Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2019

To authorize appropriations for the Coast Guard, and for other purposes. 1. Short title This Act may be cited as the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2019 2. Table of contents The table of contents for this Act is as follows: Sec. 1. Short title. Sec. 2. Table of contents. Title I—Authorizations Sec. 101. Authorizations of appropriations. Sec. 102. Authorized levels of military strength and training. Title II—Coast Guard Sec. 201. Grade on retirement. Sec. 202. Congressional affairs; Director. Sec. 203. Limitations on claims. Sec. 204. Authority for officers to opt out of promotion board consideration. Sec. 205. Temporary promotion authority for officers in certain grades with critical skills. Sec. 206. Career intermission program. Sec. 207. Major acquisitions; operation and sustainment costs. Sec. 208. Employment assistance. Sec. 209. Reports on gender diversity in the Coast Guard. Sec. 210. Disposition of infrastructure related to E–LORAN. Sec. 211. Positions of importance and responsibility. Sec. 212. Coast Guard pay; continuation. Sec. 213. Research projects; transactions other than contracts and grants. Sec. 214. Acquisition workforce authorities. Sec. 215. Coast Guard Housing Fund. Sec. 216. Report on Coast Guard defense readiness resources allocation. Sec. 217. Report on the feasibility of liquefied natural gas fueled vessels. Title III—Shipping Sec. 301. Electronic charts; equivalency. Sec. 302. Passenger vessel security and safety requirements; application. Sec. 303. Non-operating individual. Sec. 304. Small passenger vessels and uninspected passenger vessels. Sec. 305. Installation vessels. Sec. 306. Advisory committees. Sec. 307. Expired maritime liens. Sec. 308. Offshore navigation. Sec. 309. Training; emergency response providers. Sec. 310. Aiming a laser pointer at a vessel. Sec. 311. Maritime transportation assessment. Sec. 312. Safety of special activities. Sec. 313. Engine cut-off switches; use requirement. Sec. 314. Exemptions and equivalents. Sec. 315. Abandoned seafarers fund. Sec. 316. Ice patrol; payments. Sec. 317. Security plans; reviews. Sec. 318. Waiver of navigation and vessel inspection laws. Sec. 319. Requirement for small shipyard grantees. Sec. 320. Independent study on the United States Merchant Marine Academy. Sec. 321. Centers of excellence for domestic maritime workforce training and education. Sec. 322. Renewal of merchant mariner licenses and documents. Title IV—Miscellaneous Sec. 401. Coastwise trade. Sec. 402. Unmanned maritime systems. Sec. 403. Expedited transfer in cases of sexual assault; dependents of members of the Coast Guard. Sec. 404. Towing vessels; operation outside the boundary line. Sec. 405. Coast Guard authorities study. Sec. 406. Cloud computing strategy. Sec. 407. Report on effects of climate change on Coast Guard. Sec. 408. Shore infrastructure. Sec. 409. Physical access control system report. Sec. 410. Coastwise endorsements. Sec. 411. Polar security cutter acquisition report. Sec. 412. Sense of the Congress on the need for a new Great Lakes icebreaker. Sec. 413. Cargo preference study. Sec. 414. Insider Threat program. Sec. 415. Fishing safety grants. Sec. 416. Plans for demonstration programs. Sec. 417. Waters deemed not navigable waters of the United States for certain purposes. Sec. 418. Coast Guard housing; status and authorities briefing. Sec. 419. Conveyance of Coast Guard property at Point Spencer, Alaska. Sec. 420. Prohibition. Sec. 421. Certificate extensions. Sec. 422. Homeland security rotational cybersecurity research program at the Coast Guard Academy. Sec. 423. Towing vessel inspection fees. Sec. 424. Subrogated claims. Sec. 425. Loan provisions under Oil Pollution Act of 1990. Sec. 426. Liability limits. Sec. 427. Report on drug interdiction in the Caribbean basin. Sec. 428. Voting Requirement. Title V—Reorganization Sec. 501. Uninspected commercial fishing industry vessels. Sec. 502. Transfers. Sec. 503. Repeals. Title VI—Technical, Conforming, and Clarifying Amendments Sec. 601. Maritime transportation system. Sec. 602. References to persons seamen Sec. 603. Common appropriation structure. Sec. 604. References to himself his Sec. 605. References to motorboats yachts Sec. 606. Miscellaneous technical corrections. Sec. 607. Technical corrections relating to codification of Ports and Waterways Safety Act. Title VII—Federal Maritime Commission Sec. 701. Short title. Sec. 702. Authorization of appropriations. Title VIII—Coast Guard Academy Improvement Act Sec. 801. Short title. Sec. 802. Coast Guard Academy study. Sec. 803. Annual report. Sec. 804. Assessment of Coast Guard Academy admission processes. Sec. 805. Coast Guard Academy minority outreach team program. Sec. 806. Coast Guard college student pre-commissioning initiative. Sec. 807. Annual board of visitors. I Authorizations 101. Authorizations of appropriations Section 4902 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking year 2019 years 2020 and 2021 (2) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking provided for, $7,914,195,000 for fiscal year 2019. provided for— (i) $8,122,912,000 for fiscal year 2020; and (ii) $8,538,324,000 for fiscal year 2021. ; (3) in paragraph (1)(B), by striking subparagraph (A)— subparagraph (A)(i), $17,035,000 shall be for environmental compliance and restoration. (4) by striking paragraphs (1)(B)(i) and (1)(B)(ii); (5) in paragraph (1), by adding at the end the following: (C) Of the amount authorized under subparagraph (A)(ii) $17,376,000 shall be for environmental compliance and restoration. ; (6) in paragraph (2)— (A) by striking For the procurement (A) For the procurement (B) by striking and equipment, $2,694,745,000 for fiscal year 2019. and equipment— (i) $2,748,640,000 for fiscal year 2020; and (ii) $2,803,613,000 for fiscal year 2021. ; and (C) by adding at the end the following: (B) Of the amounts authorized under subparagraph (A), the following amounts shall be for the alteration of bridges: (i) $10,000,000 for fiscal year 2020; and (ii) $20,000,000 for fiscal year 2021. ; (7) in paragraph (3), by striking and equipment, $29,141,000 for fiscal year 2019. and equipment— (A) $13,834,000 for fiscal year 2020; and (B) $14,111,000 for fiscal year 2021. ; and (8) by adding at the end the following: (4) For the Coast Guard’s Medicare-eligible retiree health care fund contribution to the Department of Defense— (A) $205,107,000 for fiscal year 2020; and (B) $209,209,000 for fiscal year 2021. . 102. Authorized levels of military strength and training Section 4904 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), by striking 43,000 for fiscal year 2018 and 44,500 for fiscal year 2019 44,500 for each of fiscal years 2020 and 2021 (2) in subsection (b), by striking fiscal years 2018 and 2019 fiscal years 2020 and 2021 II Coast Guard 201. Grade on retirement (a) Commandant or Vice Commandant Section 303 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsections (a) and (b), by striking A Subject to section 2501, a (2) in subsection (c), by striking An Subject to section 2501, an (b) Other officers Section 306 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking An officer Subject to section 2501, an officer (2) in subsection (c), by striking his the officer’s (c) Commissioned or warrant officer Section 2501 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by striking Any Commissioned Officer.— (1) In general Any ; (B) by striking him such officer (C) by striking his the officer’s (D) by adding at the end the following: (2) Conditional determination When an officer is under investigation for alleged misconduct at the time of retirement, the Secretary may conditionally determine the highest grade of satisfactory service of the officer pending completion of the investigation. Such grade is subject to resolution under subsection (c)(2). ; (2) in subsection (b)— (A) by striking Any Warrant Officer.— (B) by striking him such warrant officer (C) by striking his the warrant officer’s (3) by adding at the end the following: (c) Retirement in next lower grade (1) Misconduct in lower grade In the case of an officer whom the Secretary determines committed misconduct in a lower grade, the Secretary may determine the officer has not served satisfactorily in any grade equal to or higher than that lower grade. (2) Conditional determination A determination of the retired grade of an officer shall be resolved following a conditional determination under subsection (a)(2) or (b)(2) if the investigation of or personnel action against the officer or warrant officer, as applicable, results in adverse findings. (3) Retired pay; recalculation If the retired grade of an officer is reduced, the retired pay of the officer under chapter 71 (d) Finality of retired grade determinations (1) Administrative finality Except as otherwise provided by law, a determination of the retired grade of an officer pursuant to this section is administratively final on the day the officer is retired, and may not be reopened. (2) Reopening determination A determination of the retired grade of an officer may be reopened as follows: (A) If the retirement or retired grade of the officer was procured by fraud. (B) If substantial evidence comes to light after the retirement that could have led to a lower retired grade under this section if known by competent authority at the time of retirement. (C) If a mistake of law or calculation was made in the determination of the retired grade. (D) In the case of a retired grade following a conditional determination under subsection (a)(2) or (b)(2), if the investigation of or personnel action against the officer, as applicable, results in an adverse finding. (E) If the Secretary determines, pursuant to regulations prescribed by the Secretary, that good cause exists to reopen the determination or certification. (3) Notification of reopening If a determination or certification of the retired grade of an officer is reopened, the Secretary— (A) shall notify the officer of the reopening; and (B) may not make an adverse determination on the retired grade of the officer until the officer has had a reasonable opportunity to respond regarding the basis of the reopening. (4) Retired pay; recalculation If the retired grade of an officer is reduced through the reopening of the officer’s or warrant officer’s retired grade, the retired pay of the officer under chapter 71 . 202. Congressional affairs; Director (a) In general Chapter 3 320. Congressional affairs; Director The Commandant of the Coast Guard shall appoint a Director of Congressional Affairs from among officers of the Coast Guard who are in a grade above captain. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 3 320. Congressional affairs; Director. . 203. Limitations on claims (a) Admiralty claims Section 937 of title 14, United States Code, is amended in subsection (a) by striking $100,000 $425,000 (b) Claims for damage to property of the United States Section 938 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking $100,000 $425,000 204. Authority for officers to opt out of promotion board consideration (a) Eligibility of officers for consideration for promotion Section 2113 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (g) (1) Notwithstanding subsection (a), the Commandant may provide that an officer may, upon the officer’s request and with the approval of the Commandant, be excluded from consideration by a selection board convened under section 2106(a). (2) The Commandant shall approve a request under paragraph (1) only if— (A) the basis for the request is to allow the officer to complete a broadening assignment, advanced education, another assignment of significant value to the Coast Guard, a career progression requirement delayed by the assignment or education, or a qualifying personal or professional circumstance, as determined by the Commandant; (B) the Commandant determines the exclusion from consideration is in the best interest of the Coast Guard; and (C) the officer has not previously failed of selection for promotion to the grade for which the officer requests the exclusion from consideration. . (b) Eligibility of reserve officer for promotion Section 3743 of title 14, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: 3743. Eligibility for promotion (a) In general Except as provided in subsection (b), a Reserve officer is eligible for consideration for promotion and for promotion under this subchapter, if that officer is in an active status. (b) Exception A Reserve officer who has been considered but not recommended for retention in an active status by a board convened under subsection 3752(a) of this title, is not eligible for consideration for promotion. (c) Request for exclusion (1) In general The Commandant may provide that an officer may, upon the officer’s request and with the approval of the Commandant, be excluded from consideration by a selection board convened under section 3740(b) of this title to consider officers for promotion to the next higher grade. (2) Approval of request The Commandant shall approve a request under paragraph (1) only if— (A) the basis for the request is to allow an officer to complete a broadening assignment, advanced education, another assignment of significant value to the Coast Guard, a career progression requirement delayed by the assignment or education, or a qualifying personal or professional circumstance, as determined by the Commandant; (B) the Commandant determines the exclusion from consideration is in the best interest of the Coast Guard; and (C) the officer has not previously failed of selection for promotion to the grade for which the officer requests the exclusion from consideration. . 205. Temporary promotion authority for officers in certain grades with critical skills (a) In general Subchapter I of Chapter 21 2130. Promotion to certain grades for officers with critical skills: captain, commander, lieutenant commander, lieutenant (a) In general An officer in the grade of lieutenant (junior grade), lieutenant, lieutenant commander, or commander, who is described in subsection (b) may be temporarily promoted to the grade of lieutenant, lieutenant commander, commander, or captain under regulations prescribed by the Secretary. Appointments under this section shall be made by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. (b) Covered officers An officer described in this subsection is any officer in a grade specified in subsection (a) who— (1) has a skill in which the Coast Guard has a critical shortage of personnel (as determined by the Secretary); and (2) is serving in a position (as determined by the Secretary) that— (A) is designated to be held by a lieutenant, lieutenant commander, commander, or captain; and (B) requires that an officer serving in such position have the skill possessed by such officer. (c) Preservation of position and status of officers appointed (1) The temporary positions authorized under this section shall not be counted among or included in the list of positions on the active duty promotion list. (2) An appointment under this section does not change the position on the active-duty list or the permanent, probationary, or acting status of the officer so appointed, prejudice the officer in regard to other promotions or appointments, or abridge the rights or benefits of the officer. (d) Board recommendation required A temporary promotion under this section may be made only upon the recommendation of a board of officers convened by the Secretary for the purpose of recommending officers for such promotions. (e) Acceptance and effective date of appointment Each appointment under this section, unless expressly declined, is, without formal acceptance, regarded as accepted on the date such appointment is made, and a member so appointed is entitled to the pay and allowances of the grade of the temporary promotion under this section beginning on the date the appointment is made. (f) Termination of appointment Unless sooner terminated, an appointment under this section terminates— (1) on the date the officer who received the appointment is promoted to the permanent grade of lieutenant, lieutenant commander, commander, or captain; (2) on the date the officer is detached from a position described in subsection (b)(2), unless the officer is on a promotion list to the permanent grade of lieutenant, lieutenant commander, commander, or captain, in which case the appointment terminates on the date the officer is promoted to that grade; or (3) when the appointment officer determines that the officer who received the appointment has engaged in misconduct or has displayed substandard performance. (g) Limitation on number of eligible positions An appointment under this section may only be made for service in a position designated by the Secretary for the purposes of this section. The number of positions so designated may not exceed the following percentages of the respective grades: (1) As lieutenant, 0.5 percent. (2) As lieutenant commander, 3.0 percent. (3) As commander, 2.6 percent. (4) As captain, 2.6 percent. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for such subchapter is amended by adding at the end the following: 2130. Promotion to certain grades for officers with critical skills: captain, commander, lieutenant commander, lieutenant. . 206. Career intermission program (a) In general Subchapter I of chapter 25 2514. Career flexibility to enhance retention of members (a) Programs authorized The Commandant may carry out a program under which members of the Coast Guard may be inactivated from active service in order to meet personal or professional needs and returned to active service at the end of such period of inactivation from active service. (b) Period of inactivation from active service; effect of inactivation (1) In general The period of inactivation from active service under a program under this section of a member participating in the program shall be such period as the Commandant shall specify in the agreement of the member under subsection (c), except that such period may not exceed three years. (2) Exclusion from years of service Any service by a Reserve officer while participating in a program under this section shall be excluded from computation of the total years of service of that officer pursuant to section 14706(a) of title 10. (3) Exclusion from retirement Any period of participation of a member in a program under this section shall not count toward— (A) eligibility for retirement or transfer to the Ready Reserve under either chapter 571 or 1223 of title 10; or (B) computation of retired or retainer pay under chapter 71 or 1223 of title 10. (c) Agreement Each member of the Coast Guard who participates in a program under this section shall enter into a written agreement with the Commandant under which that member shall agree as follows: (1) To accept an appointment or enlist, as applicable, and serve in the Coast Guard Ready Reserve during the period of the inactivation of the member from active service under the program. (2) To undergo during the period of the inactivation of the member from active service under the program such inactive service training as the Commandant shall require in order to ensure that the member retains proficiency, at a level determined by the Commandant to be sufficient, in the military skills, professional qualifications, and physical readiness of the member during the inactivation of the member from active service. (3) Following completion of the period of the inactivation of the member from active service under the program, to serve two months as a member of the Coast Guard on active service for each month of the period of the inactivation of the member from active service under the program. (d) Conditions of release The Commandant shall prescribe regulations specifying the guidelines regarding the conditions of release that must be considered and addressed in the agreement required by subsection (c). At a minimum, the Commandant shall prescribe the procedures and standards to be used to instruct a member on the obligations to be assumed by the member under paragraph (2) of such subsection while the member is released from active service. (e) Order to active service Under regulations prescribed by the Commandant, a member of the Coast Guard participating in a program under this section may, in the discretion of the Commandant, be required to terminate participation in the program and be ordered to active service. (f) Pay and allowances (1) Basic pay During each month of participation in a program under this section, a member who participates in the program shall be paid basic pay in an amount equal to two-thirtieths of the amount of monthly basic pay to which the member would otherwise be entitled under section 204 of title 37 as a member of the uniformed services on active service in the grade and years of service of the member when the member commences participation in the program. (2) Special or incentive pay or bonus (A) Prohibition A member who participates in such a program shall not, while participating in the program, be paid any special or incentive pay or bonus to which the member is otherwise entitled under an agreement under chapter 5 (B) Not treated as failure to perform services The inactivation from active service of a member participating in a program shall not be treated as a failure of the member to perform any period of service required of the member in connection with an agreement for a special or incentive pay or bonus under chapter 5 (3) Return to active service (A) Special or incentive pay or bonus Subject to subparagraph (B), upon the return of a member to active service after completion by the member of participation in a program— (i) any agreement entered into by the member under chapter 5 (ii) any special or incentive pay or bonus shall be payable to the member in accordance with the terms of the agreement concerned for the term specified in clause (i). (B) Limitation (i) In general Subparagraph (A) shall not apply to any special or incentive pay or bonus otherwise covered by that subparagraph with respect to a member if, at the time of the return of the member to active service as described in that subparagraph— (I) such pay or bonus is no longer authorized by law; or (II) the member does not satisfy eligibility criteria for such pay or bonus as in effect at the time of the return of the member to active service. (ii) Pay or bonus ceases being authorized Subparagraph (A) shall cease to apply to any special or incentive pay or bonus otherwise covered by that subparagraph with respect to a member if, during the term of the revived agreement of the member under subparagraph (A)(i), such pay or bonus ceases being authorized by law. (C) Repayment A member who is ineligible for payment of a special or incentive pay or bonus otherwise covered by this paragraph by reason of subparagraph (B)(i)(II) shall be subject to the requirements for repayment of such pay or bonus in accordance with the terms of the applicable agreement of the member under chapter 5 (D) Required service is additional Any service required of a member under an agreement covered by this paragraph after the member returns to active service as described in subparagraph (A) shall be in addition to any service required of the member under an agreement under subsection (c). (4) Travel and transportation allowance (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), a member who participates in a program is entitled, while participating in the program, to the travel and transportation allowances authorized by section 474 of title 37 for— (i) travel performed from the residence of the member, at the time of release from active service to participate in the program, to the location in the United States designated by the member as the member’s residence during the period of participation in the program; and (ii) travel performed to the residence of the member upon return to active service at the end of the participation of the member in the program. (B) Single residence An allowance is payable under this paragraph only with respect to travel of a member to and from a single residence. (5) Leave balance A member who participates in a program is entitled to carry forward the leave balance existing as of the day on which the member begins participation and accumulated in accordance with section 701 of title 10, but not to exceed 60 days. (g) Promotion (1) Officers (A) In general An officer participating in a program under this section shall not, while participating in the program, be eligible for consideration for promotion under chapter 21 or 37 of this title. (B) Return to service Upon the return of an officer to active service after completion by the officer of participation in a program— (i) the Commandant may adjust the date of rank of the officer in such manner as the Commandant shall prescribe in regulations for purposes of this section; and (ii) the officer shall be eligible for consideration for promotion when officers of the same competitive category, grade, and seniority are eligible for consideration for promotion. (2) Enlisted members An enlisted member participating in a program shall not be eligible for consideration for advancement during the period that— (A) begins on the date of the inactivation of the member from active service under the program; and (B) ends at such time after the return of the member to active service under the program that the member is treatable as eligible for promotion by reason of time in grade and such other requirements as the Commandant shall prescribe in regulations for purposes of the program. (h) Continued entitlements A member participating in a program under this section shall, while participating in the program, be treated as a member of the Armed Forces on active duty for a period of more than 30 days for purposes of— (1) the entitlement of the member and of the dependents of the member to medical and dental care under the provisions of chapter 55 of this title; and (2) retirement or separation for physical disability under the provisions of chapter 61 . