[113th Congress Public Law 281]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
HOWARD COBLE COAST GUARD AND MARITIME TRANSPORTATION ACT OF 2014
[[Page 128 STAT. 3022]]
Public Law 113-281
113th Congress
An Act
To authorize appropriations for the Coast Guard for fiscal year 2015,
and for other purposes. <<NOTE: Dec. 18, 2014 - [S. 2444]>>
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled, <<NOTE: Howard Coble
Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2014.>>
SECTION 1. <<NOTE: 14 USC 1 note.>> SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the ``Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation Act of 2014''.
SEC. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS.
The table of contents for this Act is the following:
Sec. 1. Short title.
Sec. 2. Table of contents.
TITLE I--AUTHORIZATION
Sec. 101. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 102. Authorized levels of military strength and training.
TITLE II--COAST GUARD
Sec. 201. Commissioned officers.
Sec. 202. Commandant; appointment.
Sec. 203. Prevention and response workforces.
Sec. 204. Centers of expertise.
Sec. 205. Penalties.
Sec. 206. Agreements.
Sec. 207. Tuition assistance program coverage of textbooks and other
educational materials.
Sec. 208. Coast Guard housing.
Sec. 209. Lease authority.
Sec. 210. Notification of certain determinations.
Sec. 211. Annual Board of Visitors.
Sec. 212. Flag officers.
Sec. 213. Repeal of limitation on medals of honor.
Sec. 214. Coast Guard family support and child care.
Sec. 215. Mission need statement.
Sec. 216. Transmission of annual Coast Guard authorization request.
Sec. 217. Inventory of real property.
Sec. 218. Retired service members and dependents serving on advisory
committees.
Sec. 219. Active duty for emergency augmentation of regular forces.
Sec. 220. Acquisition workforce expedited hiring authority.
Sec. 221. Coast Guard administrative savings.
Sec. 222. Technical corrections to title 14.
Sec. 223. Multiyear procurement authority for Offshore Patrol Cutters.
Sec. 224. Maintaining Medium Endurance Cutter mission capability.
Sec. 225. Aviation capability.
Sec. 226. Gaps in writings on Coast Guard history.
Sec. 227. Officer evaluation reports.
Sec. 228. Improved safety information for vessels.
Sec. 229. E-LORAN.
Sec. 230. Analysis of resource deficiencies with respect to maritime
border security.
Sec. 231. Modernization of National Distress and Response System.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3023]]
Sec. 232. Report reconciling maintenance and operational priorities on
the Missouri River.
Sec. 233. Maritime Search and Rescue Assistance Policy assessment.
TITLE III--SHIPPING AND NAVIGATION
Sec. 301. Repeal.
Sec. 302. Donation of historical property.
Sec. 303. Small shipyards.
Sec. 304. Drug testing reporting.
Sec. 305. Opportunities for sea service veterans.
Sec. 306. Clarification of high-risk waters.
Sec. 307. Technical corrections.
Sec. 308. Report.
Sec. 309. Fishing safety grant programs.
Sec. 310. Establishment of Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee.
Sec. 311. Travel and subsistence.
Sec. 312. Prompt intergovernmental notice of marine casualties.
Sec. 313. Area Contingency Plans.
Sec. 314. International ice patrol reform.
Sec. 315. Offshore supply vessel third-party inspection.
Sec. 316. Watches.
Sec. 317. Coast Guard response plan requirements.
Sec. 318. Regional Citizens' Advisory Council.
Sec. 319. Uninspected passenger vessels in the United States Virgin
Islands.
Sec. 320. Treatment of abandoned seafarers.
Sec. 321. Website.
Sec. 322. Coast Guard regulations.
TITLE IV--FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION
Sec. 401. Authorization of appropriations.
Sec. 402. Award of reparations.
Sec. 403. Terms of Commissioners.
TITLE V--ARCTIC MARITIME TRANSPORTATION
Sec. 501. Arctic maritime transportation.
Sec. 502. Arctic maritime domain awareness.
Sec. 503. IMO Polar Code negotiations.
Sec. 504. Forward operating facilities.
Sec. 505. Icebreakers.
Sec. 506. Icebreaking in polar regions.
TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS
Sec. 601. Distant water tuna fleet.
Sec. 602. Extension of moratorium.
Sec. 603. National maritime strategy.
Sec. 604. Waivers.
Sec. 605. Competition by United States flag vessels.
Sec. 606. Vessel requirements for notices of arrival and departure and
automatic identification system.
Sec. 607. Conveyance of Coast Guard property in Rochester, New York.
Sec. 608. Conveyance of certain property in Gig Harbor, Washington.
Sec. 609. Vessel determination.
Sec. 610. Safe vessel operation in Thunder Bay.
Sec. 611. Parking facilities.
TITLE I--AUTHORIZATION
SEC. 101. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
Funds are authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2015 for
necessary expenses of the Coast Guard as follows:
(1) For the operation and maintenance of the Coast Guard,
$6,981,036,000.
(2) For the acquisition, construction, rebuilding, and
improvement of aids to navigation, shore and offshore
facilities, vessels, and aircraft, including equipment related
thereto, $1,546,448,000, to remain available until expended.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3024]]
(3) For the Coast Guard Reserve program, including personnel
and training costs, equipment, and services, $140,016,000.
(4) For environmental compliance and restoration of Coast
Guard vessels, aircraft, and facilities (other than parts and
equipment associated with operation and maintenance),
$16,701,000, to remain available until expended.
(5) To the Commandant of the Coast Guard for research,
development, test, and evaluation of technologies, materials,
and human factors directly related to improving the performance
of the Coast Guard's mission with respect to search and rescue,
aids to navigation, marine safety, marine environmental
protection, enforcement of laws and treaties, ice operations,
oceanographic research, and defense readiness, $19,890,000.
(6) For alteration or removal of bridges over navigable
waters of the United States constituting obstructions to
navigation, and for personnel and administrative costs
associated with the Alteration of Bridges Program, $16,000,000.
