2 7#b7 used to cover costs associated with the conveyance1 related relocation efforts1 and other facility and infrastructure projects in ,alaska2 and 7#c7 remain available until expended1 without further appropriation4 7i7 ,memorandum of agreement ,if the ,city exercises its right of first refusal under subsection 7c71 before finalizing a conveyance to the ,city under this section1 the ,secretary and the ,city shall enter into a memorandum of agreement to establish the terms under which the ,secretary shall have future access to1 and use of1 the ,property to accommodate the reasonable expectations of the ,secretary for future operational and logistical needs in southeast ,alaska4 7j7 ,reservation or easement for access and use ,the conveyance authorized under this section shall be subject to a reservation providing1 or an easement granting1 the ,secretary1 at no cost to the ,united ,states1 a right to access and use the ,property that-- 7#a7 is compatible with the ,master ,plan2 and 7#b7 authorizes future operational access and use by other ,federal1 ,state1 and local government agencies that have customarily used the ,property4 7k7 ,liability 7#a7 ,after conveyance ,an individual or entity to which a conveyance is made under this section shall hold the ,united ,states harmless from any liability with respect to activities carried out on or after the date and time of the conveyance of the ,property4 7#b7 ,before conveyance ,the ,united ,states shall remain responsible for any liability the ,united ,states incurred with respect to activities the ,united ,states carried out on the ,property before the date and time of the conveyance of the ,property4 7l7 ,additional terms and conditions ,the ,secretary may require such additional terms and conditions in connection with a conveyance under this section as the ,secretary considers appropriate and reasonable to protect the interests of the ,united ,states4 7m7 ,environmental compliance ,nothing in this section may be construed to affect or limit the application of or obligation to comply with any applicable environmental law1 including-- 7#a7 the ,national ,environmental ,policy ,act of #aifi 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #dcba et seq472 or 7#b7 section #abj7;h7 of the ,comprehensive ,environmental ,response1 ,compensation1 and ,liability ,act of #aihj 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #ifbj7;h774 7n7 ,conveyance not a major ,federal action ,a conveyance under this section shall not be considered a major ,federal action for purposes of section #ajb7b7 of the ,national ,environmental ,policy ,act of #aifi 7#db ,u4,s4,c4 #dccb7b774 ,,viii ,technical1 conforming1 and clarifying amendments #hja4 ,technical corrections 7a7 ,section #cai7;b7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking section #cca of the ,,faa ,modernization and ,reform ,act of #bjab 7#di ,u4,s4,c4 #djaja note7 and inserting section #ddhja of title #di4 7b7 ,section #aaef7;c7 of title #ad1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended by striking section #cca of the ,,faa ,modernization and ,reform ,act of #bjab 7#di ,u4,s4,c4 #djaja note7 and inserting section #ddhja of title #di4 #hjb4 ,reinstatement 7a7 ,reinstatement ,the text of section #ab7;a7 of the ,act of ,june #ba1 #aidj 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #ebb7;a771 popularly known as the ,truman-,hobbs ,act1 is-- 7#a7 reinstated as it appeared on the day before the date of the enactment of section #hejg7;b7 of the ,william ,m4 7,mac7 ,thornberry ,national ,defense ,authorization ,act for ,fiscal ,year #bjba 7,public ,law #aaf-bhc2 #acd ,stat4 #dged72 and 7#b7 redesignated as the sole text of section #ab of the ,act of ,june #ba1 #aidj 7#cc ,u4,s4,c4 #ebb74 7b7 ,effective date ,the provision reinstated by subsection 7a7 shall be treated as if such section #hejg7;b7 had never taken effect4 7c7 ,conforming amendment ,the provision reinstated under subsection 7a7 is amended by striking 1 except to the extent provided in this section4 #hjc4 ,terms and vacancies ,section #dfaja7;b7 of title #df1 ,united ,states ,code1 is amended-- 7#a7 in paragraph 7#b7-- 7,a7 by striking one year and inserting #b years2 and 7,b7 by striking #b terms and inserting #c terms2 and 7#b7 in paragraph 7#c7-- 7,a7 by striking of the individual being succeeded and inserting to which such individual is appointed2 7,b7 by striking #b terms and inserting #c terms2 and 7,c7 by striking the predecessor of that and inserting such4