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for such chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 2513 the following: 2514. Career flexibility to enhance retention of members. . 207. Major acquisitions; operation and sustainment costs Section 5103(e)(3) of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as subparagraphs (C) and (D) respectively; and (2) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following: (B) operate and sustain the cutters and aircraft described under paragraph (2); . 208. Employment assistance (a) In general Subchapter I of chapter 27 2713. Employment assistance (a) In general In order to improve the accuracy and completeness of a certification or verification of job skills and experience required by section 1143(a)(1) of title 10, the Secretary shall— (1) establish a database to record all training performed by members of the Coast Guard that may have application to employment in the civilian sector; and (2) make unclassified information regarding such information available to States and other potential employers referred to in section 1143(c) of title 10 so that State and other entities may allow military training to satisfy licensing or certification requirements to engage in a civilian profession. (b) Form of certification or verification The Secretary shall ensure that a certification or verification of job skills and experience required by section 1143(a)(1) of title 10 is rendered in such a way that States and other potential employers can confirm the accuracy and authenticity of the certification or verification. (c) Requests by states A State may request that the Secretary confirm the accuracy and authenticity of a certification or verification of jobs skills and experience provided under section 1143(c) of title 10. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for such chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 2712 the following: 2713. Employment assistance. . 209. Reports on gender diversity in the Coast Guard (a) Action plan (1) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall— (A) determine which recommendations in the RAND gender diversity report can practicably be implemented to promote gender diversity in the Coast Guard; and (B) submit a report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the actions the Coast Guard has taken or plans to take to implement such recommendations. (2) Definition In this subsection, the term RAND diversity report Improving Gender Diversity in the U.S. Coast Guard: Identifying Barriers to Female Retention (b) Recurring report Chapter 51 5109. Report on gender diversity in the Coast Guard (a) In general Not later than January 15, 2022, and biennially thereafter, the Commandant shall submit a report on gender diversity in the Coast Guard to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. (b) Contents The report required under subsection (a) shall contain the following: (1) Gender diversity overview An overview of Coast Guard active duty and Reserve members, including the number of officers and enlisted members and the percentages of men and women in each. (2) Recruitment and retention (A) An analysis of the changes in the recruitment and retention of women over the previous two years. (B) A discussion of any changes to Coast Guard recruitment and retention over the previous two years that were aimed at increasing the recruitment and retention of female members. (3) Parental leave (A) The number of men and women who took parental leave during each year covered by the report, including the average length of such leave periods. (B) A discussion of the ways in which the Coast Guard worked to mitigate the impacts of parental leave on Coast Guard operations and on the careers of the members taking such leave. (4) Limitations An analysis of current gender-based limitations on Coast Guard career opportunities, including discussion of— (A) shipboard opportunities; (B) opportunities to serve at remote units; and (C) any other limitations on the opportunities of female members. (5) Progress update An update on the Coast Guard’s progress on the implementation of the action plan required under section 209 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2019. . (c) Clerical amendment The analysis for such chapter is amended by adding at the end the following: 5109. Report on gender diversity in the Coast Guard. . 210. Disposition of infrastructure related to E–LORAN Section 914 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by striking date later of the date of the conveyance of the properties directed under section 533(a) of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2016 ( Public Law 114–120 (B) by striking determination by the Secretary determination by the Secretary of Transportation under section 312(d) of title 49 (2) in subsection (c), by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following: (2) Availability of proceeds The proceeds of such sales, less the costs of sale incurred by the General Services Administration, shall be deposited into the Coast Guard Housing Fund and, without further appropriation, shall be available until expended for uses authorized under section 2946 of this title. . 211. Positions of importance and responsibility Section 2103(c)(3) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking rear admiral (lower half) vice admiral 212. Coast Guard pay; continuation (a) Short title This section may be cited as the Pay Our Coast Guard Parity Act of 2019 (b) Findings The Congress makes the following findings: (1) The Coast Guard is a military service and a branch of the Armed Forces of the United States at all times regardless of whether it operates as a service in the Department of Homeland Security or as a service in the Navy. (2) Notwithstanding respective appropriations and except as otherwise provided in law, members of the Coast Guard should receive treatment equitable to that of other members of the Armed Forces with regard to pay and benefits. (c) Coast Guard pay; continuation (1) In general Chapter 27 2780. Pay; continuation during lapse in appropriations (a) In general In the case of any period in which there is a Coast Guard-specific funding lapse, there are appropriated such sums as may be necessary— (1) to provide pay and allowances to military members of the Coast Guard, including the reserve component thereof, who perform active service or inactive-duty training during such period; (2) to provide pay and benefits to qualified civilian employees of the Coast Guard; (3) to provide pay and benefits to qualified contract employees of the Coast Guard; (4) to provide for— (A) the payment of a death gratuity under sections 1475 through 1477 and 1489 of title 10, with respect to members of the Coast Guard; (B) the payment or reimbursement of authorized funeral travel and travel related to the dignified transfer of remains and unit memorial services under section 481f of title 37, with respect to members of the Coast Guard; and (C) the temporary continuation of a basic allowance of housing for dependents of members of the Coast Guard dying on active duty, as authorized by section 403(l) of title 37; and (5) to provide for Coast Guard retired pay, including the payment of obligations otherwise chargeable to lapsed appropriations for this purpose, payments under the Retired Serviceman’s Family Protection and Survivor Benefits Plans, payment for career status bonuses, payment of continuation pay under section 356 of title 37, concurrent receipts, combat-related special compensation, and payments for medical care of retired personnel and their dependents under chapter 55 (b) Coast Guard-Specific funding lapse For purposes of this section, a Coast Guard-specific funding lapse occurs in any case in which— (1) a general appropriation bill providing appropriations for the Coast Guard for a fiscal year is not enacted before the beginning of such fiscal year (and no joint resolution making continuing appropriations for the Coast Guard is in effect); and (2) a general appropriation bill providing appropriations for the Department of Defense for such fiscal year is enacted before the beginning of such fiscal year (or a joint resolution making continuing appropriations for the Department of Defense is in effect). (c) Termination Appropriations and funds made available and authority granted for any fiscal year for any purpose under subsection (a) shall be available until whichever of the following first occurs: (1) The enactment into law of an appropriation (including a continuing appropriation) for such purpose. (2) The enactment into law of an appropriation (including a continuing appropriation) for the Coast Guard without provision for such purpose. (3) The termination of availability of appropriations for the Department of Defense. (4) The date that is 180 days after the beginning of the Coast Guard-specific funding lapse. (d) Rate for operations; applicability to appropriation acts Appropriations made pursuant this section shall be available at a rate for operations and to the extent and in the manner that would be provided by the pertinent appropriations Act. (e) Charge to future appropriations Expenditures made pursuant to this section shall be charged to the applicable appropriation, fund, or authorization whenever a bill in which such applicable appropriation, fund, or authorization is enacted into law. (f) Apportionment Appropriations and funds made available by or authority granted under this section may be used without regard to the time limitations for submission and approval of apportionments set forth in section 1513 of title 31, but nothing in this section may be construed to waive any other provision of law governing the apportionment of funds. (g) Definitions In this section: (1) Qualified civilian employee The term qualified civilian employee (A) providing support to members of the Coast Guard or another Armed Force; or (B) performing work as an excepted employee or an employee performing emergency work, as those terms are defined by the Office of Personnel Management. (2) Qualified contract employee of the Coast Guard The term qualified contract employee of the Coast Guard (A) providing support to military members or qualified civilian employees of the Coast Guard or another Armed Force; or (B) required to perform work during a lapse in appropriations. . (2) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 27 2780. Pay; continuation during lapse in appropriations. . 213. Research projects; transactions other than contracts and grants (a) In general Chapter 7 720. Research projects; transactions other than contracts and grants (a) Additional forms of transactions authorized The Commandant may enter into transactions (other than contracts, cooperative agreements, and grants) in carrying out basic, applied, and advanced research projects. The authority under this subsection is in addition to the authority provided in section 717 to use contracts, cooperative agreements, and grants in carrying out such projects. (b) Advance payments The authority under subsection (a) may be exercised without regard to section 3324 of title 31. (c) Recovery of funds (1) In general Subject to subsection (d), a cooperative agreement for performance of basic, applied, or advanced research authorized by section 717, and a transaction authorized by subsection (a), may include a clause that requires a person or other entity to make payments to the Coast Guard or any other department or agency of the Federal Government as a condition for receiving support under the agreement or transaction, respectively. (2) Availability of funds The amount of any payment received by the Federal Government pursuant to a requirement imposed under paragraph (1) may be credited, to the extent authorized by the Commandant, to an appropriate appropriations account. Amounts so credited shall be merged with other funds in the account and shall be available for the same purposes and the same period for which other funds in such account are available. (d) Conditions (1) In general The Commandant shall ensure that— (A) to the extent that the Commandant determines practicable, no cooperative agreement containing a clause described in subsection (c)(1), and no transaction entered into under subsection (a), provides for research that duplicates research being conducted under existing programs carried out by the Coast Guard; and (B) to the extent that the Commandant determines practicable, the funds provided by the Federal Government under a cooperative agreement containing a clause described in subsection (c)(1), or under a transaction authorized by subsection (a), do not exceed the total amount provided by other parties to the cooperative agreement or other transaction, respectively. (2) Other agreements not feasible A cooperative agreement containing a clause described in subsection (c)(1), or under a transaction authorized by subsection (a), may be used for a research project only if the use of a standard contract, grant, or cooperative agreement for such project is not feasible or appropriate. (e) Education and training The Commandant shall— (1) ensure that management, technical, and contracting personnel of the Coast Guard involved in the award or administration of transactions under this section or other innovative forms of contracting are afforded opportunities for adequate education and training; and (2) establish minimum levels and requirements for continuous and experiential learning for such personnel, including levels and requirements for acquisition certification programs. (f) Regulations The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall prescribe regulations, as necessary, to carry out this section. (g) Protection of certain information from disclosure (1) In general Disclosure of information described in paragraph (2) is not required, and may not be compelled, under section 552 of title 5 for five years after the date on which the information is received by the Coast Guard. (2) Limitation (A) In general Paragraph (1) applies to information described in subparagraph (B) that is in the records of the Coast Guard only if the information was submitted to the Coast Guard in a competitive or noncompetitive process having the potential for resulting in an award, to the party submitting the information, of a cooperative agreement for performance of basic, applied, or advanced research authorized by section 717 or another transaction authorized by subsection (a). (B) Information described The information referred to in subparagraph (A) is the following: (i) A proposal, proposal abstract, and supporting documents. (ii) A business plan submitted on a confidential basis. (iii) Technical information submitted on a confidential basis. (h) Annual report On the date on which the President submits to Congress a budget pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report describing each use of the authority provided under this section during the most recently completed fiscal year, including details of each use consisting of— (1) the amount of each transaction; (2) the entities or organizations involved; (3) the product or service received; and (4) the research project for which the product or service was required. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 7 720. Research projects; transactions other than contracts and grants. . 214. Acquisition workforce authorities (a) In general Chapter 11 1111. Acquisition workforce authorities (a) Expedited hiring authority (1) In general For the purposes of section 3304 of title 5, the Commandant may— (A) designate any category of acquisition positions within the Coast Guard as shortage category positions; and (B) use the authorities in such section to recruit and appoint highly qualified persons directly to positions so designated. (2) Reports The Commandant shall include in reports under section 1102 information described in that section regarding positions designated under this subsection. (b) Reemployment authority (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), if an annuitant receiving an annuity from the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund becomes employed in any category of acquisition positions designated by the Commandant under subsection (a), the annuity of the annuitant so employed shall continue. The annuitant so reemployed shall not be considered an employee for purposes of subchapter III of chapter 83 or chapter 84 (2) (A) Election An annuitant retired under section 8336(d)(1) or 8414(b)(1)(A) of title 5, receiving an annuity from the Civil Service Retirement and Disability Fund, who becomes employed in any category of acquisition positions designated by the Commandant under subsection (a) after date of enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2019, may elect to be subject to section 8344 or 8468 of such title (as the case may be). (i) Deadline An election for coverage under this subsection shall be filed not later than 90 days after the Commandant takes reasonable actions to notify an employee who may file an election. (ii) Coverage If an employee files an election under this subsection, coverage shall be effective beginning on the first day of the first applicable pay period beginning on or after the date of the filing of the election. (B) Application Paragraph (1) shall apply to an individual who is eligible to file an election under such subparagraph and does not file a timely election under clause (i). . (b) Clerical amendment The table of contents of chapter 11 section 1110 1111. Acquisition workforce authorities. . 215. Coast Guard Housing Fund Section 2946 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (c) by striking paragraph (2) and redesignating paragraph (1) as paragraph (2); (2) by inserting before paragraph (2), as redesignated by paragraph (1), the following: “ (1) Amounts in the Fund shall be available to the Secretary without further appropriation and shall remain available until expended. ; and (3) in paragraph (2), as redesignated by paragraph (1), by striking In such amounts as provided in appropriations Acts, and except Except 216. Report on Coast Guard defense readiness resources allocation (a) Report required Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, a report on the allocation of resources by the Coast Guard to support its defense readiness mission. (b) Contents The report required by subsection (a) shall include the following elements: (1) Funding levels allocated by the Coast Guard to support defense readiness missions for each of the past ten fiscal years. (2) Funding levels transferred or otherwise provided by the Department of Defense to the Coast Guard in support of the Coast Guard’s defense readiness missions for each of the past ten fiscal years. (3) The number of Coast Guard detachments assigned in support of the Coast Guard’s defense readiness mission for each of the past ten fiscal years. (c) Assessment In addition to the elements detailed in subsection (b), the report shall include an assessment of the impacts on the Coast Guard’s non-defense mission readiness and operational capabilities due to the annual levels of reimbursement provided by the Department of Defense to compensate the Coast Guard for its expenses to fulfill its defense readiness mission. 