SEC. 102. AUTHORIZED LEVELS OF MILITARY STRENGTH AND TRAINING.
(a) Active Duty Strength.--The Coast Guard is authorized an end-of-
year strength for active duty personnel of 43,000 for fiscal year 2015.
(b) Military Training Student Loads.--The Coast Guard is authorized
average military training student loads for fiscal year 2015 as follows:
(1) For recruit and special training, 2,500 student years.
(2) For flight training, 165 student years.
(3) For professional training in military and civilian
institutions, 350 student years.
(4) For officer acquisition, 1,200 student years.
TITLE II--COAST GUARD
SEC. 201. COMMISSIONED OFFICERS.
Section 42(a) of title 14, <<NOTE: 14 USC 42.>> United States Code,
is amended by striking ``7,200'' and inserting ``6,900''.
SEC. 202. COMMANDANT; APPOINTMENT.
Section 44 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by inserting
after the first sentence the following: <<NOTE: Time period.>> ``The
term of an appointment, and any reappointment, shall begin on June 1 of
the appropriate year and end on May 31 of the appropriate year, except
that, in the event of death, retirement, resignation, or reassignment,
or when the needs of the Service demand, the Secretary may alter the
date on which a term begins or ends if the alteration does not result in
the term exceeding a period of 4 years.''.
SEC. 203. PREVENTION AND RESPONSE WORKFORCES.
Section 57 of title 14, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (2) by striking ``or'' at the end;
(B) in paragraph (3) by striking the period at the
end and inserting a semicolon; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
[[Page 128 STAT. 3025]]
``(4) waterways operations manager shall have knowledge,
skill, and practical experience with respect to marine
transportation system management; or
``(5) port and facility safety and security specialist shall
have knowledge, skill, and practical experience with respect to
the safety, security, and environmental protection
responsibilities associated with maritime ports and
facilities.'';
(2) in subsection (c) by striking ``or marine safety
engineer'' and inserting ``marine safety engineer, waterways
operations manager, or port and facility safety and security
specialist''; and
(3) in subsection (f)(2) by striking ``investigator or
marine safety engineer.'' and inserting ``investigator, marine
safety engineer, waterways operations manager, or port and
facility safety and security specialist.''.
SEC. 204. CENTERS OF EXPERTISE.
Section 58(b) of title 14, <<NOTE: 14 USC 58.>> United States Code,
is amended to read as follows:
``(b) Missions.--Any center established under subsection (a) shall--
``(1) promote, facilitate, and conduct--
``(A) education;
``(B) training; and
``(C) activities authorized under section 93(a)(4);
``(2) be a repository of information on operations,
practices, and resources related to the mission for which the
center was established; and
``(3) perform and support the mission for which the center
was established.''.
SEC. 205. PENALTIES.
(a) Aids to Navigation and False Distress Messages.--Chapter 5 of
title 14, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in section 83 by striking ``$100'' and inserting
``$1,500'';
(2) in section 84 by striking ``$500'' and inserting
``$1,500'';
(3) in section 85 by striking ``$100'' and inserting
``$1,500''; and
(4) in section 88(c)(2) by striking ``$5,000'' and inserting
``$10,000''.
(b) Unauthorized Use of Words ``Coast Guard''.--Section 639 of title
14, United States Code, is amended by striking ``$1,000'' and inserting
``$10,000''.
SEC. 206. AGREEMENTS.
(a) In General.--Section 93(a)(4) of title 14, United States Code,
is amended--
(1) by striking ``, investigate'' and inserting ``and
investigate''; and
(2) by striking ``, and cooperate and coordinate such
activities with other Government agencies and with private
agencies''.
(b) Authority.--Chapter 5 of title 14, United States Code, as
amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
[[Page 128 STAT. 3026]]
``Sec. 102. <<NOTE: 14 USC 102.>> Agreements
``(a) In General.--In carrying out section 93(a)(4), the Commandant
may--
``(1) enter into cooperative agreements, contracts, and
other agreements with--
``(A) Federal entities;
``(B) other public or private entities in the United
States, including academic entities; and
``(C) foreign governments with the concurrence of
the Secretary of State; and
``(2) impose on and collect from an entity subject to an
agreement or contract under paragraph (1) a fee to assist with
expenses incurred in carrying out such section.
``(b) Deposit and Use of Fees.--Fees collected under this section
shall be deposited in the general fund of the Treasury as offsetting
receipts. The fees may be used, to the extent provided in advance in an
appropriation law, only to carry out activities under section
93(a)(4).''.
(c) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such <<NOTE: 14 USC prec.
81.>> chapter is amended by adding at the end the following:
``102. Agreements.''.
SEC. 207. TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM COVERAGE OF TEXTBOOKS AND
OTHER EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS.
Section 93(a)(7) of title 14, <<NOTE: 14 USC 93.>> United States
Code, is amended by inserting ``and the textbooks, manuals, and other
materials required as part of such training or course of instruction''
after ``correspondence courses''.
SEC. 208. COAST GUARD HOUSING.
(a) Commandant; General Powers.--Section 93(a)(13) of title 14,
United States Code, is amended by striking ``the Treasury'' and
inserting ``the fund established under section 687''.
(b) Lighthouse Property.--Section 672a(b) of title 14, United States
Code, is amended by striking ``the Treasury'' and inserting ``the fund
established under section 687''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 687(b) of title 14, United States
Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(4) Monies received under section 93(a)(13).
``(5) Amounts received under section 672a(b).''.
SEC. 209. LEASE AUTHORITY.
Section 93 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding at
the end the following:
``(f) Leasing of Tidelands and Submerged Lands.--
``(1) Authority.--The Commandant may lease under subsection
(a)(13) submerged lands and tidelands under the control of the
Coast Guard without regard to the limitation under that
subsection with respect to lease duration.
``(2) Limitation.--The Commandant may lease submerged lands
and tidelands under paragraph (1) only if--
``(A) lease payments are--
``(i) received exclusively in the form of
cash;
``(ii) equal to the fair market value of the
use of the leased submerged lands or tidelands for
the period during which such lands are leased, as
determined by the Commandant; and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3027]]
``(iii) deposited in the fund established
under section 687; and
``(B) the lease does not provide authority to or
commit the Coast Guard to use or support any
improvements to such submerged lands or tidelands, or
obtain goods or services from the lessee.''.
SEC. 210. NOTIFICATION OF CERTAIN DETERMINATIONS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 5 of title 14, United States Code, as
amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``Sec. 103. <<NOTE: 14 USC 103.>> Notification of certain
determinations
``(a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Public information.>> In General.--At least
90 days prior to making a final determination that a waterway, or a
portion thereof, is navigable for purposes of the jurisdiction of the
Coast Guard, the Commandant shall provide notification regarding the
proposed determination to--
``(1) the Governor of each State in which such waterway, or
portion thereof, is located;
``(2) the public; and
``(3) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
``(b) Content Requirement.--Each notification provided under
subsection (a) to an entity specified in paragraph (3) of that
subsection shall include--
``(1) an analysis of whether vessels operating on the
waterway, or portion thereof, subject to the proposed
determination are subject to inspection or similar regulation by
State or local officials;
``(2) an analysis of whether operators of commercial vessels
on such waterway, or portion thereof, are subject to licensing
or similar regulation by State or local officials; and
``(3) an estimate of the annual costs that the Coast Guard
may incur in conducting operations on such waterway, or portion
thereof.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such chapter, as amended
by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``103. Notification of certain determinations.''.
SEC. 211. ANNUAL BOARD OF VISITORS.
Section 194 of title 14, United States Code, is amended to read as
follows:
``Sec. 194. <<NOTE: 14 USC 194.>> Annual Board of Visitors
``(a) In General.--A Board of Visitors to the Coast Guard Academy is
established to review and make recommendations on the operation of the
Academy.
``(b) Membership.--
``(1) In general.--The membership of the Board shall consist
of the following:
``(A) The chairman of the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate, or the
chairman's designee.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3028]]
``(B) The chairman of the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives, or the chairman's designee.
``(C) 3 Members of the Senate designated by the Vice
President.
``(D) 4 Members of the House of Representatives
designated by the Speaker of the House of
Representatives.
``(E) 6 individuals designated by the President.
``(2) Length of service.--
``(A) Members of congress.--A Member of Congress
designated under subparagraph (C) or (D) of paragraph
(1) as a member of the Board shall be designated as a
member in the First Session of a Congress and serve for
the duration of that Congress.
``(B) Individuals designated by the president.--Each
individual designated by the President under
subparagraph (E) of paragraph (1) shall serve as a
member of the Board for 3 years, except that any such
member whose term of office has expired shall continue
to serve until a successor is appointed.
``(3) Death or resignation of a member.--If a member of the
Board dies or resigns, a successor shall be designated for any
unexpired portion of the term of the member by the official who
designated the member.
``(c) Academy Visits.--
``(1) Annual visit.--The Board shall visit the Academy
annually to review the operation of the Academy.
``(2) Additional visits.--With the approval of the
Secretary, the Board or individual members of the Board may make
other visits to the Academy in connection with the duties of the
Board or to consult with the Superintendent of the Academy.
``(d) Scope of Review.--The Board shall review, with respect to the
Academy--
``(1) the state of morale and discipline;
``(2) the curriculum;
``(3) instruction;
``(4) physical equipment;
``(5) fiscal affairs; and
``(6) other matters relating to the Academy that the Board
determines appropriate.
``(e) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>> Report.--Not later than 60 days
after the date of an annual visit of the Board under subsection (c)(1),
the Board shall submit to the Secretary, the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a
report on the actions of the Board during such visit and the
recommendations of the Board pertaining to the Academy.
``(f) Advisors.--If approved by the Secretary, the Board may consult
with advisors in carrying out this section.
``(g) Reimbursement.--Each member of the Board and each adviser
consulted by the Board under subsection (f) shall be reimbursed, to the
extent permitted by law, by the Coast Guard for actual expenses incurred
while engaged in duties as a member or adviser.''.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3029]]
SEC. 212. FLAG OFFICERS.
(a) In General.--Title 14, United States Code, is amended by
inserting after section 295 the following:
``Sec. 296. <<NOTE: 14 USC 296.>> Flag officers
``During any period in which the Coast Guard is not operating as a
service in the Navy, section 1216(d) of title 10 does not apply with
respect to flag officers of the Coast Guard.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of title 14,
United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 211.>> is amended by inserting
after the item relating to section 295 the following:
``296. Flag officers.''.
SEC. 213. REPEAL OF LIMITATION ON MEDALS OF HONOR.
Section 494 of title 14, United States Code, is amended by striking
``medal of honor,'' each place it appears.
SEC. 214. COAST GUARD FAMILY SUPPORT AND CHILD CARE.
(a) In General.--Title 14, United States Code, as amended by this
Act, is further amended by inserting after chapter 13 the following:
``CHAPTER 14 <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 531.>> --COAST GUARD FAMILY SUPPORT
AND CHILD CARE
``subchapter i--general provisions
``Sec.
``531. Work-life policies and programs.
``532. Surveys of Coast Guard families.
``subchapter ii--coast guard family support
``542. Education and training opportunities for Coast Guard spouses.
``543. Youth sponsorship initiatives.
``subchapter iii--coast guard child care
``551. Definitions.
``553. Child development center standards and inspections.
``554. Child development center employees.
``555. Parent partnerships with child development centers.