217. Report on the feasibility of liquefied natural gas fueled vessels Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit a report to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the following: (1) The feasibility, safety, and cost effectiveness of using liquefied natural gas to fuel new Coast Guard vessels. (2) The feasibility, safety, and cost effectiveness of converting existing vessels to run on liquefied natural gas fuels. (3) The operational benefits of using liquefied natural gas to fuel Coast Guard vessels. III Shipping 301. Electronic charts; equivalency (a) Requirements Section 3105(a)(1) of title 46, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: (1) Electronic charts in lieu of marine charts, charts, and maps Subject to paragraph (2), the following vessels, while operating on the navigable waters of the United States, shall be equipped with and operate electronic navigational charts conforming to a standard acceptable to the Secretary in lieu of any marine charts, charts, and maps required by titles 33 and 46, Code of Federal Regulations, as in effect on the date of the enactment of this paragraph: (A) A self-propelled commercial vessel of at least 65 feet overall length. (B) A vessel carrying more than a number of passengers for hire determined by the Secretary. (C) A towing vessel of more than 26 feet in overall length and 600 horsepower. (D) Any other vessel for which the Secretary decides that electronic charts are necessary for the safe navigation of the vessel. . (b) Exemptions and waivers Section 3105(a)(2) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by— (1) in subparagraph (A), by striking operates; and operates; (2) in subparagraph (B), by striking those waters. those waters; and (3) by adding at the end the following: (C) permit vessels that operate solely landward of the baseline from which the territorial sea of the United States is measured to utilize software-based, platform-independent electronic chart systems that the Secretary determines are capable of displaying electronic navigational charts with necessary scale and detail to ensure safe navigation for the intended voyage. . 302. Passenger vessel security and safety requirements; application Section 3507(k)(1) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subparagraph (B), by adding and (2) in subparagraph (C), by striking ; and (3) by striking subparagraph (D). 303. Non-operating individual (a) Definition Section 2101 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by inserting after paragraph (23) the following: (23a) non-operating individual (A) does not perform— (i) with respect to the operation of a vessel, watchstanding, automated engine room duty watch, navigation, or personnel safety functions; (ii) with respect to the loading and unloading of merchandise, cargo handling functions, including any activity relating to the loading or unloading of cargo, the operation of cargo-related equipment (whether or not integral to the vessel), and the handling of mooring lines on the dock when the vessel is made fast or let go; (iii) vessel maintenance, including any repairs that can be performed by the vessel’s crew or a riding gang; or (iv) safety, security, or environmental protection activities directly related to the operation of the vessel and normally conducted by the vessel’s crew; (B) does not serve as part of the crew complement required under section 8101; (C) does not serve as a riding gang member; (D) is not a member of the steward’s department; (E) is not a citizen or temporary or permanent resident of a country designated by the United States as a sponsor of terrorism or any other country that the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the heads of other appropriate United States agencies, determines to be a security threat to the United States; (F) is not specifically exempted from the requirement to have a merchant mariner’s document under section 8701(a); (G) has not been convicted in any jurisdiction of an offense described in paragraph (2) or (3) of section 7703; (H) whose license, certificate of registry, or merchant mariner’s document has not been suspended or revoked under section 7704; and (I) who does not otherwise constitute a threat to the safety of the vessel. . (b) Citizenship and navy reserve requirements Section 8103(j) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by— (1) striking Riding Gang Member Riding Gang Member or Non-Operating Individual (2) inserting or a non-operating individual (c) Requirements relating to non-Operating individuals (1) In general Chapter 81 (A) by redesignating section 8107 as section 8108; and (B) by inserting after section 8106 the following: 8107. Requirements relating to non-operating individuals (a) In general The owner or managing operator of a merchant vessel of the United States of at least 100 gross tons as measured under section 14502, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104, shall— (1) ensure that— (A) each non-operating individual on the vessel— (i) is a United States citizen or an alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence; or (ii) possesses a United States non-immigrant visa for individuals desiring to enter the United States temporarily for business, employment-related and personal identifying information, and any other documentation required by the Secretary; (B) all required documentation for such individual is kept on the vessel and available for inspection by the Secretary; and (C) each non-operating individual is identified on the manifest; (2) ensure that— (A) each non-operating individual possesses— (i) a merchant mariner’s document; (ii) a transportation worker identification credential under section 70105; or (iii) a current security clearance issued by a Federal agency; or (B) the employer of such an individual attests in a certificate to the owner or managing operator that— (i) the background of such individual has been examined and found to be free of any credible information indicating a material risk to the security of the vessel, the vessel’s cargo, the ports the vessel visits, or other individuals onboard the vessel;; (ii) such examination— (I) met the requirements of section 70105(d)(2), for persons described in paragraph (1)(A)(i) of this subsection; or (II) consisted of a search of all information reasonably available to the owner or managing operator in the individual’s country of citizenship and any other country in which the individual works, receives employment referrals, or resides, for persons described in paragraph (1)(A)(ii) of this subsection; and (iii) the information derived from any such examination is made available to the Secretary upon request; (3) ensure that each non-operating individual of the vessel, while on board the vessel, is subject to the same random chemical testing and reporting regimes as crew members; (4) ensure that each such individual employed on the vessel receives basic safety familiarization and basic safety training approved by the Coast Guard; and (5) ensure that every non-operating individual of the vessel is employed on board the vessel under conditions that meet or exceed the minimum international standards of all applicable international labor conventions to which the United States is a party, including all of the merchant seamen protection and relief provided under United States law. (b) Recordkeeping In addition to the requirements of subsection (a), the owner or managing operator of a vessel to which subsection (a) applies shall ensure that all information necessary to ensure compliance with this section, as determined by the Secretary, is entered into the vessel’s official logbook required by chapter 113. (c) Civil penalty A person (including an individual) violating this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $1,250. . (2) Clerical amendments The analysis for chapter 81 8107. Requirements relating to non-operating individuals. 8108. Use of force against piracy. . (3) Conforming amendments (A) Merchant mariners’ documents required Section 8701 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (e) This section does not apply to non-operating individuals. . (B) Training for use of force against piracy Section 51705(4) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 46 U.S.C. 8107 note 46 U.S.C. 8108 note 304. Small passenger vessels and uninspected passenger vessels Section 12121 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking subparagraphs (A) and (B) and inserting the following: (A) was built in the United States; (B) was not built in the United States and is at least 3 years old; or (C) if rebuilt, was rebuilt— (i) in the United States; or (ii) outside the United States at least 3 years before the certificate requested under subsection (b) would take effect. ; and (2) in subsection (b), by inserting 12132, 12113, 305. Installation vessels (a) In general Chapter 551 55123. Installation vessels (a) Initial determination of coastwise qualified vessel No later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this section, the Secretary of Transportation shall determine whether an installation vessel exists for which a coastwise endorsement has been issued under section 12112. (b) Application If the Secretary of Transportation determines under subsection (a) that no such coastwise qualified vessel exists, then, after the date on which such determination is made, lifting operations between a vessel for which a coastwise endorsement has been issued under section 12112 and an installation vessel for which no such endorsement has been issued is not transportation of merchandise for the purposes of section 55102. (c) Requests for determinations of coastwise qualified vessels (1) In general After the date on which the determination is made under subsection (a), an installation vessel for which a coastwise endorsement has been issued under section 12112, the owner or operator of such installation vessel may seek a new determination from the Secretary of Transportation that an installation vessel for which a coastwise endorsement has been issued under section 12112 exists. (2) Application to non-qualified vessels If the Secretary of Transportation makes a determination under paragraph (1) that a coastwise qualified vessel exists, then— (A) the owner or operator of an installation vessel for which no coastwise endorsement has been issued under section 12112 shall seek a determination of the availability of a coastwise qualified vessel under paragraph (3) before using such non-coastwise qualified vessel for the transportation of a platform jacket; and (B) after the date on which such determination is made, the owner or operator of an installation vessel for which no coastwise endorsement has been issued under section 12112 shall not use such non-coastwise qualified vessel for the transportation of a platform jacket unless the Secretary of Transportation determines a coastwise qualified is not available under paragraph (4). (3) Criteria for determination of availability The Secretary of Transportation shall determine a coastwise qualified vessel is not available if— (A) the owner or operator of a non-coastwise qualified vessel submits to the Secretary of Transportation an application for the use of a non-coastwise qualified installation vessel for transportation of a platform jacket under this section that includes all relevant information, including engineering details and timing requirements, and such application is submitted not less than 1 year before the date such vessel is required for such use; (B) the Secretary provides the application made under subparagraph (A) to the owner of each coastwise qualified vessel listed as an installation vessel in the inventory under section 12138(c) and promptly publishes in the Federal Register a notice— (i) describing the project and the platform jacket involved; (ii) advising that all relevant information reasonably needed to assess the transportation and installation requirements for the platform jacket will be made available to an interested person on request; and (iii) requesting that information on the availability of coastwise qualified vessels be submitted within a 45-day period beginning on the date of such publication; and (C) (i) within such 45-day period no information is submitted to the Secretary from owners or operators of coastwise qualified installation vessels to meet the requirements of the application required under paragraph (A); or (ii) the owner or operator of a coastwise qualified installation vessel submits information to the Secretary asserting that the owner or operator has a suitable coastwise qualified installation vessel available to meet the requirements of the application required under paragraph (A), but the Secretary determines, within 90 days after the notice is first published, that the coastwise qualified installation vessel is not suitable or reasonably available for the transportation. (d) Definitions In this section: (1) Installation vessel The term installation vessel (A) is used to install platform jackets; (B) has a slewing or luffing capability; (C) has a lifting capacity of at least 1,000 metric tons; and (D) conducts lifting operations to construct or remove offshore facilities or subsea infrastructure or to install and uninstall component parts or materials from offshore facilities or subsea infrastructure. (2) Lifting operations The term lifting operations (3) Platform jacket The term platform jacket . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 551 55123. Installation vessels. . (c) Inventory Section 12138(b) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in the heading, by striking the period and inserting , and Installation. (2) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows: (1) In general The Secretary of Transportation shall develop, maintain, and periodically update an inventory of vessels that are— (A) documented under this chapter; (B) at least 200 feet in length; (C) have the capability to lay, maintain, or repair a submarine cable, without regard to whether a particular vessel is classed as a cable ship or cable vessel; and (D) installation vessels within the meaning of such term in section 55123. ; and (3) by amending paragraph (2)(B) to read as follows: (B) the abilities and limitations of the vessel with respect to— (i) in the case of a vessel required to be inventoried under paragraph (1)(A), laying, maintaining, and repairing a submarine cable; and (ii) in the case of a vessel required to be inventoried under paragraph (1)(B), installing platform jackets; and . (d) Notice of modification or revocation No later than 30 days after the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security, acting through the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection, shall issue a notice, including an opportunity for public comment, on the modification or revocation of Letter Rulings 101925, 108442, 113841, 114435, 115185, 115218, 115311, 115487, 115522, 115771, 115938, 116078, H004242 with respect to the application of the section 55102 of title 46, Shipping, United States Code, to certain offshore operations. 306. Advisory committees (a) National Offshore Safety Advisory Committee; representation Section 15106(c)(3) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subparagraph (C), by striking mineral and oil operations, including geophysical services operations (2) in subparagraph (D), by striking exploration and recovery (3) in subparagraph (E), by striking engaged in diving services related to offshore construction, inspection, and maintenance providing diving services to the offshore industry (4) in subparagraph (F), by striking engaged in safety and training services related to offshore exploration and construction providing safety and training services to the offshore industry (5) in subparagraph (G), by striking engaged in pipelaying services related to offshore construction providing subsea engineering, construction, or remotely operated vehicle support to the offshore industry (6) in subparagraph (H), by striking mineral and energy (7) in subparagraph (I), by striking national environmental entities entities providing environmental protection, compliance, or response services to the offshore industry (8) in subparagraph (J), by striking deepwater ports entities engaged in offshore oil exploration and production on the Outer Continental Shelf adjacent to Alaska (b) Advisory committees; testimony Section 15109(j)(4) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (C) Testimony The members of a committee shall be available to testify before appropriate committees of the Congress with respect to the advice, reports, and recommendations submitted under paragraph (2). . (c) National Maritime Transportation System Advisory Committee (1) In general Chapter 555 55502. National Maritime Transportation System Advisory Committee (a) Establishment There is established a National Maritime Transportation System Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as the Committee (b) Function The Committee shall advise the Secretary of Transportation on matters relating to the United States maritime transportation system and its seamless integration with other segments of the transportation system, including the viability of the United States Merchant Marine. (c) Membership (1) In general The Committee shall consist of 25 members appointed by the Secretary of Transportation in accordance with this section and section 15109. (2) Expertise Each member of the Committee shall have particular expertise, knowledge, and experience in matters relating to the function of the Committee. (3) Representation Members of the Committee shall be appointed as follows: (A) At least 1 member shall represent the Environmental Protection Agency. (B) At least 1 member shall represent the Department of Commerce. (C) At least 1 member shall represent the Army Corps of Engineers. (D) At least 1 member shall represent the Coast Guard. (E) At least 1 member shall represent Customs and Border Protection. (F) At least 1 member shall represent State and local governmental entities. (G) Additional members shall represent private sector entities that reflect a cross-section of maritime industries, including port and water stakeholders, academia, and labor. (H) The Secretary may appoint additional representatives from other Federal agencies as the Secretary considers appropriate. (4) Administration For purposes of section 15109— (A) the Committee shall be treated as a committee established under chapter 151; and (B) the Secretary of Transportation shall fulfill all duties and responsibilities and have all authorities of the Secretary of Homeland Security with regard to the Committee. . (2) Treatment of existing committee Notwithstanding any other provision of law— (A) an advisory committee substantially similar to the National Maritime Transportation System Advisory Committee established by this section and that was in force or in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act, including the charter, membership, and other aspects of such committee, may remain in force or in effect for the 2-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this section; and (B) during such 2-year period— (i) requirements relating the National Maritime Transportation System Advisory Committee established by such section shall be treated as satisfied by such substantially similar advisory committee; and (ii) the enactment of this section shall not be the basis— (I) to deem, find, or declare such committee, including the charter, membership, and other aspects thereof, void, not in force, or not in effect; (II) to suspend the activities of such committee; or (III) to bar the members of such committee from a meeting. (3) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 555 55502. National Maritime Transportation System Advisory Committee. . (4) Repeal Section 55603 of title 46, United States Code, and the item relating to that section in the analysis for chapter 556 of that title, are repealed. (d) Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee (1) In general Title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking section 9307 and inserting the following: 9307. Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee (a) Establishment There is established a Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as the Committee (b) Function The Committee— (1) may review proposed Great Lakes pilotage regulations and policies and make recommendations to the Secretary that the Committee considers appropriate; and (2) may advise, consult with, report to, and make recommendations to the Secretary on matters relating to Great Lakes pilotage. (c) Membership (1) In general The Committee shall consist of 7 members appointed by the Secretary in accordance with this section and section 15109. (2) Expertise Each member of the Committee shall have particular expertise, knowledge, and experience in matters relating to the function of the Committee. (3) Representation Members of the Committee shall be appointed as follows: (A) The President of each of the 3 Great Lakes pilotage districts, or the President’s representative. (B) At least 1 member shall represent the interests of vessel operators that contract for Great Lakes pilotage services. (C) At least 1 member shall represent the interests of Great Lakes ports. (D) At least 1 member shall represent the interests of shippers whose cargoes are transported through Great Lakes ports. (E) At least 1 member shall have a background in finance or accounting and must have been recommended to the Secretary by a unanimous vote of the other members of the Committee. (4) Administration For purposes of section 15109, the Committee shall be treated as a committee established under chapter 151. . (2) Treatment of existing committee Notwithstanding any other provision of law— (A) an advisory committee substantially similar to the Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee established by section 9307 of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this section, and that was in force or in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act, including the charter, membership, and other aspects of the committee, may remain in force or in effect for a period of 2 years from the date of enactment of this Act; and (B) during such 2-year period— (i) requirements relating to the Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee established by section 9307 of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this section, shall be treated as satisfied by the substantially similar advisory committee; and (ii) the enactment of this section and the amendments made by this section shall not be the basis— (I) to deem, find, or declare such committee, including the charter, membership, and other aspects thereof, void, not in force, or not in effect; (II) to suspend the activities of such committee; or (III) to bar the members of such committee from a meeting. (e) Technical corrections Section 15109 of title 46 is amended by inserting or to which this chapter applies committee established under this chapter 307. Expired maritime liens Section 31343(e) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) by inserting (1) A notice (2) by inserting after paragraph (1), as so designated by this section, the following: (2) On expiration of a notice of claim of lien under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall remove such expired notice. . 