``SUBCHAPTER I--GENERAL PROVISIONS
``Sec. 531. <<NOTE: 14 USC 531.>> Work-life policies and programs
``The Commandant is authorized--
``(1) to establish an office for the purpose of developing,
promulgating, and coordinating policies, programs, and
activities related to the families of Coast Guard members;
``(2) to implement and oversee policies, programs, and
activities described in paragraph (1) as the Commandant
considers necessary; and
``(3) to perform such other duties as the Commandant
considers necessary.
``Sec. 532. <<NOTE: 14 USC 532.>> Surveys of Coast Guard families
``(a) Authority.--The Commandant, in order to determine the
effectiveness of Federal policies, programs, and activities related to
the families of Coast Guard members, may survey--
``(1) any Coast Guard member;
[[Page 128 STAT. 3030]]
``(2) any retired Coast Guard member;
``(3) the immediate family of any Coast Guard member or
retired Coast Guard member; and
``(4) any survivor of a deceased Coast Guard member.
``(b) Voluntary Participation.--Participation in any survey
conducted under subsection (a) shall be voluntary.
``(c) Federal Recordkeeping.--Each person surveyed under subsection
(a) shall be considered an employee of the United States for purposes of
section 3502(3)(A)(i) of title 44.
``SUBCHAPTER II <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 542.>> --COAST GUARD FAMILY SUPPORT
``Sec. 542. <<NOTE: 14 USC 542.>> Education and training
opportunities for Coast Guard spouses
``(a) Tuition Assistance.--The Commandant may provide, subject to
the availability of appropriations, tuition assistance to an eligible
spouse to facilitate the acquisition of--
``(1) education and training required for a degree or
credential at an accredited college, university, or technical
school in the United States that expands employment and portable
career opportunities for the spouse; or
``(2) education prerequisites and a professional license or
credential required, by a government or government-sanctioned
licensing body, for an occupation that expands employment and
portable career opportunities for the spouse.
``(b) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions
apply:
``(1) Eligible spouse.--
``(A) In general.--The term `eligible spouse' means
the spouse of a member of the Coast Guard who is serving
on active duty and includes a spouse who receives
transitional compensation under section 1059 of title
10.
``(B) Exclusion.--The term `eligible spouse' does
not include a person who--
``(i) is married to, but legally separated
from, a member of the Coast Guard under a court
order or statute of any State or territorial
possession of the United States; or
``(ii) is eligible for tuition assistance as a
member of the Armed Forces.
``(2) Portable career.--The term `portable career' includes
an occupation that requires education, training, or both that
results in a credential that is recognized by an industry,
profession, or specific type of business.
``Sec. 543. <<NOTE: 14 USC 543.>> Youth sponsorship initiatives
``(a) In General.--The Commandant is authorized to establish, within
any Coast Guard unit, an initiative to help integrate into new
surroundings the dependent children of members of the Coast Guard who
received permanent change of station orders.
``(b) Description of Initiative.--An initiative established under
subsection (a) shall--
``(1) provide for the involvement of a dependent child of a
member of the Coast Guard in the dependent child's new Coast
Guard community; and
``(2) primarily focus on preteen and teenaged children.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3031]]
``(c) Authority.--In carrying out an initiative under subsection
(a), the Commandant may--
``(1) provide to a dependent child of a member of the Coast
Guard information on youth programs and activities available in
the dependent child's new Coast Guard community; and
``(2) enter into agreements with nonprofit entities to
provide youth programs and activities to such child.
``SUBCHAPTER III <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 551.>> --COAST GUARD CHILD CARE
``Sec. 551. <<NOTE: 14 USC 551.>> Definitions
``In this subchapter, the following definitions apply:
``(1) Child abuse and neglect.--The term `child abuse and
neglect' has the meaning given that term in section 3 of the
Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (42 U.S.C. 5101 note).
``(2) Child development center employee.--The term `child
development center employee' means a civilian employee of the
Coast Guard who is employed to work in a Coast Guard child
development center without regard to whether the employee is
paid from appropriated or nonappropriated funds.
``(3) Coast guard child development center.--The term `Coast
Guard child development center' means a facility on Coast Guard
property or on property under the jurisdiction of the commander
of a Coast Guard unit at which child care services are provided
for members of the Coast Guard.
``(4) Competitive service position.--The term `competitive
service position' means a position in the competitive service
(as defined in section 2102 of title 5).
``(5) Family home daycare.--The term `family home daycare'
means home-based child care services provided for a member of
the Coast Guard by an individual who--
``(A) is certified by the Commandant as qualified to
provide home-based child care services; and
``(B) provides home-based child care services on a
regular basis in exchange for monetary compensation.
``Sec. 553. <<NOTE: 14 USC 553.>> Child development center
standards and inspections
``(a) Standards.--The Commandant shall require each Coast Guard
child development center to meet standards that the Commandant considers
appropriate to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of the children
and employees at the center.
``(b) Inspections.--The Commandant shall provide for regular and
unannounced inspections of each Coast Guard child development center to
ensure compliance with this section.
``(c) National Reporting.--
``(1) In general.--The Commandant shall maintain and
publicize a means by which an individual can report, with
respect to a Coast Guard child development center or a family
home daycare--
``(A) any suspected violation of--
``(i) standards established under subsection
(a); or
``(ii) any other applicable law or standard;
``(B) suspected child abuse or neglect; or
``(C) any other deficiency.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3032]]
``(2) Anonymous reporting.--The Commandant shall ensure that
an individual making a report pursuant to paragraph (1) may do
so anonymously if so desired by the individual.
``(3) Procedures.--The Commandant shall establish procedures
for investigating reports made pursuant to paragraph (1).
``Sec. 554. <<NOTE: 14 USC 554.>> Child development center
employees
``(a) Training.--
``(1) In general.--The Commandant shall establish a training
program for Coast Guard child development center employees and
satisfactory completion of the training program shall be a
condition of employment for each employee of a Coast Guard child
development center.
``(2) Timing for new hires.--The Commandant shall require
each employee of a Coast Guard child development center to
complete the training program established under paragraph (1)
not later than 6 months after the date on which the employee is
hired.
``(3) Minimum requirements.--The training program
established under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum,
instruction with respect to--
``(A) early childhood development;
``(B) activities and disciplinary techniques
appropriate to children of different ages;
``(C) child abuse and neglect prevention and
detection; and
``(D) cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other
emergency medical procedures.
``(4) Use of department of defense programs.--The Commandant
may use Department of Defense training programs, on a
reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis, for purposes of this
subsection.
``(b) Training and Curriculum Specialists.--
``(1) Specialist required.--The Commandant shall require
that at least 1 employee at each Coast Guard child development
center be a specialist in training and curriculum development
with appropriate credentials and experience.
``(2) Duties.--The duties of the specialist described in
paragraph (1) shall include--
``(A) special teaching activities;
``(B) daily oversight and instruction of other child
care employees;
``(C) daily assistance in the preparation of lesson
plans;
``(D) assisting with child abuse and neglect
prevention and detection; and
``(E) advising the director of the center on the
performance of the other child care employees.
``(3) Competitive service.--Each specialist described in
paragraph (1) shall be an employee in a competitive service
position.
``Sec. 555. <<NOTE: 14 USC 555.>> Parent partnerships with child
development centers
``(a) Parent Boards.--
``(1) Formation.--The Commandant shall require that there be
formed at each Coast Guard child development center
[[Page 128 STAT. 3033]]
a board of parents, to be composed of parents of children
attending the center.
``(2) Functions.--Each board of parents formed under
paragraph (1) shall--
``(A) meet periodically with the staff of the center
at which the board is formed and the commander of the
unit served by the center, for the purpose of discussing
problems and concerns; and
``(B) be responsible, together with the staff of the
center, for coordinating any parent participation
initiative established under subsection (b).
``(3) FACA.--The Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C.
App.) does not apply to a board of parents formed under
paragraph (1).
``(b) Parent Participation Initiative.--The Commandant is authorized
to establish a parent participation initiative at each Coast Guard child
development center to encourage and facilitate parent participation in
educational and related activities at the center.''.
(b) Transfer of Provisions.--
(1) In general.--
(A) Reimbursement for adoption expenses.--Section
514 of title 14, United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC
541.>> is redesignated as section 541 and transferred to
appear before section 542 of such title, as added by
subsection (a) of this section.
(B) Child development services.--Section 515 of
title 14, United States Code-- <<NOTE: 14 USC 552.>>
(i) is redesignated as section 552 and
transferred to appear after section 551 of such
title, as added by subsection (a) of this section;
and
(ii) is amended--
(I) in subsection (b)(2)(B) by
inserting ``and whether a family is
participating in an initiative
established under section 555(b)'' after
``family income'';
(II) by striking subsections (c) and
(e); and
(III) by redesignating subsection
(d) as subsection (c).
(C) Dependent school children.--Section 657 of title
14, United States Code-- <<NOTE: 14 USC 657.>>
(i) is redesignated as section 544 and
transferred to appear after section 543 of such
title, as added by subsection (a) of this section;
and
(ii) is amended in subsection (a) by striking
``Except as otherwise'' and all that follows
through ``the Secretary may'' and inserting ``The
Secretary may''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--
(A) Part i.--The analysis for part I of title 14,
United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 1.>> is amended
by inserting after the item relating to chapter 13 the
following:
``14. Coast Guard Family Support and Child Care...................531''.
(B) Chapter 13.--The analysis for chapter 13 of
title 14, United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec.
461.>> is amended--
(i) by striking the item relating to section
514; and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3034]]
(ii) by striking the item relating to section
515.
(C) Chapter 14.--The analysis for chapter 14 of
title 14, United States Code, as added by subsection (a)
of this section, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 531.>> is amended
by inserting--
(i) before the item relating to section 542
the following:
``541. Reimbursement for adoption expenses.'';
(ii) after the item relating to section 551
the following:
``552. Child development services.''; and
(iii) after the item relating to section 543
the following:
``544. Dependent school children.''.
(D) Chapter 17.--The analysis for chapter 17 of
title 14, United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec.
631.>> is amended by striking the item relating to
section 657.
(c) Commandant; General Powers.--Section 93(a)(7) of title 14,
United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by
inserting ``, and to eligible spouses as defined under section 542,''
after ``Coast Guard''.
(d) Sense of Congress.--
(1) In general.--It is the sense of Congress that the amount
of funds appropriated for a fiscal year for operating expenses
related to Coast Guard child development services should not be
less than the amount of the child development center fee
receipts estimated to be collected by the Coast Guard during
that fiscal year.
(2) Child development center fee receipts defined.--In this
subsection, the term ``child development center fee receipts''
means fees paid by members of the Coast Guard for child care
services provided at Coast Guard child development centers.
SEC. 215. MISSION NEED STATEMENT.
(a) In General.--Section 569 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended to read as follows:
``Sec. 569. <<NOTE: 14 USC 569.>> Mission need statement
``(a) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> In General.--On the date on which the
President submits to Congress a budget for fiscal year 2016 under
section 1105 of title 31, on the date on which the President submits to
Congress a budget for fiscal year 2019 under such section, and every 4
years 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 an
integrated major acquisition mission need statement.
``(b) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions
apply:
``(1) Integrated major acquisition mission need statement.--
The term `integrated major acquisition mission need statement'
means a document that--
``(A) identifies current and projected gaps in Coast
Guard mission capabilities using mission hour targets;
[[Page 128 STAT. 3035]]
``(B) explains how each major acquisition program
addresses gaps identified under subparagraph (A) if
funded at the levels provided for such program in the
most recently submitted capital investment plan; and
``(C) describes the missions the Coast Guard will
not be able to achieve, by fiscal year, for each gap
identified under subparagraph (A).
``(2) Major acquisition program.--The term `major
acquisition program' has the meaning given that term in section
569a(e).