308. Offshore navigation (a) Port access routes Section 70003(e) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (3), by striking continues; and continues; (2) in paragraph (4), by striking the period at the end and inserting ; and (3) by adding at the end the following: (5) shall, unless otherwise authorized by the Secretary, and notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, require— (A) a 2-nautical-mile buffer between the parallel outer or seaward boundary of a traffic lane and any offshore structure affixed to the submerged land of the Outer Continental Shelf; and (B) a 5-nautical-mile buffer between the entry or exit of any traffic separation scheme and any offshore structure. . (b) Navigation; conflict mitigation Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall implement the recommendations of the Atlantic Coast Port Access Route Study, docket number USCG–2011–0351, dated February 24, 2016, including any recommendations in the appendices thereto. (c) Fairways Not later than July 1, 2021, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall conduct a review of navigation on the East Coast of the United States and submit recommendations for new fairways on such coast to facilitate commerce to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. (d) Port Access Route Studies completion dates The Commandant of the Coast Guard shall complete— (1) the Chuckchi Sea, Bering Strait and Bering Sea Port Access Route Study not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act; and (2) the Alaskan Arctic Coast Port Access Route Study not later than 5 years after the date of the enactment of this Act. 309. Training; emergency response providers (a) Security plan implementation grants Section 70107 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), by striking law enforcement personnel emergency response providers (2) in subsection (b)(8), by striking law enforcement personnel— emergency response providers— (3) in subsection (c)(2)(C), by striking law enforcement agency personnel emergency response providers (b) Credentialing for State and local support Section 70132 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a), by striking law enforcement personnel— emergency response providers— (2) in subsection (b), by striking law enforcement personnel emergency response providers (3) by adding at the end the following: (d) Definition For the purposes of this section, the term emergency response providers 6 U.S.C. 101 . 310. Aiming a laser pointer at a vessel (a) In general Subchapter II of chapter 700 70014. Aiming a laser pointer at a vessel (a) Prohibition It shall be unlawful to cause the beam of a laser pointer to strike a vessel operating on the navigable waters of the United States. (b) Exceptions This section shall not apply to a member or element of the Department of Defense or Department of Homeland Security acting in an official capacity for the purpose of research, development, operations, testing, or training. (c) Laser pointer defined In this section the term laser pointer . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for such chapter is amended by adding at the end of the items relating to such subchapter the following: 70014. Aiming a laser pointer at a vessel. . 311. Maritime transportation assessment Section 55501(e) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in paragraph (2), by striking an assessment of the condition a conditions and performance analysis (2) in paragraph (4), by striking ; and (3) in paragraph (5) by striking the period and inserting ; and (4) by adding at the end the following: (6) a compendium of the Federal programs engaged in the maritime transportation system. . 312. Safety of special activities (a) In general Title 46, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 70005 the following: 70006. Safety of special activities (a) In general The Secretary may establish a safety zone to address special activities in the exclusive economic zone. (b) Definitions In this section: (1) The term safety zone (2) The term special activities (A) space activities, including launch and reentry, as those terms are defined in section 50902 of title 51, carried out by United States citizens; and (B) offshore energy development activities, as described in section 8(p)(1)(C) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act ( 43 U.S.C. 1337(p)(1)(C) (3) The term United States citizen eligible owners (4) The term fixed platform . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 700 section 70005 70006. Safety of special activities. . (c) Regulations (1) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall establish regulations to implement this section. (2) Alignment with other regulations Such regulations shall align with subchapter C of chapter III of title 14, Code of Federal Regulations. 313. Engine cut-off switches; use requirement (a) In general Section 4312 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) by redesignating subsections (b), (c), and (d) as subsections (c), (d), and (e), respectively; and (2) by inserting after subsection (a) the following: (b) Use requirement (1) In general An individual operating a covered recreational vessel shall use an engine cut-off switch link while operating on plane or above displacement speed. (2) Exceptions The requirement under paragraph (1) shall not apply if— (A) the main helm of the covered vessel is installed within an enclosed cabin; or (B) the vessel does not have an engine cut-off switch and is not required to have one under subsection (a). . (b) Civil penalty Section 4311 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by— (1) redesignating subsections (c), (d), (e), (f), and (g) as subsections (d), (e), (f), (g), and (h), respectively; and (2) inserting after subsection (b) the following: (c) A person violating section 4312(b) of this title is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than— (1) $100 for the first offense; (2) $250 for the second offense; and (3) $500 for any subsequent offense. . (c) Effective date The amendments made in subsections (a) and (b) shall take effect 90 days after the date of the enactment of this section, unless the Commandant of the Coast Guard, prior to the date that is 90 days after the date of the enactment of this section, determines that the use requirement enacted in subsection (a) would not promote recreational boating safety. 314. Exemptions and equivalents (a) In general Section 4305 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking the heading and inserting the following: 4305. Exemptions and equivalents ; (2) by striking If the Secretary (a) Exemptions If the Secretary ; and (3) by adding at the end the following: (b) Equivalents The Secretary may accept a substitution for associated equipment performance or other safety standards for a recreational vessel if the substitution provides an equivalent level of safety. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 43 4305. Exemptions and equivalents. . 315. Abandoned seafarers fund Section 11113 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (a)(2), by striking may be appropriated to the Secretary shall be available to the Secretary without further appropriation and shall remain available until expended (2) by striking paragraph (4) of subsection (c). 316. Ice patrol; payments Section 80301(c) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking operating expenses of the Coast Guard. operations and support of the Coast Guard and shall remain available until expended. 317. Security plans; reviews Section 70103 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (b)(3), by inserting and updates Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans (2) in subsection (c)(4), by inserting or update plan 318. Waiver of navigation and vessel inspection laws Section 501(a) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking On request (1) In general On request ; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (2) Explanation Not later than 24 hours after making a request under paragraph (1), the Secretary of Defense shall submit to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure and Armed Services of the House of Representatives and the Committees on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and Armed Services of the Senate a written explanation of the circumstances requiring such a waiver in the interest of national defense, including a confirmation that there are insufficient qualified vessels to meet the needs of national defense without such a waiver. . 319. Requirement for small shipyard grantees Section 54101(d) of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) by striking Grants awarded (1) In general Grants awarded ; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (2) Buy America (A) In general Subject to subparagraph (B), no funds may be obligated by the Administrator of the Maritime Administration under this section, unless each product and material purchased with those funds (including products and materials purchased by a grantee), and including any commercially available off-the-shelf item, is— (i) an unmanufactured article, material, or supply that has been mined or produced in the United States; or (ii) a manufactured article, material, or supply that has been manufactured in the United States substantially all from articles, materials, or supplies mined, produced, or manufactured in the United States. (B) Exceptions (i) In general Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), the requirements of that subparagraph shall not apply with respect to a particular product or material if such Administrator determines— (I) that the application of those requirements would be inconsistent with the public interest; (II) that such product or material is not available in the United States in sufficient and reasonably available quantities, of a satisfactory quality, or on a timely basis; or (III) that inclusion of a domestic product or material will increase the cost of that product or material by more than 25 percent, with respect to a certain contract between a grantee and that grantee's supplier. (ii) Federal Register A determination made by such Administrator under this subparagraph shall be published in the Federal Register. (C) Definitions In this paragraph: (i) Commercially available off-the-shelf item The term commercially available off-the-shelf item (I) any item of supply (including construction material) that is— (aa) a commercial item, as defined by section 2.101 of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations; and (bb) sold in substantial quantities in the commercial marketplace; and (II) does not include bulk cargo, as that term is defined in section 40102(4) of this title, such as agricultural products and petroleum products. (ii) Product or Material The term product or material (iii) United States The term United States . 320. Independent study on the United States Merchant Marine Academy (a) In general Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Transportation shall seek to enter into an agreement with the National Academy of Public Administration (referred to in this section as the “Academy”) to carry out the activities described in this section. (b) Study elements In accordance with the agreement described in subsection (a), the Academy shall conduct a study of the United States Merchant Marine Academy that consists of the following: (1) A comprehensive assessment of the United States Merchant Marine Academy’s systems, training, facilities, infrastructure, information technology, and stakeholder engagement. (2) Identification of needs and opportunities for modernization to help the United States Merchant Marine Academy keep pace with more modern campuses. (3) Development of an action plan for the United States Merchant Marine Academy with specific recommendations for— (A) improvements or updates relating to the opportunities described in paragraph (2); and (B) systemic changes needed to help the United States Merchant Marine Academy achieve its mission of inspiring and educating the next generation of the mariner workforce on a long-term basis. (c) Deadline and report Not later than 1 year after the date of the agreement described in subsection (a), the Academy shall prepare and submit to the Administrator of the Maritime Administration a report containing the action plan described in subsection (b)(3), including specific findings and recommendations. 321. Centers of excellence for domestic maritime workforce training and education Section 54102 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in subsection (b), by inserting or subsection (d) designated under subsection (a) (2) by adding at the end the following: (d) State Maritime Academy The Secretary of Transportation shall designate each State maritime academy, as defined in section 51102(4) of this title, as a center of excellence under this section. . 322. Renewal of merchant mariner licenses and documents Section 7507 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: (d) Renewal With respect to any renewal of an existing merchant mariner credential that is not an extension under subsection (a) or (b), such credential shall begin the day after the expiration of the credential holder’s existing credential. . IV Miscellaneous 401. Coastwise trade (a) In general The Commandant of the Coast Guard shall review the adequacy of and continuing need for provisions in title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, that require a United States vessel documented under chapter 121 (b) Briefing Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall provide to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a briefing on the findings of the review required under subsection (a) and a discussion of how existing laws and regulations could be amended to ensure the safety of vessels described in subsection (a) while infringing as little as possible on commerce. 402. Unmanned maritime systems (a) Assessment (1) In general The Commandant of the Coast Guard, acting through the Blue Technology Center of Expertise, shall regularly assess available unmanned maritime systems for potential use to support missions of the Coast Guard. (2) Consultation The Commandant shall make the assessment required under paragraph (1) after consultation with the Department of Defense, other Federal agencies, the academic sector, and developers and manufacturers of unmanned maritime systems. (b) Report (1) In general Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and biennially thereafter, the Commandant shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the actual and potential effects of the use of then-existing unmanned maritime systems on the mission effectiveness of the Coast Guard. (2) Contents Each report submitted under paragraph (1) shall include the following: (A) An inventory of current unmanned maritime systems used by the Coast Guard, an overview of such usage, and a discussion of the mission effectiveness of such systems, including any benefits realized or risks or negative aspects of such usage. (B) A prioritized list of Coast Guard mission requirements that could be met with additional unmanned maritime systems, and the estimated costs of acquiring and operating such systems. (c) Definitions In this section: (1) Unmanned maritime systems (A) In general The term unmanned maritime systems (B) Examples Such term includes the following: (i) Unmanned undersea vehicles. (ii) Unmanned surface vehicles. (iii) Unmanned aerial vehicles. (iv) Autonomous underwater vehicles. (v) Autonomous surface vehicles. (vi) Autonomous aerial vehicles. (2) Available unmanned maritime systems The term available unmanned maritime systems 403. Expedited transfer in cases of sexual assault; dependents of members of the Coast Guard Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall establish a policy to allow the transfer of a member of the Coast Guard whose dependent is the victim of sexual assault perpetrated by a member of the Armed Forces who is not related to the victim. 404. Towing vessels; operation outside the boundary line (a) Interim exemption A towing vessel to which this section applies is exempt from any additional requirements of subtitle II of title 46, United States Code, and chapter I of title 33 and chapter I of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, that would result solely from such vessel operating outside the Boundary Line (as such term is defined in section 103 of title 46, United States Code) if such vessel— (1) is listed as a response vessel on a vessel response plan and is operating outside the Boundary Line solely to perform duties of a response vessel; or (2) is operating outside the Boundary Line solely to perform operations necessary to escort a vessel with limited maneuverability. (b) Applicability This section applies to a towing vessel— (1) that is subject to inspection under chapter 33 (2) with only Lakes, Bays, and Sounds Rivers (3) (A) that, with respect to a vessel that is described in subsection (a)(1), is listed— (i) on a vessel response plan under part 155 of title 33, Code of Federal Regulations, on the date of approval of the vessel response plan; or (ii) by name or reference in the vessel response plan’s geographic-specific appendix on the date of approval of the vessel response plan; or (B) that, with respect to a vessel described in subsection (a)(2), is regularly engaged in harbor assist operations, including the docking, undocking, mooring, unmooring, and escorting of vessels with limited maneuverability. (c) Limitations A vessel exempted under subsection (a) is subject to the following operating limitations: (1) Response vessels The voyage of a vessel exempted under subsection (a)(1) shall— (A) be less than 12 hours, or in the case of a voyage in the territorial waters of Alaska, Guam, Hawaii, and American Samoa, have sufficient manning as determined by the Secretary; and (B) originate and end in the inspection zone of a single Officer In-Charge, Marine Inspection, as defined in section 3305(d)(4) of title 46, United States Code. (2) Escort vessels The voyage of a vessel exempted under subsection (a)(2) shall— (A) be less than 12 hours in total duration; (B) originate and end in the inspection zone of a single Officer In-Charge, Marine Inspection, as such term is defined in section 3305(d)(4) of title 46, United States Code; and (C) occur no further than 10 nautical miles from the Boundary Line. (d) Termination The interim exemption provided under subsection (a) shall terminate on July 22, 2023. (e) Restriction The Officer In-Charge, Marine Inspection, as defined in section 3305(d)(4) of title 46, United States Code, for an inspection zone may restrict operations under the exemptions provided under subsection (a) for safety purposes. (f) Briefing Not later than July 22, 2022, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate regarding the following: (1) The impacts of the interim exemptions provided under this section. (2) Any safety concerns regarding the expiration of such interim exemptions. (3) Whether such interim exemptions should be extended or made permanent in the interests of safety. 405. Coast Guard authorities study (a) In general The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall seek to enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act under which the Academy shall prepare an assessment of Coast Guard authorities. (b) Assessment The assessment under subsection (a) shall provide— (1) an examination of emerging issues that may require Coast Guard oversight, regulation, or action; (2) a description of potential limitations and shortcomings of relying on current Coast Guard authorities to address emerging issues; and (3) an overview of adjustments and additions that could be made to existing Coast Guard authorities to fully address emerging issues. (c) Report to the Congress Not later than 1 year after entering into an arrangement with the Secretary under subsection (a), the National Academy of Sciences shall submit the assessment under this section to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. (d) Emerging issues In this section, the term emerging issues (1) the introduction of new technologies in the maritime domain; (2) the advent of new processes or operational activities in the maritime domain; and (3) changes in the use of navigable waterways. 406. Cloud computing strategy Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a detailed description of the Coast Guard’s strategy to implement cloud computing for the entire Coast Guard, including— (1) the goals and acquisition strategies for all proposed enterprise-wide cloud computing service procurements; (2) a strategy to sustain competition and innovation throughout the period of performance of each contract for procurement of cloud-computing goods and services for the Coast Guard, including defining opportunities for multiple cloud-service providers and insertion of new technologies; (3) an assessment of potential threats and security vulnerabilities of the strategy, and plans to mitigate such risks; and (4) an estimate of the cost and timeline to implement cloud computing service for all Coast Guard computing. 407. Report on effects of climate change on Coast Guard (a) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on vulnerabilities of Coast Guard installations and requirements resulting from climate change over the next 20 years. (b) Elements The report under subsection (a) shall include the following: (1) A list of the 10 most vulnerable Coast Guard installations based on the effects of climate change, including rising sea tides, increased flooding, drought, desertification, wildfires, thawing permafrost, or any other categories the Commandant determines necessary. (2) An overview of— (A) mitigations that may be necessary to ensure the continued operational viability and to increase the resiliency of the identified vulnerable installations; and (B) the cost of such mitigations. (3) A discussion of the climate-change-related effects on the Coast Guard, including— (A) the increase in the frequency of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions; and (B) campaign plans, contingency plans, and operational posture of the Coast Guard. (4) An overview of mitigations that may be necessary to ensure mission resiliency and the cost of such mitigations. (c) Form The report required under subsection (a) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but may contain a classified annex. 408. Shore infrastructure (a) In general Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall— (1) develop a plan to standardize Coast Guard facility condition assessments; (2) establish shore infrastructure performance goals, measures, and baselines to track the effectiveness of maintenance and repair investments and provide feedback on progress made; (3) develop a process to routinely align the Coast Guard shore infrastructure portfolio with mission needs, including disposing of unneeded assets; (4) establish guidance for planning boards to document inputs, deliberations, and project prioritization decisions for infrastructure maintenance projects; (5) employ models for Coast Guard infrastructure asset lines for— (A) predicting the outcome of investments in shore infrastructure; (B) analyzing tradeoffs; and (C) optimizing decisions among competing investments; (6) include supporting details about competing project alternatives and report tradeoffs in congressional budget requests and related reports; and (7) explore the development of real property management expertise within the Coast Guard workforce, including members of the Senior Executive Service. (b) Briefing Not later than December 31, 2020, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the status of the actions required under subsection (a). 409. Physical access control system report Not later 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act and annually for each of the 4 years thereafter, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report regarding the status of the Coast Guard’s compliance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD–12) and Federal Information Processing Standard 201 (FIPS–201), including— (1) the status of Coast Guard efforts to field a comprehensive Physical Access Control System at Coast Guard installations and locations necessary to bring the Service into compliance with HSPD–12 and FIPS–201B; (2) the status of the selection of a technological solution; (3) the estimated phases and timeframe to complete the implementation of such a system; and (4) the estimated cost for each phase of the project. 410. Coastwise endorsements (a) Safari voyager (1) In general Notwithstanding sections 12112 and 12132 of title 46, United States Code, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise endorsement for the vessel Safari Voyager (International Maritime Organization number 8963753). (2) Revocation of effectiveness of certificate A certificate of documentation issued under paragraph (1) is revoked on the date of the sale of the vessel or the entity that owns the vessel. (b) Pacific provider (1) In general Notwithstanding sections 12112 and 12132 of title 46, United States Code, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating may issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise endorsement for the vessel Pacific Provider (United States official number 597967). (2) Revocation of effectiveness of certificate A certificate of documentation issued under paragraph (1) is revoked on the date of the sale of the vessel or the entity that owns the vessel. (c) Documentation of LNG tankers Section 7(b)(3) of the America’s Cup Act of 2011 ( Public Law 112–61 (1) striking The coastwise endorsement issued No coastwise endorsement shall be issued (2) striking shall expire on after (d) Replacement vessel Notwithstanding section 208(g)(5) of the American Fisheries Act ( Public Law 105–277 16 U.S.C. 1851 411. Polar security cutter acquisition report Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit a report to the Committees on Transportation and Infrastructure and Armed Services of the House of Representatives, and the Committees on Commerce, Science and Transportation and Armed Services of the Senate on— (1) the extent to which specifications, key drawings, and detail design for the Polar Security Cutter are complete before the start of construction; (2) the extent to which Polar Security Cutter hulls numbers one, two, and three are science ready; and (3) what actions will be taken to ensure that Polar Security Cutter hull number four is science capable, as described in the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine’s Committee on Polar Icebreaker Cost Assessment letter report entitled Acquisition and Operation of Polar Icebreakers: Fulfilling the Nation’s Needs 412. Sense of the Congress on the need for a new Great Lakes icebreaker (a) Findings The Congress finds the following: (1) The Great Lakes shipping industry is crucial to the American economy, including the U.S. manufacturing base, providing important economic and national security benefits. (2) A recent study found that the Great Lakes shipping industry supports 237,000 jobs and tens of billions of dollars in economic activity. (3) United States Coast Guard icebreaking capacity is crucial to full utilization of the Great Lakes shipping system, as during the winter icebreaking season up to 15 percent of annual cargo loads are delivered and many industries would have to reduce their production if Coast Guard icebreaking services were not provided. (4) Six of the Coast Guard’s nine icebreaking cutters in the Great Lakes are more than 30 years old and are frequently inoperable during the winter icebreaking season, including those that have completed a recent service life extension program. (5) During the previous 10 winters, Coast Guard Great Lakes icebreaking cutters have been inoperable for an average of 65 cutter-days during the winter icebreaking season, with this annual lost capability exceeding 100 cutter-days, with a high of 246 cutter-days during the winter of 2017–2018. (6) The 2019 ice season provides further proof that current Coast Guard icebreaking capacity is inadequate for the needs of the Great Lakes shipping industry, as only six of the nine icebreaking cutters are operational and millions of tons of cargo was not loaded or was delayed due to inadequate Coast Guard icebreaking assets during a historically average winter for Great Lakes ice coverage. (7) The Congress has authorized the Coast Guard to acquire a new Great Lakes icebreaker as capable as Coast Guard Cutter MACKINAW (WLBB–30), the most capable Great Lakes icebreaker, and $10 million has been appropriated to fund the design and initial acquisition work for this icebreaker. (8) The Coast Guard has not initiated a new acquisition program for this Great Lakes icebreaker. (b) Sense of the Congress It is the sense of the Congress of the United States that a new Coast Guard icebreaker as capable as Coast Guard Cutter MACKINAW (WLBB–30) is needed on the Great Lakes and the Coast Guard should acquire this icebreaker as soon as possible. 413. Cargo preference study (a) In general The Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct an audit regarding the enforcement of the United States cargo preference program under section 55305 of title 46, United States Code. (b) Scope The audit conducted under subsection (a) shall include— (1) a description of the agencies and organizations required to comply with cargo preference requirements; (2) an analysis of the compliance or noncompliance of such agencies and organizations with such requirements, including details of— (A) the total amount of international oceangoing cargo shipped by each such agency and organization; and (B) the percentage of such cargo shipped on cargo preference-compliant vessels; and (3) an overview of enforcement activities undertaken by the Maritime Administration from October 14, 2008, until the date of the enactment of this Act, including a listing of all bills of lading collected by the Maritime Administration during that period. (c) Report Not later than one year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Comptroller General shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report detailing the results of the audit required under subsection (a) and providing recommendations related to such results. 414. Insider Threat program Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on a plan to expand the Coast Guard Insider Threat program to include the monitoring of all Coast Guard devices, including mobile devices. 415. Fishing safety grants The cap on the Federal share of the cost of any activity carried out with a grant under subsections (i) and (j) of section 4502 of title 46, United States Code, as in effect prior to the date of enactment of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018, shall apply to any funds appropriated under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2017 ( Public Law 115–31 416. Plans for demonstration programs (a) In general The Commandant of the Coast Guard shall develop plans for demonstration programs that will assess the feasibility of using unmanned aircraft systems for surveillance of marine protected areas, the transit zone, and the Arctic to— (1) gather regular maritime domain awareness of such areas; (2) ensure sufficient response to illegal activities in marine protected areas, the transit zone, and the Arctic; and (3) collaborate with local, State, and Tribal authorities and international partners for surveillance permissions over their waters. (b) Requirements The plans required under subsection (a) shall include— (1) discussion of the feasibility, safety, and cost effectiveness of using unmanned aerial vehicles for the purposes of enhancing maritime domain awareness in marine protected areas; (2) coordination and communication plans to facilitate coordination with other relevant Federal, State, Tribal, and local agencies, and international partners; (3) consideration of the potential impacts of such a demonstration program on the Coast Guard’s existing unmanned vehicle programs; (4) an overview of areas that could be surveilled under such program; (5) a timeline and technical milestones for the implementation of such a program; (6) resource requirements to implement and sustain such a program; and (7) the operational benefits of such a program. (c) Report Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant shall brief the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the plans required under subsection (a). (d) Definitions In this section: (1) Arctic The term Arctic 15 U.S.C. 4111 (2) Marine protected area The term marine protected area (3) Transit zone The term transit zone 6 U.S.C. 223(a)(8) (4) Unmanned aircraft system The term unmanned aircraft system 49 U.S.C. 40101 417. Waters deemed not navigable waters of the United States for certain purposes The Coalbank Slough in Coos Bay, Oregon, is deemed to not be navigable waters of the United States for all purposes of subchapter J of Chapter I of title 33, Code of Federal Regulations. 418. Coast Guard housing; status and authorities briefing Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall provide to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a briefing on Coast Guard housing, including— (1) a description of the material condition of Coast Guard housing facilities; (2) the amount of current Coast Guard housing construction and deferred maintenance backlogs; (3) an overview of the manner in which the Coast Guard manages and maintains housing facilities; (4) a discussion of whether reauthorizing housing authorities for the Coast Guard similar to those provided in section 208 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 1996 ( Public Law 104–324 (5) recommendations regarding how the Congress could adjust those authorities to prevent mismanagement of Coast Guard housing facilities. 419. Conveyance of Coast Guard property at Point Spencer, Alaska (1) Section 533 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2016 ( Public Law 114–120 (f) Remedial actions For purposes of the transfers under this section, the remedial actions required under section 120(h) of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 ( 42 U.S.C. 9620(h) . (2) Section 534(a) of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2016 ( Public Law 114–120 (A) striking Nothing After the date on which the Secretary of the Interior conveys land under section 533 of this Act, nothing (B) by inserting , with respect to contaminants on such land prior to the date on which the land is conveyed 420. Prohibition (a) In general The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall not establish anchorage grounds on the Hudson River between Yonkers, New York, and Kingston, New York, under section 7 of the Rivers and Harbors Appropriations Act of 1915 ( 33 U.S.C. 471 chapter 700 (b) Restriction The Commandant may not establish or expand any anchorages outside of the reach on the Hudson River described in subsection (a) without first providing notice to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate not later than 180 days prior to the establishment or expansion of any such anchorages. 421. Certificate extensions (a) In general Subchapter I of chapter 121 12108. Authority to extend the duration of vessel certificates (a) Certificates Provided a vessel is in compliance with inspection requirements in section 3313, the Secretary of the Department in which in the Coast Guard is operating may, if he makes the determination described in subsection (b), extend for a period of not more than one year an expiring–— (1) certificate of documentation issued for a vessel under chapter 121; or (2) certificate of financial responsibility required for a vessel by section 1016(a) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 ( 33 U.S.C. 2716(a) 42 U.S.C. 9608 (b) Determination The determination referred to in subsection (a) is a determination that such extension is required to enable the Coast Guard to— (1) eliminate a backlog in processing applications for such certificates; or (2) act in response to a national emergency or natural disaster. (c) Manner of extension Any extension granted under this section may be granted to individual vessels or to a specifically identified group of vessels. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for such subchapter is amended by adding at the end the following: 12108. Authority to extend the duration of vessel certificates. . 422. Homeland security rotational cybersecurity research program at the Coast Guard Academy (a) In general Subtitle E of title VIII of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 ( 6 U.S.C. 411 846. Rotational cybersecurity research program To enhance the Department’s cybersecurity capacity, the Secretary may establish a rotational research, development, and training program for— (1) detail to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (including the national cybersecurity and communications integration center authorized by section 2209) of Coast Guard Academy graduates and faculty; and (2) detail to the Coast Guard Academy, as faculty, of individuals with expertise and experience in cybersecurity who are employed by— (A) the Agency (including the center); (B) the Directorate of Science and Technology; or (C) institutions that have been designated by the Department as a Center of Excellence for Cyber Defense, or the equivalent. . (b) Clerical amendment The table of contents in section 1(b) of such Act is amended by adding at the end of the items relating to such subtitle the following: Sec. 846. Rotational cybersecurity research program. . 423. Towing vessel inspection fees Notwithstanding section 9701 of title 31, United States Code, and section 2110 of title 46, United States Code, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating may not charge an inspection fee for towing vessels required to have a Certificate of Inspection under subchapter M of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations, until— (1) the completion of the review required under section 815 of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 (2) the promulgation of regulations to establish specific inspection fees for such vessels. 424. Subrogated claims (a) In general Section 1012(b) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 ( 33 U.S.C. 2712(b) (1) by striking The (1) In general The ; and (2) by adding at the end the following: (2) Subrogated rights Except for a guarantor claim pursuant to a defense under section 1016(f)(1), Fund compensation of any claim by an insurer or other indemnifier of a responsible party or injured third party is subject to the subrogated rights of that responsible party or injured third party to such compensation. . (b) Effective date This section and the amendments made by this section shall take effect 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act. 425. Loan provisions under Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (a) In general Section 1013 of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 ( 33 U.S.C. 2713 (b) Conforming amendments Section 1012(a) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 ( 33 U.S.C. 2712(a) (1) in paragraph (4), by adding and (2) in paragraph (5)(D), by striking ; and (3) by striking paragraph (6). 426. Liability limits Section 1004(d)(2) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 ( 33 U.S.C. 2704(d)(2) (2) Deepwater ports and associated vessels (A) In general If the Secretary determines that the design and operation of a deepwater port results in a lower risk of oil pollution than the design and operation of such deepwater ports as existed on the date of the enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2019, the Secretary may initiate a rulemaking proceeding to lower the limitation of liability under subsection (a)(4) for such deepwater port and each other deepwater port which achieves such lower risk level through such port’s design and operation. (B) Risk determination In determining the risk of oil pollution, the Secretary shall take into account, as applicable— (i) the size of the deepwater ports and associated vessels; (ii) oil storage capacity of the deepwater ports and associated vessels; (iii) oil handling capacity of the deepwater ports and associated vessels; (iv) oil throughput; (v) proximity to sensitive areas; (vi) type of oil handled; (vii) history of oil discharges; and (viii) such other factors relevant to the oil pollution risks posed by the class or category of deepwater port and associated vessels as the Secretary determines appropriate. (C) Limit of liability; transportation of oil For deepwater ports used in connection with the transportation of oil, the Secretary may establish a limitation of liability under subparagraph (A) of not more than $350,000,000 and not less than $50,000,000. (D) Limit of liability; transportation of natural gas For deepwater ports used in connection with the transportation of natural gas, the Secretary may establish a limitation of liability under subparagraph (A) of not more than $350,000,000 and not less than $1,000,000. . 427. Report on drug interdiction in the Caribbean basin (a) Report Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on drug interdiction in the Caribbean basin. (b) Content Such report shall include— (1) a statement of the Coast Guard mission requirements for drug interdiction in the Caribbean basin; (2) the number of maritime surveillance hours and Coast Guard assets used in each of fiscal years 2017 through 2019 to counter the illicit trafficking of drugs and other related threats throughout the Caribbean basin; and (3) a determination of whether such hours and assets satisfied the Coast Guard mission requirements for drug interdiction in the Caribbean basin. 428. Voting Requirement Section 305(i)(1)(G)(iv) of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1855(i)(1)(G)(iv) (iv) Voting Requirement The panel may act only by the affirmative vote of at least five of its members. . V Reorganization 501. Uninspected commercial fishing industry vessels (a) In general Subtitle II of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking chapter 45 and inserting the following: 45 Uninspected Commercial Industry Vessels Sec. 4501. Application. 4502. Definitions. 4503. Safety standards. 4504. Vessel construction. 4505. Operating stability. 4506. Training. 4507. Vessel certification. 4508. Alternate safety compliance program. 4509. Substitute safety compliance program. 4510. Enhanced substitute safety compliance program. 4511. Prohibited acts. 4512. Termination of unsafe operations. 4513. Penalties. 4514. Compliance; Secretary actions. 4515. Exemptions. 4516. Regulations; considerations and limitations. 4517. Fishing safety grants. 4501. Application (a) In general Except as provided in subsection (b), this chapter applies to an uninspected vessel that is a fishing vessel, fish processing vessel, or fish tender vessel. (b) Carriage of bulk dangerous cargoes This chapter does not apply to the carriage of bulk dangerous cargoes regulated under chapter 37. 4502. Definitions In this chapter: (1) The term accountable vessel (A) (i) was built after December 31, 1988, or undergoes a major conversion completed after that date; and (ii) operates with more than 16 individuals on board; or (B) in the case of a fish tender vessel, engages in the Aleutian trade. (2) The term auxiliary craft (3) (A) The term built (i) The vessel’s keel is laid. (ii) Construction identifiable with the vessel has begun and assembly of that vessel has commenced comprising of at least 50 metric tons or one percent of the estimated mass of all structural material, whichever is less. (B) In the case of a vessel greater than 79 feet in overall length, for purposes of subparagraph (A)(i), a keel is deemed to be laid when a marine surveyor affirms that a structure adequate for serving as a keel for such vessel is in place and identified for use in the construction of such vessel. (4) The term subject vessel (A) operates beyond 3 nautical miles from the baseline from which the territorial sea of the United States is measured or beyond 3 nautical miles from the coastline of the Great Lakes; (B) operates with more than 16 individuals on board; or (C) in the case of a fish tender vessel, engages in the Aleutian trade. (5) The term substitute-eligible vessel (A) a subject vessel; (B) at least 50 feet overall in length, and not more than 180 feet overall in length as listed on the vessel’s certificate of documentation or certificate of number; and (C) built after February 8, 2016. 4503. Safety standards (a) In general The Secretary shall prescribe regulations that require that each vessel to which this chapter applies shall be equipped with— (1) readily accessible fire extinguishers capable of promptly and effectively extinguishing a flammable or combustible liquid fuel fire; (2) at least one readily accessible life preserver or other lifesaving device for each individual on board; (3) an efficient flame arrestor, backfire trap, or other similar device on the carburetors of each inboard engine that uses gasoline as fuel; (4) the means to properly and efficiently ventilate enclosed spaces, including engine and fuel tank compartments, so as to remove explosive or flammable gases; (5) visual distress signals; (6) other equipment required to minimize the risk of injury to the crew during vessel operations, if the Secretary determines that a risk of serious injury exists that can be eliminated or mitigated by that equipment; and (7) a placard as required by regulations prescribed under section 10603(b). (b) Subject vessels In addition to the requirements of subsection (a), the Secretary shall prescribe regulations requiring that subject vessels install, maintain, and use the following equipment: (1) Alerting and locating equipment, including emergency position indicating radio beacons. (2) (A) Subject to subparagraph (B), a survival craft that— (i) ensures that no part of an individual is immersed in water; and (ii) is sufficient to accommodate all individuals on board. (B) Except for a nonapplicable vessel, an auxiliary craft shall satisfy the equipment requirement under paragraph (2)(B) if such craft is— (i) necessary for normal fishing operations; (ii) readily accessible during an emergency; and (iii) capable, in accordance with the Coast Guard capacity rating, when applicable, of safely holding all individuals on board the vessel to which the craft functions as an auxiliary. (3) At least one readily accessible immersion suit for each individual on board the vessel when operating on the waters described in section 3102. (4) Marine radio communications equipment sufficient to effectively communicate with a land-based search and rescue facility. (5) Navigation equipment, including compasses, nautical charts, and publications. (6) First aid equipment and medical supplies sufficient for the size and area of operation of the vessel. (7) Ground tackle sufficient for the vessel. (c) Accountable vessels In addition to the requirements described in subsections (a) and (b), the Secretary may prescribe regulations establishing minimum safety standards for accountable vessels, including standards relating to— (1) navigation equipment, including radars and fathometers; (2) lifesaving equipment, immersion suits, signaling devices, bilge pumps, bilge alarms, life rails, and grab rails; (3) fire protection and firefighting equipment, including fire alarms and portable and semiportable fire extinguishing equipment; (4) use and installation of insulation material; (5) storage methods for flammable or combustible material; and (6) fuel, ventilation, and electrical systems. 