``(3) Capital investment plan.--The term `capital investment
plan' means the plan required under section 663(a)(1).''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 15 of title 14,
United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 561.>> is amended by striking
the item relating to section 569 and inserting the following:
``569. Mission need statement.''.
SEC. 216. TRANSMISSION OF ANNUAL COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION
REQUEST.
(a) In General.--Title 14, United States Code, as amended by this
Act, is further amended by inserting after section 662 the following:
``Sec. 662a. <<NOTE: 14 USC 662a.>> Transmission of annual Coast
Guard authorization request
``(a) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> In General.--Not later than 30 days after
the date on which the President submits to Congress a budget for a
fiscal year pursuant to section 1105 of title 31, 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 Coast Guard authorization request with
respect to such fiscal year.
``(b) Coast Guard Authorization Request Defined.--In this section,
the term `Coast Guard authorization request' means a proposal for
legislation that, with respect to the Coast Guard for the relevant
fiscal year--
``(1) recommends end strengths for personnel for that fiscal
year, as described in section 661;
``(2) recommends authorizations of appropriations for that
fiscal year, including with respect to matters described in
section 662; and
``(3) addresses any other matter that the Secretary
determines is appropriate for inclusion in a Coast Guard
authorization bill.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for chapter 17 of title 14,
United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further amended by
inserting after the item relating to section 662 the following:
``662a. Transmission of annual Coast Guard authorization request.''.
SEC. 217. INVENTORY OF REAL PROPERTY.
(a) In General.--Chapter 17 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 679. <<NOTE: Deadlines. 14 USC 679.>> Inventory of real
property
``(a) In General.--Not later than September 30, 2015, the Commandant
shall establish an inventory of all real property,
[[Page 128 STAT. 3036]]
including submerged lands, under the control of the Coast Guard, which
shall include--
``(1) the size, the location, and any other appropriate
description of each unit of such property;
``(2) an assessment of the physical condition of each unit
of such property, excluding lands;
``(3) a determination of whether each unit of such property
should be--
``(A) retained to fulfill a current or projected
Coast Guard mission requirement; or
``(B) subject to divestiture; and
``(4) other information the Commandant considers
appropriate.
``(b) Inventory Maintenance.--The Commandant shall--
``(1) maintain the inventory required under subsection (a)
on an ongoing basis; and
``(2) update information on each unit of real property
included in such inventory not later than 30 days after any
change relating to the control of such property.
``(c) Recommendations to Congress.--Not later than March 30, 2016,
and every 5 years 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 that includes--
``(1) a list of all real property under the control of the
Coast Guard and the location of such property by property type;
``(2) recommendations for divestiture with respect to any
units of such property; and
``(3) recommendations for consolidating any units of such
property, including--
``(A) an estimate of the costs or savings associated
with each recommended consolidation; and
``(B) a discussion of the impact that such
consolidation would have on Coast Guard mission
effectiveness.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such chapter, as amended
by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
``679. Inventory of real property.''.
SEC. 218. RETIRED SERVICE MEMBERS AND DEPENDENTS SERVING ON
ADVISORY COMMITTEES.
(a) In General.--Chapter 17 of title 14, United States Code, as
amended by this Act, is further amended by adding at the end the
following:
``Sec. 680. <<NOTE: 14 USC 680.>> Retired service members and
dependents serving on advisory committees
``A committee that--
``(1) advises or assists the Coast Guard with respect to a
function that affects a member of the Coast Guard or a dependent
of such a member; and
``(2) includes in its membership a retired Coast Guard
member or a dependent of such a retired member;
shall not be considered an advisory committee under the Federal Advisory
Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) solely because of such membership.''.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3037]]
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such chapter, as amended
by this Act, is further amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 679 the following:
``680. Retired service members and dependents serving on advisory
committees.''.
SEC. 219. ACTIVE DUTY FOR EMERGENCY AUGMENTATION OF REGULAR
FORCES.
Section 712(a) of title 14, United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC
712.>> is amended by striking ``not more than 60 days in any 4-month
period and''.
SEC. 220. ACQUISITION WORKFORCE EXPEDITED HIRING AUTHORITY.
Section 404(b) of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Public
Law 111-281; 124 Stat. 2951) is amended by striking ``2015'' and
inserting ``2017''.
SEC. 221. COAST GUARD ADMINISTRATIVE SAVINGS.
(a) Elimination of Outdated and Duplicative Reports.--
(1) Marine industry training.--Section 59 of title 14,
United States Code, is amended--
(A) by striking ``(a) In General.--The Commandant''
and inserting ``The Commandant''; and
(B) by striking subsection (b).
(2) Operations and expenditures.--Section 651 of title 14,
United States Code, and the item relating to such section in the
analysis for chapter 17 of such title, are repealed.
(3) Drug interdiction.--Section 103 of the Coast Guard
Authorization Act of 1996 (14 U.S.C. 89 note), and the item
relating to that section in the table of contents in section 2
of that Act, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 631, 651.>> are repealed.
(4) National defense.--Section 426 of the Maritime
Transportation Security Act of 2002 (14 U.S.C. 2 note), and the
item relating to that section in the table of contents in
section 1(b) of that Act, are repealed.
(5) Living marine resources.--Section 4(b) of the Cruise
Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 (16 U.S.C. 1828 note) is
amended by adding at the end the following: ``No report shall be
required under this subsection, including that no report shall
be required under section 224 of the Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation Act of 2004 or section 804 of the Coast Guard and
Maritime Transportation Act of 2006, for fiscal years beginning
after fiscal year 2014.''.
(b) Consolidation and Reform of Reporting Requirements.--
(1) Marine safety.--
(A) In general.--Section 2116(d)(2)(B) of title 46,
United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
``(B) on the program's mission performance in
achieving numerical measurable goals established under
subsection (b), including--
``(i) the number of civilian and military
Coast Guard personnel assigned to marine safety
positions; and
``(ii) an identification of marine safety
positions that are understaffed to meet the
workload required to accomplish each activity
included in the strategy and plans under
subsection (a); and''.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3038]]
(B) Conforming amendment.--Section 57 of title 14,
United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further
amended--
(i) by striking subsection (e); and
(ii) by redesignating subsections (f), (g),
and (h) as subsections (e), (f), and (g)
respectively.