4504. Vessel construction A vessel to which this chapter applies shall be constructed in a manner that provides a level of safety equivalent to the minimum safety standards the Secretary may establish for recreational vessels under section 4302, if the vessel is— (1) a subject vessel; (2) less than 50 feet overall in length; and (3) built after January 1, 2010. 4505. Operating stability (a) Regulations The Secretary shall prescribe regulations for the operating stability of a vessel to which this chapter applies— (1) that was built after December 31, 1989; or (2) the physical characteristics of which are substantially altered after December 31, 1989, in a manner that affects the vessel’s operating stability. (b) Evidence of compliance The Secretary may accept, as evidence of compliance with this section, a certification of compliance issued by the person providing insurance for the vessel or by another qualified person approved by the Secretary. 4506. Training (a) In general The individual in charge of a subject vessel must pass a training program approved by the Secretary that meets the requirements of subsection (b) and hold a valid certificate issued under that program. (b) Training program requirements The training program shall— (1) be based on professional knowledge and skill obtained through sea service and hands-on training, including training in seamanship, stability, collision prevention, navigation, firefighting and prevention, damage control, personal survival, emergency medical care, emergency drills, and weather; (2) require an individual to demonstrate ability to communicate in an emergency situation and understand information found in navigation publications; (3) recognize and give credit for recent past experience in fishing vessel operation; and (4) provide for issuance of a certificate to an individual who has successfully completed the program. (c) Regulations The Secretary shall prescribe regulations implementing this section. The regulations shall require that an individual who is issued a certificate under subsection (b)(4) must complete refresher training at least once every 5 years as a condition of maintaining the validity of the certificate. (d) Electronic database The Secretary shall establish an electronic database listing the names of individuals who have participated in and received a certificate confirming successful completion of a training program approved by the Secretary under this section. 4507. Vessel certification (a) In general A vessel to which this section applies may not be operated unless the vessel— (1) meets all survey and classification requirements prescribed by the American Bureau of Shipping or another similarly qualified organization approved by the Secretary; and (2) has on board a certificate issued by the American Bureau of Shipping or such other organization evidencing compliance with this subsection. (b) Application (1) Except as provided in section 4509, this section applies to a fish processing vessel to which this chapter applies that— (A) is built after July 27, 1990; or (B) undergoes a major conversion completed after that date. (2) (A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), this section applies to a subject vessel that is at least 50 feet overall in length and is built after July 1, 2013. (B) This section does not apply to a substitute-eligible vessel if such vessel complies with— (i) the substitute safety compliance program established under section 4509; or (ii) the enhanced substitute safety compliance program established by the Secretary under section 4510. 4508. Alternate safety compliance program (a) In general (1) The Secretary shall establish an alternate safety compliance program developed in coordination with the commercial fishing industry. (2) The program established under paragraph (1) may include requirements for— (A) a specific region or fishery (or both); and (B) any combination of regions or fisheries (or both). (b) Vessels required To comply Beginning on the date that is 3 years after the date the Secretary prescribes an alternate safety compliance program, the following vessels shall comply with such program: (1) A subject vessel that is— (A) at least 50 feet overall in length; (B) built before July 1, 2013; and (C) 25 years of age or older. (2) A fishing vessel, fish processing vessel, or fish tender vessel built before July 1, 2013, that undergoes a major conversion completed after the date the Secretary prescribes an alternate safety compliance program. (c) Exempt vessels (1) Notwithstanding subsection (b), vessels owned by a person that owns more than 30 vessels subject to that subsection are not required to comply with alternate safety compliance program requirements until January 1, 2030, if that owner— (A) enters into a compliance agreement with the Secretary that provides for a fixed schedule for all such vessels owned by that person to meet requirements of such paragraph by such date; and (B) is meeting such schedule. (2) A subject vessel that was classed before July 1, 2012, is exempt from the requirements of this section if such vessel— (A) remains subject to the requirements of a classification society approved by the Secretary; and (B) has on board a certificate from that society. 4509. Substitute safety compliance program (a) In general The Secretary shall establish a substitute safety compliance program for substitute-eligible vessels that includes the following requirements: (1) A substitute-eligible vessel shall be designed by an individual licensed by a State as a naval architect or marine engineer, and the design shall incorporate standards equivalent to those prescribed by a classification society to which the Secretary has delegated authority under section 3316 or another qualified organization approved by the Secretary for purposes of this paragraph. (2) Construction of a substitute-eligible vessel shall be overseen and certified as being in accordance with its design by a marine surveyor of an organization accepted by the Secretary. (3) A substitute-eligible vessel shall— (A) complete a stability test performed by a qualified individual; (B) have written stability and loading instructions from a qualified individual that are provided to the owner or operator; and (C) have an assigned loading mark. (4) A substitute-eligible vessel shall not be substantially altered without the review and approval of an individual licensed by a State as a naval architect or marine engineer before the beginning of such substantial alteration. (5) A substitute-eligible vessel shall undergo a condition survey at least twice in 5 years, with not more than 3 years between surveys, to the satisfaction of a marine surveyor of an organization accepted by the Secretary. (6) A substitute-eligible vessel shall undergo an out-of-water survey at least once every 5 years to the satisfaction of a certified marine surveyor of an organization accepted by the Secretary. (7) Once every 5 years, and at the time of a substantial alteration to a substitute-eligible vessel, compliance of the vessel with the requirements of paragraph (3) is reviewed and updated as necessary. (8) For the life of a substitute-eligible vessel, the owner of the vessel shall maintain records to demonstrate compliance with this subsection and make such records readily available for inspection by an official authorized to enforce this chapter. (b) Compliance Section 4507 of this title shall not apply to a substitute-eligible vessel that complies with the requirements of the program established under this section. (c) Report Not later than February 8, 2026, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report that provides an analysis of the adequacy of the substitute safety compliance program requirements established under subsection (a) in maintaining the safety of substitute-eligible fishing vessels and fish tender vessels and that comply with such requirements. 4510. Enhanced substitute safety compliance program (a) In general If the report required under section 4509(c) includes a determination that the substitute safety compliance program established under section 4509(a) is not adequate or that additional safety measures are necessary, then the Secretary may establish an enhanced substitute safety compliance program for fishing vessels or fish tender vessels (or both) that are substitute-eligible vessels and that comply with the requirements of section 4509. (b) Requirements The enhanced substitute safety compliance program established under this subsection shall include requirements for— (1) vessel construction; (2) a vessel stability test; (3) vessel stability and loading instructions; (4) an assigned vessel loading mark; (5) a vessel condition survey at least twice in 5 years, not more than 3 years apart; (6) an out-of-water vessel survey at least once every 5 years; (7) maintenance of records to demonstrate compliance with the program, and the availability of such records for inspection; and (8) such other aspects of vessel safety as the Secretary considers appropriate. (c) Compliance Section 4507 shall not apply to a substitute-eligible vessel that complies with the requirements of the program established under this section. 4511. Prohibited acts A person may not operate a vessel in violation of this chapter or a regulation prescribed under this chapter. 4512. Termination of unsafe operations An official authorized to enforce this chapter— (1) may direct the individual in charge of a vessel to which this chapter applies to immediately take reasonable steps necessary for the safety of individuals on board the vessel if the official observes the vessel being operated in an unsafe condition that the official believes creates an especially hazardous condition, including ordering the individual in charge to return the vessel to a mooring and to remain there until the situation creating the hazard is corrected or ended; and (2) may order the individual in charge of an uninspected fish processing vessel that does not have on board the certificate required under section 4507 to return the vessel to a mooring and to remain there until the vessel is in compliance with such section, unless the vessel is required to comply with section 4508. 4513. Penalties (a) Civil penalty The owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, and individual in charge of a vessel to which this chapter applies that is operated in violation of this chapter or a regulation prescribed under this chapter may each be assessed a civil penalty by the Secretary of not more than $10,260. Any vessel with respect to which a penalty is assessed under this subsection is liable in rem for the penalty. (b) Criminal penalties An individual willfully violating this chapter or a regulation prescribed under this chapter shall be fined not more than $5,000, imprisoned for not more than one year, or both. 4514. Compliance; Secretary actions To ensure compliance with the requirements of this chapter, the Secretary— (1) shall require the individual in charge of a subject vessel to keep a record of equipment maintenance and required instruction and drills; (2) shall examine at dockside a subject vessel at least once every 5 years, but may require an exam at dockside every 2 years for certain subject vessels if requested by the owner or operator; and (3) shall issue a certificate of compliance to a vessel meeting the requirements of this chapter and satisfying the requirements of paragraph (2). 4515. Exemptions The Secretary may exempt a vessel from any part of this chapter if, under regulations prescribed by the Secretary (including regulations on special operating conditions), the Secretary finds that— (1) good cause exists for granting an exemption; and (2) the safety of the vessel and those on board will not be adversely affected. 4516. Regulations; considerations and limitations In prescribing a regulation under this chapter, the Secretary— (1) shall consider the specialized nature and economics of the operations and the character, design, and construction of the vessel; and (2) may not require the alteration of a vessel or associated equipment that was constructed or manufactured before the effective date of such regulation. 4517. Fishing safety grants (a) Safety training grants (1) Establishment The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall establish a Fishing Safety Training Grant Program to provide funding to municipalities, port authorities, other appropriate public entities, not-for-profit organizations, and other qualified persons that provide commercial fishing safety training. (2) Use of funds Entities receiving funds under this section may use such funds— (A) to conduct fishing vessel safety training for vessel operators and crewmembers that— (i) in the case of vessel operators, meets the requirements of section 4506; and (ii) in the case of crewmembers, meets the requirements of sections 4506(b)(1), 4506(b)(4), 4506(c), and 4506(d), and such requirements of section 4506(b)(2) as are appropriate for crewmembers; and (B) for purchase of safety equipment and training aids for use in such fishing vessel safety training programs. (3) Award criteria The Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with and based on criteria established by the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall award grants under this subsection on a competitive basis. (4) Limitation on Federal share of cost The Federal share of the cost of any activity carried out with a grant under this subsection shall not exceed 50 percent. (5) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated $3,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2020 and 2021 for grants under this subsection. (b) Research grant program (1) Establishment The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall establish a Fishing Safety Research Grant Program to provide funding to individuals in academia, not-for-profit organizations, businesses involved in fishing and maritime matters, and other persons with expertise in fishing safety, to conduct research on methods of improving the safety of the commercial fishing industry, including vessel design, emergency and survival equipment, enhancement of vessel monitoring systems, communications devices, de-icing technology, and severe weather detection. (2) Award criteria The Secretary of Health and Human Services, in consultation with and based on criteria established by the Commandant of the Coast Guard, shall award grants under this subsection on a competitive basis. (3) Limitation on Federal share of cost The Federal share of the cost of any activity carried out with a grant under this subsection shall not exceed 50 percent. (4) Authorization of appropriations There is authorized to be appropriated $3,000,000 for each fiscal year 2020 and 2021 for activities under this subsection. . (b) Conforming amendment Section 3104(d) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking under section 4503(d) under section 4502(3) (c) Safety standards Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and without regard to the provisions of chapters 5 and 6 of title 5, United States Code, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall promulgate the regulations required by section 4503(b) of title 46, United States Code, as amended by this section. 502. Transfers (a) Transfers of provisions (1) In general (A) Section 215 of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2004 ( Public Law 108–293 14 U.S.C. 504 (B) Section 406 of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (Public Law (107–295; 14 U.S.C. 501 (C) Section 1110 of title 14, United States Code, is redesignated as section 5110 of that title, and transferred to appear after section 5109 of that title. (D) Elevation of Disputes to the Chief Acquisition Officer (i) Section 401 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 ( Public Law 111–281 (ii) Subchapter I of chapter 11 1110. Elevation of Disputes to the Chief Acquisition Officer If, after 90 days following the elevation to the Chief Acquisition Officer of any design or other dispute regarding level 1 or level 2 acquisition, the dispute remains unresolved, the Commandant shall provide to the appropriate congressional committees a detailed description of the issue and the rationale underlying the decision taken by the Chief Acquisition Officer to resolve the issue. . (E) Section 217 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 ( Public Law 111–281 14 U.S.C. 504 (i) is redesignated as section 5111 of title 14, United States Code, transferred to appear after section 5110 of that title, and amended so that the enumerator, section heading, typeface, and typestyle conform to those appearing in other sections in title 14, United States Code; and (ii) is amended— (I) by striking the heading and inserting the following: 5111. Sexual assault and sexual harassment in the Coast Guard ; and (II) in subsection (b), by adding at the end the following: (5) (A) The number of instances in which a covered individual was accused of misconduct or crimes considered collateral to the investigation of a sexual assault committed against the individual. (B) The number of instances in which adverse action was taken against a covered individual who was accused of collateral misconduct or crimes as described in subparagraph (A). (C) The percentage of investigations of sexual assaults that involved an accusation or adverse action against a covered individual as described in subparagraphs (A) and (B). (D) In this paragraph, the term covered individual . (F) Section 305 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (i) by striking The Federal (a) In General.— (ii) by inserting after section (a) the following: (b) Transparency (1) In general In conjunction with the transmittal by the President to the Congress of the Budget of the United States for fiscal year 2021 and biennially there-after, the Federal Maritime Commission shall submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives reports that describe the Commission’s progress toward addressing the issues raised in each unfinished regulatory proceeding, regardless of whether the proceeding if subject to a statutory or regulatory deadline. (2) Format of reports Each report under paragraph (1) shall, among other things, clearly identify for each unfinished regulatory proceeding— (A) the popular title; (B) the current stage of the proceeding; (C) an abstract of the proceeding; (D) what prompted the action in question; (E) any applicable statutory, regulatory, or judicial deadline; (F) the associated docket number; (G) the date the rulemaking was initiated; (H) a date for the next action; and (I) if a date for the next action identified in the previous report is not met, the reason for the delay. . (G) Section 7 of the Rivers and Harbors Appropriations Act of 1915 ( 33 U.S.C. 471 (i) by transferring such section to appear after section 70006 of title 46, United States Code; (ii) by striking “ Sec. 7. §70007. Establishment by Secretary of Homeland Security of anchorage grounds and regulations generally (iii) by adjusting the margins with respect to subsections (a) and (b) for the presence of a section heading accordingly. (2) Clerical amendments (A) The analysis for chapter 3 321. Redistricting notification requirement. . (B) The analysis for chapter 7 719. VHF communication services. . (C) The analysis for chapter 11 1110. Elevation of disputes to the Chief Acquisition Officer. . (D) The analysis for chapter 51 5110. Mission need statement. 5111. Sexual assault and sexual harassment in the Coast Guard. . (E) The analysis for chapter 700 70007. Establishment by the Secretary of Homeland Security of anchorage grounds and regulations generally. . (b) Transfers (1) Section 204 of the Marine Transportation Security Act (A) The Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 is amended by striking section 204 ( 33 U.S.C. 1902a (B) Section 3 of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships ( 33 U.S.C. 1902 (i) is amended by redesignating subsections (e) through (i) as subsections (f) through (j) respectively; and (ii) by inserting after subsection (d) the following: (e) Discharge of agricultural cargo residue Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the discharge from a vessel of any agricultural cargo residue material in the form of hold washings shall be governed exclusively by the provisions of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships ( 33 U.S.C. 1901 . (2) LNG Tankers (A) The Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006 is amended by striking section 304 ( Public Law 109–241 (B) Section 5 of the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 ( 33 U.S.C. 1504 (j) LNG Tankers (1) Program The Secretary of Transportation shall develop and implement a program to promote the transportation of liquefied natural gas to the United States on United States flag vessels. (2) Information to be provided When the Coast Guard is operating as a contributing agency in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s shoreside licensing process for a liquefied natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas terminal located on shore or within State seaward boundaries, the Coast Guard shall provide to the Commission the information described in section 5(c)(2)(K) of the Deepwater Port Act of 1974 ( 33 U.S.C. 1504(c)(2)(K) . 