(2) Minor construction.--Section 656(d)(2) of title 14,
United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC 656.>> is amended to read as
follows:
``(2) Report.--Not later than the date on which the
President submits to Congress a budget under section 1105 of
title 31 each year, 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 describing each project
carried out under paragraph (1), in the most recently concluded
fiscal year, for which the amount expended under such paragraph
for such project was more than $1,000,000. If no such project
was carried out during a fiscal year, no report under this
paragraph shall be required with respect to that fiscal year.''.
SEC. 222. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO TITLE 14.
Title 14, United States Code, as amended by this Act, is further
amended--
(1) in section 93(b)(1) by striking ``Notwithstanding
subsection (a)(14)'' and inserting ``Notwithstanding subsection
(a)(13)''; and
(2) in section 197(b) by striking ``of Homeland Security''.
SEC. 223. <<NOTE: 14 USC 577 note.>> MULTIYEAR PROCUREMENT
AUTHORITY FOR OFFSHORE PATROL CUTTERS.
In fiscal year 2015 and each fiscal year thereafter, the Secretary
of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating may enter into,
in accordance with section 2306b of title 10, United States Code,
multiyear contracts for the procurement of Offshore Patrol Cutters and
associated equipment.
SEC. 224. MAINTAINING MEDIUM ENDURANCE CUTTER MISSION CAPABILITY.
Not <<NOTE: Deadlines. Reports. Plans.>> later than 120 days after
the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in
which the Coast Guard is operating shall submit to the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a
report that includes--
(1) a schedule and plan for decommissioning, not later than
September 30, 2029, each of the 210-foot, Reliance-Class Cutters
operated by the Coast Guard on the date of enactment of this
Act;
(2) a schedule and plan for enhancing the maintenance or
extending the service life of each of the 270-foot, Famous-Class
Cutters operated by the Coast Guard on the date of enactment of
this Act--
(A) to maintain the capability of the Coast Guard to
carry out sea-going missions with respect to such
Cutters at the level of capability existing on September
30, 2013; and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3039]]
(B) <<NOTE: Time period.>> for the period beginning
on the date of enactment of this Act and ending on the
date on which the final Offshore Patrol Cutter is
scheduled to be commissioned under paragraph (4);
(3) an identification of the number of Offshore Patrol
Cutters capable of sea state 5 operations that, if 8 National
Security Cutters are commissioned, are necessary to return the
sea state 5 operating capability of the Coast Guard to the level
of capability that existed prior to the decommissioning of the
first High Endurance Cutter in fiscal year 2011;
(4) a schedule and plan for commissioning the number of
Offshore Patrol Cutters identified under paragraph (3); and
(5) a schedule and plan for commissioning, not later than
September 30, 2034, a number of Offshore Patrol Cutters not
capable of sea state 5 operations that is equal to--
(A) 25; less
(B) the number of Offshore Patrol Cutters identified
under paragraph (3).
SEC. 225. AVIATION CAPABILITY.
(a) In General.--The Secretary of the department in which the Coast
Guard is operating may--
(1) request and accept through a direct military-to-military
transfer under section 2571 of title 10, United States Code,
such H-60 helicopters as may be necessary to establish a year-
round operational capability in the Coast Guard's Ninth
District; and
(2) use funds provided under section 101 of this Act to
convert such helicopters to Coast Guard MH-60T configuration.
(b) Prohibition.--
(1) In general.--The Coast Guard may not--
(A) close a Coast Guard air facility that was in
operation on November 30, 2014; or
(B) retire, transfer, relocate, or deploy an
aviation asset from an air facility described in
subparagraph (A) for the purpose of closing such
facility.
(2) Sunset.--This subsection is repealed effective January
1, 2016.
SEC. 226. GAPS IN WRITINGS ON COAST GUARD HISTORY.
Not <<NOTE: Deadline. Reports.>> later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to
the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and
the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives a report on any gaps that exist in writings on the
history of the Coast Guard. The report shall address, at a minimum,
operations, broad topics, and biographies with respect to the Coast
Guard.
SEC. 227. OFFICER EVALUATION REPORTS.
(a) Assessment Required.--Not later than 180 days after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall provide
to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate
and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives a written assessment of the Coast Guard's officer
evaluation reporting system.
(b) Contents of Assessment.--The assessment required under
subsection (a) shall include, at a minimum, an analysis of--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3040]]
(1) the extent to which the Coast Guard's officer evaluation
reports differ in length, form, and content from the officer
fitness reports used by the Navy and other branches of the Armed
Forces;
(2) the extent to which differences determined pursuant to
paragraph (1) are the result of inherent differences between--
(A) the Coast Guard and the Navy; and
(B) the Coast Guard and other branches of the Armed
Forces;
(3) the feasibility of more closely aligning and conforming
the Coast Guard's officer evaluation reports with the officer
fitness reports of the Navy and other branches of the Armed
Forces; and
(4) the costs and benefits of the alignment and conformity
described in paragraph (3), including with respect to--
(A) Coast Guard administrative efficiency;
(B) fairness and equity for Coast Guard officers;
and
(C) carrying out the Coast Guard's statutory mission
of defense readiness, including when operating as a
service in the Navy.
SEC. 228. <<NOTE: 14 USC 81.>> IMPROVED SAFETY INFORMATION FOR
VESSELS.
Not <<NOTE: Deadline.>> later than 1 year after the date of
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the department in which the
Coast Guard is operating shall establish a process that allows an
operator of a marine exchange or other non-Federal vessel traffic
information service to use the automatic identification system to
transmit weather, ice, and other important navigation safety information
to vessels.