503. Repeals (a) License exemptions; repeal of obsolete provisions (1) Service under licenses issued without examination (A) Repeal Section 8303 of title 46, United States Code, and the item relating to that section in the analysis for chapter 83 of that title, are repealed. (B) Conforming amendment Section 14305(a)(10) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking sections 8303 and 8304 section 8304 (2) Standards for tank vessels of the united states Section 9102 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (A) by striking (a) (B) by striking subsection (b). (b) Repeal Section 343 of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 ( Public Law 107–295 (c) Accident and incident notification Subsection (c) of section 9 of the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011 ( Public Law 112–90 VI Technical, Conforming, and Clarifying Amendments 601. Maritime transportation system (a) Maritime transportation system Section 312(b)(4) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking marine transportation system maritime transportation system (b) Clarification of reference to marine transportation system programs Section 50307(a) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking marine transportation maritime transportation 602. References to persons seamen (a) Technical correction of references to persons Title 14, United States Code, is amended as follows: (1) In section 312(d), by striking persons individuals (2) In section 313(d)(2)(B), by striking person individual (3) In section 504— (A) in subsection (a)(19)(B), by striking a person an individual (B) in subsection (c)(4), by striking seamen; mariners; (4) In section 521, by striking persons individuals (5) In section 522— (A) by striking a person an individual (B) by striking person individual (6) In section 525(a)(1)(C)(ii), by striking person individual (7) In section 526— (A) by striking person individual (B) by striking persons individuals (C) in subsection (b), by striking person’s individual’s (8) In section 709— (A) by striking persons individuals (B) by striking person individual (9) In section 933(b), by striking Every person An individual (10) In section 1102(d), by striking persons individuals (11) In section 1902(b)(3)— (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking person or persons individual or individuals (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking person individual (12) In section 1941(b), by striking persons individuals (13) In section 2101(b), by striking person individual (14) In section 2102(c), by striking A person An individual (15) In section 2104(b)— (A) by striking persons individuals (B) by striking A person An individual (16) In section 2118(d), by striking person individual who is (17) In section 2147(d), by striking a person an individual (18) In section 2150(f), by striking person individual who is (19) In section 2161(b), by striking person individual (20) In section 2317— (A) by striking persons individuals (B) by striking person individual (C) in subsection (c)(2), by striking person’s individual’s (21) In section 2531— (A) by striking person individual (B) by striking persons individuals (22) In section 2709, by striking persons individuals (23) In section 2710— (A) by striking persons individuals (B) by striking person individual (24) In section 2711(b), by striking person individual (25) In section 2732, by striking a person an individual (26) In section 2733— (A) by striking A person An individual (B) by striking that person that individual (27) In section 2734, by striking person individual (28) In section 2735, by striking a person an individual (29) In section 2736, by striking person individual (30) In section 2737, by striking a person an individual (31) In section 2738, by striking person individual (32) In section 2739, by striking person individual (33) In section 2740— (A) by striking person individual (B) by striking one (34) In section 2741— (A) in subsection (a), by striking a person an individual (B) in subsection (b)(1), by striking person’s individual’s (C) in subsection (b)(2), by striking person individual (35) In section 2743, by striking person individual (36) In section 2744— (A) in subsection (b), by striking a person an individual (B) in subsections (a) and (c), by striking person individual (37) In section 2745, by striking person individual (38) (A) In section 2761— (i) in the section heading, by striking Persons Individuals (ii) by striking persons individuals (iii) by striking person individual (B) In the analysis for chapter 27, by striking the item relating to section 2761 and inserting the following: 2761. Individuals discharged as result of court-martial; allowances to. . (39) (A) In the heading for section 2767, by striking persons individuals (B) In the analysis for chapter 27, by striking the item relating to section 2767 and inserting the following: 2767. Reimbursement for medical-related travel expenses for certain individuals residing on islands in the continental United States. . (40) In section 2769— (A) by striking a person’s an individual’s (B) in paragraph (1), by striking person individual (41) In section 2772(a)(2), by striking person individual (42) In section 2773— (A) in subsection (b), by striking persons individuals (B) in subsection (d), by striking a person an individual (43) In section 2775, by striking person individual (44) In section 2776, by striking person individual (45) (A) In section 2777— (i) in the heading, by striking persons individuals (ii) by striking persons individuals (B) In the analysis for chapter 27, by striking the item relating to in section 2777 and inserting the following: 2777. Clothing for destitute shipwrecked individuals. . (46) In section 2779, by striking persons individuals (47) In section 2902(c), by striking person individual (48) In section 2903(b), by striking person individual (49) In section 2904(b)(1)(B), by striking a person an individual (50) In section 3706— (A) by striking a person an individual (B) by striking person’s individual’s (51) In section 3707— (A) in subsection (c)— (i) by striking person individual (ii) by striking person’s individual’s (B) in subsection (e), by striking a person an individual (52) In section 3708, by striking person individual (53) In section 3738— (A) by striking a person an individual (B) by striking person’s individual’s (C) by striking A person An individual (b) Correction of references to persons and seamen (1) Section 2303a(a) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking persons individuals (2) Section 2306(a)(3) of title 46, United States Code, is amended to read as follows: (3) An owner, charterer, managing operator, or agent of a vessel of the United States notifying the Coast Guard under paragraph (1) or (2) shall— (A) provide the name and identification number of the vessel, the names of individuals on board, and other information that may be requested by the Coast Guard; and (B) submit written confirmation to the Coast Guard within 24 hours after nonwritten notification to the Coast Guard under such paragraphs. . (3) Section 7303 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking seaman individual (4) Section 7319 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking seaman individual (5) Section 7501(b) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking seaman holder (6) Section 7508(b) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking individual seamen or a specifically identified group of seamen an individual or a specifically identified group of individuals (7) Section 7510 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (c)(8)(B), by striking merchant seamen merchant mariner (B) in subsection (d), by striking merchant seaman merchant mariner (8) Section 8103 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (A) by striking seaman individual (B) by striking seamen individuals (C) in the headings for paragraphs (2) and (3) of subsection (k), by striking seamen individuals (D) in subsection (k)(3)(A)(iv)(II), by striking seaman’s individual’s (E) in subsection (k)(3)(C), by striking merchant mariners merchant mariner’s (9) Section 8104 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (c), by striking a licensed individual or seaman an individual (B) in subsection (d), by striking A licensed individual or seaman An individual (C) in subsection (e), by striking a seaman an individual (D) in subsection (j), by striking seaman individual (10) Section 8302(d) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking 3 persons 3 individuals (11) Section 11201 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking a person an individual (12) Section 11202 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (A) by striking a person an individual (B) by striking the person the individual (13) Section 11203 of title 46, United States Code, is amended— (A) by striking a person an individual (B) in subsection (a)(2), by striking that person that individual (14) Section 15109(i)(2) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking additional persons additional individuals 603. Common appropriation structure (a) Amendments To conform to common appropriations structure (1) Prospective payment of funds necessary To provide medical care Section 506 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (a)(1), by inserting established under chapter 56 Medicare-Eligible Retiree Health Care Fund (B) in subsection (b)(1), by striking operating expenses operations and support (2) Use of certain appropriated funds Section 903 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (a), by striking acquisition, construction, and improvement of facilities, for research, development, test, and evaluation; procurement, construction, and improvement of facilities and for research and development (B) in subsection (d)(1), by striking operating expenses operations and support (3) Confidential investigative expenses Section 944 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking necessary expenses for the operation operations and support (4) Procurement of personnel Section 2701 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking operating expense operations and support (5) Coast Guard Housing Fund Section 2946(b)(2) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking acquisition procurement (6) Requirement for prior authorization of appropriations Section 4901 of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (A) in paragraph (1), by striking maintenance support (B) in paragraph (2), by striking acquisition procurement (C) by striking paragraphs (3), (4), and (6); (D) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (3); and (E) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated, by striking research, development, test, and evaluation research and development (b) Common appropriation structure Sections 3317(b), 7504, and 80505(b)(3) of title 46, United States Code, are each amended by striking operating expenses operations and support (c) Common appropriation structure (1) Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund Section 1012(a)(5)(A) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 ( 33 U.S.C. 2712(a)(5)(A) operating expenses operations and support (2) Historic Light Station Sales Section 305106 of title 54, United States Code, is amended— (A) in subsection (b)(1)(B)(i) by striking Operating Expenses Operations and Support (B) in subsection (b)(2) by striking Operating Expense Operations and Support (3) Bridge permits Section 712(a)(2) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 ( Public Law 112–213 operating expenses operations and support (4) Contracts Section 557(a) of the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2013 ( Public Law 113–6 Acquisition Procurement (5) Child development services Section 214(d)(1) of the Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014 ( Public Law 113–281 operating expenses operations and support 604. References to himself his (a) Section 1927 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by— (1) striking of his initial of an initial (2) striking from his pay from the pay of such cadet (b) Section 2108(b) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking himself such officer (c) Section 2732 of title 14, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended— (1) by striking distinguishes himself conspicuously by displays conspicuous (2) by striking his such individual’s (d) Section 2736 of title 14, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by striking distinguishes himself by performs (e) Section 2738 of title 14, United States Code, as amended by this Act is further amended by striking distinguishes himself by displays (f) Section 2739 of title 14, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by striking distinguishes himself by displays (g) Section 2742 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking he distinguished himself of the acts resulting in the consideration of such award (h) Section 2743 of title 14, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended— (1) by striking distinguishes himself (2) by striking he such individual 605. References to motorboats yachts (a) Correction of references to motorboats and yachts (1) Section 3901(d)(4) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking motor boats, yachts, vessels, (2) Section 3903(1)(A) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking motorboats, yachts vessels, (3) Section 3907(a) of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (A) in the heading, by striking Motor boats, yachts, Vessels, (B) by striking motorboat, yacht, vessels, (4) Section 3908 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking motorboat or yacht vessel (5) Section 3911(a) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking motorboat, yacht, vessel, (6) Section 3912 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking motorboat, yacht, vessel, (7) Section 4101 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking motorboats, yachts, vessels, (8) Section 4102 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking motorboat, yacht, or any other vessel, or vessel, (b) Conforming references to yachts Title 46, United States Code, is amended— (1) in parts F and G of subtitle II, by striking yacht recreational vessel (2) in subtitle III— (A) in section 30506(a), by striking pleasure yachts recreational vessels (B) in section 30508(a), by striking pleasure yachts recreational vessels (3) in section 60504— (A) by striking yachts recreational vessels (B) by striking yacht recreational vessel (c) Vessels Section 352(a)(4) of the Communications Act of 1934 ( 47 U.S.C. 352(a)(4) Yachts Recreational vessels, as defined in section 2101(46) of title 46, United States Code, 606. Miscellaneous technical corrections (a) Miscellaneous technical corrections (1) Section 3305(d)(3)(B) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2017 Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 (2) Section 4312 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2017 Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 (3) The analysis for chapter 700 (A) by striking the item relating to the heading for the first subchapter and inserting the following: Subchapter I—Vessel Operations ; (B) by striking the item relating to the heading for the second subchapter and inserting the following: Subchapter II—Ports and Waterways Safety ; (C) by striking the items relating to the heading for the third subchapter and inserting the following: Subchapter III—Condition for entry into ports in the United States 70021. Conditions for Entry Into Ports in the United States. ; (D) by striking the item relating to the heading for the fourth subchapter and inserting the following: Subchapter IV—Definitions Regulations, Enforcement, Investigatory Powers, Applicability ; (E) by striking the item relating to the heading for the fifth subchapter and inserting the following: Subchapter V—Regattas and Marine Parades ; and (F) by striking the item relating to the heading for the sixth subchapter and inserting the following: Subchapter VI—Regulation of Vessels in Territorial Waters of the United States . (4) Section 70031 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking A through C I through III (5) Section 70032 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking A through C I through III (6) Section 70033 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking A through C I through III (7) Section 70034 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking A through C I through III (8) Section 70035(a) of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking A through C I through III (9) Section 70036 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by— (A) striking A through C I through III (B) striking A, B, or C I, II, or III (b) Alteration of bridges; technical changes The Act of June 21, 1940 ( 33 U.S.C. 511 33 U.S.C. 522 (c) Report of determination; technical correction Section 105(f)(2) of the Pribilof Islands Transition Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1161 Public Law 106–562 subsection (a), paragraph (1), (d) Technical corrections to Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 (1) Section 408 of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 (2) Section 514(b) of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 Chapter 30 Chapter 3 (3) Section 810(d) of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 within 30 days after receiving the notice under subsection (a)(1), the Secretary shall, by not later than 60 days after transmitting such notice, in accordance within subsection (a)(2), the Secretary shall (4) Section 820(a) of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 years 2018 and year (5) Section 820(b)(2) of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 and the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2018 ( Public Law 115–141 ( Public Law 115–31 (6) Section 821(a)(2) of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2017 Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 (7) This section shall take effect on the date of the enactment of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 (e) Technical correction Section 533(d)(2)(A) of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2016 ( Public Law 114–120 Tract 6 such Tract (f) Distant water tuna fleet; technical corrections Section 421 of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006 ( Public Law 109–241 (1) in subsection (a)— (A) by striking Notwithstanding (1) In general Notwithstanding ; and (B) by adding at the end the following: (2) Definition In this subsection, the term treaty area Public Law 109–241 ; and (2) in subsection (c)— (A) by striking 12.6 or 12.7 13.6 (B) by striking and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 Authorization Act of 2019 607. Technical corrections relating to codification of Ports and Waterways Safety Act Effective upon the enactment of section 401 of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115–282 (1) section 16 of the Ports and Waterways Safety Act, as added by section 315 of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act ( Public Law 115–44 (A) is redesignated as section 70022 of title 46, United States Code, transferred to appear after section 70021 of that title, and amended so that the enumerator, section heading, typeface, and typestyle conform to those appearing in other sections in title 46, United States Code; and (B) as so redesignated and transferred, is amended— (i) in subsections (b) and (e), by striking section 4(a)(5) section 70001(a)(5) (ii) in subsection (c)(2), by striking not later than thereafter, periodically (iii) by striking subsection (h); and (2) chapter 700 (A) in section 70002(2), by inserting or 70022 section 70021 (B) in section 70036(e), by inserting or 70022 section 70021 (C) in the analysis for such chapter— (i) by inserting Sec. (ii) by striking the item relating to section 70021 and inserting the following: 70021. Conditions for entry to ports in the United States 70022. Prohibition on entry and operation . VII Federal Maritime Commission 701. Short title This title may be cited as the Federal Maritime Commission Authorization Act of 2019 702. Authorization of appropriations Section 308 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking $28,012,310 for fiscal year 2018 and $28,544,543 for fiscal year 2019 $29,086,888 for fiscal year 2020 and $29,639,538 for fiscal year 2021 VIII Coast Guard Academy Improvement Act 801. Short title This Act may be cited as the Coast Guard Academy Improvement Act 802. Coast Guard Academy study (a) In general The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall seek to enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Public Administration not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of the this Act under which the National Academy of Public Administration shall— (1) conduct an assessment of the cultural competence of the Coast Guard Academy as an organization and of individuals at the Coast Guard Academy to carry out effectively the primary duties of the United States Coast Guard listed in section 102 of title 14, United States Code, when interacting with individuals of different races, ethnicities, genders, religions, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, or from different geographic origins; and (2) issue recommendations based upon the findings in such assessment. (b) Assessment of cultural competence (1) Cultural competence of the Coast Guard Academy The arrangement described in subsection (a) shall require the National Academy of Public Administration to, not later than 1 year after entering into an arrangement with the Secretary under subsection (a), submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate the assessment described under subsection (a)(1). (2) Assessment scope The assessment described under subsection (a)(1) shall— (A) describe the level of cultural competence described in subsection (a)(1) based on the National Academy of Public Administration’s assessment of the Coast Guard Academy’s relevant practices, policies, and structures, including an overview of discussions with faculty, staff, students, and relevant Coast Guard Academy affiliated organizations; (B) examine potential changes which could be used to further enhance such cultural competence by— (i) modifying institutional practices, policies, and structures; and (ii) any other changes deemed appropriate by the National Academy of Public Administration; and (C) make recommendations to enhance the cultural competence of the Coast Guard Academy described in subparagraph (A), including any specific plans, policies, milestones, performance measures, or other information necessary to implement such recommendations. (c) Final action memorandum Not later than three months after submission of the assessment under section 802(b)(1), the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, a final action memorandum in response to all recommendations contained in the assessment. The Final Action Memorandum shall include the rationale for accepting, accepting in part, or rejecting each recommendation, and shall specify, where applicable, actions to be taken to implement such recommendations, including an explanation of how each action enhances the ability of the Coast Guard to carry out the primary duties of the United States Coast Guard listed in section 102 of title 14, United States Code. (d) Plan (1) In general Not later than six months after the date of the submission of the final action memorandum required under subsection (c), the Commandant of the Coast Guard, in coordination with the Chief Human Capital Officer of the Department of Homeland Security, shall submit a plan to carry out the recommendations or the parts of the recommendations accepted in the Final Action Memorandum to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. (2) Strategy with milestones If any recommendation or parts of recommendations accepted in the Final Action Memorandum address any of the following actions, then the plan required in paragraph (1) shall include a strategy with appropriate milestones to carry out such recommendations or parts of recommendations: (A) Improve outreach and recruitment of a more diverse Coast Guard Academy cadet candidate pool based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and geographic origin. (B) Modify institutional structures, practices, and policies to foster a more diverse cadet corps body, faculty, and staff workforce based on race, ethnicity, gender, religion, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and geographic origin. (C) Modify existing or establish new policies and safeguards to foster the retention of cadets, faculty, and staff of different races, ethnicities, genders, religions, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, and geographic origins at the Coast Guard Academy. (D) Restructure the admissions office of the Coast Guard Academy to be headed by a civilian with significant relevant higher education recruitment experience. (3) Implementation Unless otherwise directed by an Act of Congress, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall begin implementation of the plan developed under this subsection not later than 180 days after the submission of such plan to Congress. (4) Update The Commandant of the Coast Guard shall include in the first annual report required under chapter 51 803. Annual report (a) In general Chapter 51 5112. Report on diversity at the Coast Guard Academy (a) In general Not later than January 15, 2021, and annually thereafter, the Commandant shall submit a report on diversity at the Coast Guard Academy to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. (b) Contents The report required under subsection (a) shall include— (1) the status of the implementation of the plan required section 802 of the Coast Guard Academy Improvement Act; (2) specific information on outreach and recruitment activities for the preceding year, including the effectiveness of the Coast Guard Academy Minority Outreach Team Program described under section 1905 and of outreach and recruitment activities in the territories and other possessions of the United States; (3) enrollment information about the incoming class, including the gender, race, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic background, and State of residence of Coast Guard Academy cadets; (4) information on class retention, outcomes, and graduation rates, including the race, gender, ethnicity, religion, socioeconomic background, and State of residence of Coast Guard Academy cadets; and (5) information on efforts to retain diverse cadets, including through professional development and professional advancement programs for staff and faculty. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 51 5112. Report on diversity at the Coast Guard Academy. . 804. Assessment of Coast Guard Academy admission processes (a) In general The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall seek to enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Public Administration under which the National Academy of Public Administration shall, not later than 1 year after submitting an assessment under section 802(a), submit an assessment of the Coast Guard Academy admissions process to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate. (b) Assessment scope The assessment required to be sought under subsection (a) shall, at a minimum, include— (1) a study, or an audit if appropriate, of the process the Coast Guard Academy uses to— (A) identify candidates for recruitment; (B) recruit applicants; (C) assist applicants in the application process; (D) evaluate applications; and (E) make admissions decisions; (2) discussion of the consideration during the admissions process of diversity, including— (A) race; (B) ethnicity; (C) gender; (D) religion; (E) sexual orientation; (F) socioeconomic background; and (G) geographic origin; (3) an overview of the admissions processes at other Federal service academies, including— (A) discussion of consideration of diversity, including any efforts to attract a diverse pool of applicants, in those processes; and (B) an analysis of how the congressional nominations requirement in current law related to military service academies and the Merchant Marine Academy impacts those processes and the overall demographics of the student bodies at those academies; (4) a determination regarding how a congressional nominations requirement for Coast Guard Academy admissions could impact diversity among the student body and the ability of the Coast Guard to carry out effectively the Service’s primary duties described in section 102 of title 14, United States Code; and (5) recommendations for improving Coast Guard Academy admissions processes, including whether a congressional nominations process should be integrated into such processes. 805. Coast Guard Academy minority outreach team program (a) In general Chapter 19 section 1904 1905. Coast Guard Academy minority outreach program (a) In general There is established within the Coast Guard Academy a minority outreach team program (in this section referred to as the Program (b) Administration Not later than July 15, 2020, the Commandant, in consultation with Program volunteers and Academy alumni that participated in prior programs at the Academy similar to the Program, shall appoint a permanent civilian position at the Academy to administer the Program by, among other things— (1) overseeing administration of the Program; (2) serving as a resource to volunteers and outside stakeholders; (3) advising Academy leadership on recruitment and retention efforts based on recommendations from volunteers and outside stakeholders; (4) establishing strategic goals and performance metrics for the Program with input from active volunteers and Academy leadership; and (5) reporting annually to the Commandant on academic year and performance outcomes of the goals for the Program before the end of each academic year. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for chapter 19 section 1904 1905. Coast Guard Academy minority outreach team program. . 806. Coast Guard college student pre-commissioning initiative (a) In general Subchapter I of chapter 21 2131. College student pre-commissioning initiative (a) In general There is authorized within the Coast Guard the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative program (in this section referred to as the ‘program’) for eligible undergraduate students to enlist and receive a guaranteed commission as an officer in the Coast Guard. (b) Criteria for selection To be eligible for the program a student must meet the following requirements upon submitting an application: (1) Age A student must be not less than 19 years old and not more than 27 years old as of September 30 of the fiscal year in which the program selection panel selecting such student convenes. (2) Character (A) All applicants All applicants must be of outstanding moral character and meet other character requirements as set forth by the Commandant. (B) Coast Guard Applicants An applicant serving in the Coast Guard may not be commissioned if in the 36 months prior to the first Officer Candidate School class convening date in the selection cycle, such applicant was convicted by a court-martial or awarded non-judicial punishment, or did not meet performance or character requirements set forth by the Commandant. (3) Citizenship A student must be a United States citizen. (4) Clearance A student must be eligible for a secret clearance. (5) Dependency (A) A student may not have more than 2 dependents; and (B) A student who is single may not have sole or primary custody of dependents. (6) Education (A) Institution A student must be an undergraduate sophomore or junior— (i) at a historically Black college or university described in section 322(2) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1061(2) 20 U.S.C. 1067q(a) (ii) who is active in minority-serving organizations and pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics at an institution of higher education described in section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1001 (B) Location The institution at which such student is an undergraduate must be within 100 miles of a Coast guard unit or Coast Guard Recruiting Office unless otherwise approved by the Commandant. (C) Records A student must meet credit and grade point average requirements set forth by the Commandant. (7) Medical and administrative A student must meet other medical and administrative requirements as set forth by the Commandant. (c) Enlistment and obligation Individuals selected and accept to participate in the program shall enlist in the Coast Guard in pay grade E–3 with a four year duty obligation and four year inactive Reserve obligation. (d) Military activities prior to Officer Candidate School Individuals enrolled in the program shall participate in military activities each month, as required by the Commandant, prior to attending Officer Candidate School. (e) Participation in Officer Candidate School Each graduate of the program shall attend the first enrollment of Officer Candidate School that commences after the date of such graduate’s graduation. (f) Commissioning Upon graduation from Officer Candidate School, program graduates shall be discharged from enlisted status and commissioned as an O–1 with an initial three-year duty obligation. (g) Briefing (1) In general Not later than August 15 of each year, the Commandant shall provide a briefing to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative. (2) Contents The briefing required under paragraph (1) shall describe— (A) outreach and recruitment efforts over the previous year; and (B) demographic information of enrollees including— (i) race; (ii) ethnicity; (iii) gender; (iv) geographic origin; and (v) educational institution. . (b) Clerical amendment The analysis for subchapter I of chapter 21 2131. College Student Pre-Commissioning Initiative. . 807. Annual board of visitors Section 1903(d) of title 14, United States Code, is amended— (1) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (6) as paragraphs (3) through (7), respectively; and (2) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following: (2) recruitment and retention; . July 23, 2019 Reported with an amendment, committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union, and ordered to be printed

Summary: Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2019 TITLE I--AUTHORIZATIONS (Sec. 101)This bill extends the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve program through FY2021. (Sec. 102)The Coast Guard is authorized an end-of-year strength for active duty personnel of 44,500 for FY2020-FY2021. (Sec. 103)The budgetary effects of this bill are to be determined in accordance with the procedures established in the Statutory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010. TITLE II--COAST GUARD (Sec. 201)The bill (1) requires the Coast Guard to make a determination of satisfactory service regarding the grade in which an officer is retired; (2) provides authority to retire an officer to a lower grade if such officer committed misconduct in a lower grade than that held at the time of retirement; (3) provides that a retired grade determination is administratively final on the day an officer is retired and may not be reopened, with specified exceptions; and (4) removes gender-specific terminology from Coast Guard provisions. (Sec. 202)The Coast Guard must appoint an officer who is in a grade above captain as Director of Congressional Affairs. (Sec. 203)The bill increased monetary limitations for the Coast Guard to settle admiralty claims and claims for damage to Coast Guard property. (Sec. 204)The bill provides authority for Coast Guard officers to opt out of promotion board consideration in limited circumstances. (Sec. 205)The Coast Guard may temporarily promote officers with critical skills and serving in certain positions. (Sec. 206)Members of the Coast Guard may be inactivated from active duty to meet personal or professional needs and then returned to the service at the end of such period. (Sec. 207)The bill requires that Coast Guard long-term major acquisition plans include costs to operate and sustain vessels and aircraft. (Sec. 208)The Coast Guard must improve its employment skills verification, accuracy of certificates of training and skills and its responsiveness to certification requests for its members. (Sec. 209)The bill specifies reporting requirements for the Coast Guard regarding gender diversity, including requiring a biennial report that includes an analysis of its recruitment and retention of women and gender-based limitations on career opportunities. (Sec. 210)This bill limits dismantling or disposal of infrastructure comprising the LORAN-C system. (Sec. 211)The bill modifies the treatment of officers serving outside the Coast Guard with respect to the number and distribution of commissioned officers on the active duty promotion list. (Sec. 212)The Coast Guard may enter into certain transactions to carry out basic, applied, and advanced research projects, including adequate training for involved Coast Guard personnel. (Sec. 213)The bill provides the Coast Guard acquisition workforce reemployment authority. (Sec. 214)The Government Accountability Office (GAO) must report on the Coast Guard's allocation of its resources to support its defense readiness mission with the Department of Defense (DOD). (Sec. 215)The Coast Guard must report on the potential use of liquefied natural gas fuels in Coast Guard vessels, including new and converted vessels. TITLE III--SHIPPING (Sec. 301)The bill requires certain vessels to be equipped with electronic navigational charts that meet Coast Guard standards. (Sec. 302)The bill requires certain passenger vessels to comply with security and safety requirements by eliminating an exception for vessels engaged on coastwise voyages. (Sec. 303)The bill revises requirements related to non-operating individuals on board merchant vessels. (Sec. 304)Vessels built in the United States that lose their coastwise trade privileges may regain those privileges in a manner similar to vessels not built in the United States. (Sec. 305)The Department of Transportation (DOT) must (1) determine whether suitable U.S. flagged installation vessels are available for use and if not allow the use of foreign flagged installation vessels; and (2) develop, maintain, and periodically update an inventory of installation vessels. (Sec. 306)The bill modifies and provides statutory authority for several advisory committees, including authorizing members of advisory committees to be available to testify before Congress with respect to advice, reports, and recommendations submitted to the Coast Guard. (Sec. 307)The Department of Homeland Security must remove a maritime lien after such lien expires. (Sec. 308)The bill replaces the term "law enforcement personnel" with the term "emergency response providers" to allow the Coast Guard to engage with a broader array of partner agencies. (Sec. 309)The bill prohibits causing the beam of a laser pointer to strike a vessel operating in the navigable waters of the United States. (Sec. 310)The U.S. Committee on the Marine Transportation System must include a compendium of federal programs engaged in the marine transportation system in their submission provided to Congress every five years. (Sec. 311)The Coast Guard may establish a safety zone to address special activities in the U.S. exclusive economic zone. (Sec. 312)Operators of certain recreational vessels must use an engine cut-off switch link while operating on plane or above displacement speed. (Sec. 313)The Coast Guard may accept a substitution for fittings, materials, equipment, arrangements, calculations, information, or tests if the substitution provides an equivalent level of safety on the affected recreational vessel. (Sec. 314)The Coast Guard must review and approve Area Maritime Transportation Security Plans. (Sec. 315)DOD must submit a written explanation of the circumstances that require a waiver of navigation and vessel inspection laws in the interest of national defense. (Sec. 316)Funds distributed through the Maritime Administration's Small Shipyard Grant Program must be used for items produced or manufactured in the United States. (Sec. 317)The National Academy of Public Administration must conduct a study of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. (Sec. 318)DOT must designate each state maritime academy as a center of excellence in maritime workforce training. (Sec. 319)The bill revises the Coast Guard's authority to renew existing merchant mariner credentials. TITLE IV--MISCELLANEOUS (Sec. 401)The Coast Guard must review the adequacy of, and continuing need for, regulations requiring a U.S. documented vessel to comply with regulations for vessels engaged in an international voyage. (Sec. 402)The Coast Guard must regularly assess available unmanned maritime systems and satellite vessel tracking technologies for potential use to support its missions. (Sec. 403)The Coast Guard must establish a policy to allow the transfer of a member whose dependent is the victim of sexual assault perpetrated by a member of the Armed Forces who is unrelated to the victim. (Sec. 404)The bill allows towing vessels to transit beyond the boundary line in certain limited situations. (Sec. 405)The Coast Guard must enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences under which the Academy will prepare an assessment of Coast Guard operational authorities. (Sec. 406)The Coast Guard must submit to Congress a description of the its strategy to implement cloud computing. (Sec. 407)The Coast Guard must report on the vulnerabilities of its installations and requirements resulting from climate change over the next twenty years. (Sec. 408)The Coast Guard must develop a plan to address its shore infrastructure issues. (Sec. 409)The Coast Guard must report on the status of its efforts to field a comprehensive Physical Access Control System. (Sec. 410)The Coast Guard must issue certificates of documentation with coastwise endorsements for the vessels Safari Voyager (International Maritime Organization number 8963753) and Pacific Provider (United States official number 597967). (Sec. 411)The Coast Guard must submit a report to Congress regarding the ongoing Polar Security Cutter acquisition. (Sec. 412)The bill expresses the sense of Congress that the United States needs an additional Great Lakes icebreaker to facilitate commerce in the Great Lakes. (Sec. 413)The GAO must conduct an audit regarding the enforcement of the U.S. cargo preference program. (Sec. 414)The Coast Guard must brief Congress on a plan to expand the Coast Guard Insider Threat program to include the monitoring of all Coast Guard devices. (Sec. 415)The bill requires the cap on the federal share of funds to apply to any funding with respect to providing fishing safety grants. (Sec. 416)The Coast Guard must develop a plan for a demonstration program that will assess the feasibility of using unmanned aircraft systems for surveillance of marine protected areas. (Sec. 417)The Coalbank Slough in Coos Bay, Oregon, is not considered navigable waters of the United States (Sec. 418)The Coast Guard must brief Congress on Coast Guard housing, including the material condition of its housing facilities. (Sec. 419)The bill permits remedial actions to be completed after the transfer of Coast Guard property at Point Spencer, Alaska. (Sec. 420)The bill prohibits the Coast Guard from establishing new anchorages in the Hudson River between Yonkers, New York, and Kingston, New York. (Sec. 421)The Coast Guard may extend the duration of a vessel certificate of documentation and certification of financial responsibility for a period of not more than one year. (Sec. 422)The bill establishes a rotational cybersecurity research and training program at the Coast Guard Academy. (Sec. 423)The bill prohibits the collection of towing vessels inspection fees until the Coast Guard completes a review of inspection costs and implements regulations to establish specific inspection fees. (Sec. 424)An insurer or other indemnifier of a responsible party or injured third party is subject to the subrogated rights of that responsible party or injured third party to such compensation. (Sec. 425)The bill eliminates the loan program that provided assistance to fishermen and aquaculture producers during the claims procedure with respect to oil pollution. (Sec. 426)The bill provides different levels of liability for deepwater ports used in connection with the transportation of oil and the transportation of natural gas. (Sec. 427)The Coast Guard must report on current drug interdiction efforts in the Caribbean and whether the number of maritime surveillance hours used to counter illicit drug trafficking meets mission requirements. (Sec. 428)The bill revises voting requirements for the western Alaska community development quota program panel. (Sec. 429)The Transportation Security Administration and the Coast Guard must develop and implement a joint application for merchant mariner's documents and for a transportation security card. (Sec. 430)The Coast Guard must develop plans for a wing-in-ground craft demonstration program. TITLE V--REORGANIZATION (Sec. 501)The bill reorganizes provisions in the U.S. Code related to uninspected commercial fishing industry vessels. (Sec. 502)The bill redesignates several Coast Guard provisions in the U.S. Code, including provisions related to sexual assault and sexual harassment, and disputes regarding acquisitions. (Sec. 503)The bill repeals provisions in the U.S. Code related to (1) service under licenses issued without examination, (2) standards for tank vessels of the United States, (3) Caribbean Support Tender Vessels, and (4) accident and incident notification. TITLE VI--TECHNICAL, CONFORMING, AND CLARIFYING AMENDMENTS (Sec. 601)The bill makes technical amendments to the U.S. Code to revise provisions related to the Coast Guard and shipping. TITLE VII--FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION Federal Maritime Commission Authorization Act of 2019 (Sec. 702)The bill reauthorizes through FY2021 the Federal Maritime Commission. TITLE VIII--COAST GUARD ACADEMY IMPROVEMENT ACT Coast Guard Academy Improvement Act (Sec. 802)The Coast Guard must enter into an arrangement with National Academy of Public Administration (NAPA) under which NAPA will prepare an assessment of the level of cultural competence at the Coast Guard Academy. (Sec. 803)The Coast Guard must annually report on diversity at the Coast Guard Academy. (Sec. 804)The Coast Guard must enter into an arrangement with NAPA under which NAPA will conduct a comprehensive review of the Coast Guard Academy admissions process. (Sec. 805)The bill establishes a minority outreach team at the Coast Guard Academy. (Sec. 806) The bill authorizes a college pre-commissioning initiative program for the Coast Guard. (Sec. 807)The Coast Guard Academy Board of Visitors must include recruitment and retention within its scope of review.