SEC. 229. E-LORAN.
(a) In General.-- <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> The Secretary of the
department in which the Coast Guard is operating may not carry out
activities related to the dismantling or disposal of infrastructure that
supported the former LORAN system until the later of--
(1) the date that is 1 year after the date of enactment of
this Act; or
(2) the date on which the Secretary provides to the
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate notice of a determination by the
Secretary that such infrastructure is not required to provide a
positioning, navigation, and timing system to provide redundant
capability in the event GPS signals are disrupted.
(b) Exception.--Subsection (a) does not apply to activities
necessary for the safety of human life.
(c) Agreements.--The Secretary may enter into cooperative
agreements, contracts, and other agreements with Federal entities and
other public or private entities, including academic entities, to
develop a positioning, navigation, and timing system, including an
enhanced LORAN system, to provide redundant capability in the event GPS
signals are disrupted.
SEC. 230. ANALYSIS OF RESOURCE DEFICIENCIES WITH RESPECT TO
MARITIME BORDER SECURITY.
(a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Reports.>> In General.--Not later than 120
days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the
Coast Guard shall
[[Page 128 STAT. 3041]]
provide to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the
Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives a report
describing any Coast Guard resource deficiencies related to--
(1) securing maritime borders with respect to the Great
Lakes and the coastal areas of the Southeastern and Southwestern
United States, including with respect to Florida, California,
Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands;
(2) patrolling and monitoring maritime approaches to the
areas described in paragraph (1); and
(3) patrolling and monitoring relevant portions of the
Western Hemisphere Drug Transit Zone.
(b) Scope.--In preparing the report under subsection (a), the
Commandant shall consider, at a minimum--
(1) the Coast Guard's statutory missions with respect to
migrant interdiction, drug interdiction, defense readiness,
living marine resources, and ports, waterways, and coastal
security;
(2) whether Coast Guard missions are being executed to meet
national performance targets set under the National Drug Control
Strategy;
(3) the number and types of cutters and other vessels
required to effectively execute Coast Guard missions;
(4) the number and types of aircraft, including unmanned
aircraft, required to effectively execute Coast Guard missions;
(5) the number of assets that require upgraded sensor and
communications systems to effectively execute Coast Guard
missions;
(6) the Deployable Specialized Forces required to
effectively execute Coast Guard missions; and
(7) whether additional shoreside facilities are required to
accommodate Coast Guard personnel and assets in support of Coast
Guard missions.
SEC. 231. MODERNIZATION OF NATIONAL DISTRESS AND RESPONSE SYSTEM.
(a) Report.--Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is
operating shall submit to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives and the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate a report on the
implementation of the Rescue 21 project in Alaska and in Coast Guard
sectors Upper Mississippi River, Lower Mississippi River, and Ohio River
Valley.
(b) Contents.--The report required under subsection (a) shall--
(1) describe what improvements are being made to the
distress response system in the areas specified in subsection
(a), including information on which areas will receive digital
selective calling and direction finding capability;
(2) describe the impediments to installing digital selective
calling and direction finding capability in areas where such
technology will not be installed;
(3) identify locations in the areas specified in subsection
(a) where communication gaps will continue to present a risk to
mariners after completion of the Rescue 21 project;
[[Page 128 STAT. 3042]]
(4) include a list of all reported marine accidents,
casualties, and fatalities occurring in the locations identified
under paragraph (3) since 1990; and
(5) provide an estimate of the costs associated with
installing the technology necessary to close communication gaps
in the locations identified under paragraph (3).
SEC. 232. REPORT RECONCILING MAINTENANCE AND OPERATIONAL
PRIORITIES ON THE MISSOURI RIVER.
Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the
Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit to the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a
report that outlines a course of action to reconcile general maintenance
priorities for cutters with operational priorities on the Missouri
River.
SEC. 233. MARITIME SEARCH AND RESCUE ASSISTANCE POLICY ASSESSMENT.
(a) In General.--The Commandant of the Coast Guard shall assess the
Maritime Search and Rescue Assistance Policy as it relates to State and
local responders.
(b) Scope.--The assessment under subsection (a) shall consider, at a
minimum--
(1) the extent to which Coast Guard search and rescue
coordinators have entered into domestic search and rescue
agreements with State and local responders under the National
Search and Rescue Plan;
(2) whether the domestic search and rescue agreements
include the Maritime Search and Rescue Assistance Policy; and
(3) the extent to which Coast Guard sectors coordinate with
911 emergency centers, including ensuring the dissemination of
appropriate maritime distress check-sheets.
(c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of
this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall submit a report on the
assessment under subsection (a) to the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives.
TITLE III--SHIPPING AND NAVIGATION
SEC. 301. REPEAL.
Chapter 555 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) <<NOTE: 46 USC 55501.>> by repealing section 55501;
(2) by redesignating section 55502 as section 55501; and
(3) in the analysis by striking the items relating to
sections 55501 and 55502 <<NOTE: 46 USC prec. 55501.>> and
inserting the following:
``55501. United States Committee on the Marine Transportation System.''.
SEC. 302. DONATION OF HISTORICAL PROPERTY.
Section 51103 of title 46, United States Code, is amended by adding
at the end the following:
``(e) Donation for Historical Purposes.--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3043]]
``(1) In general.--The Secretary may convey the right,
title, and interest of the United States Government in any
property administered by the Maritime Administration, except
real estate or vessels, if--
``(A) <<NOTE: Determination.>> the Secretary
determines that such property is not needed by the
Maritime Administration; and
``(B) the recipient--
``(i) is a nonprofit organization, a State, or
a political subdivision of a State;
``(ii) agrees to hold the Government harmless
for any claims arising from exposure to hazardous
materials, including asbestos, polychlorinated
biphenyls, or lead paint, after conveyance of the
property;
``(iii) provides a description and explanation
of the intended use of the property to the
Secretary for approval;
``(iv) has provided to the Secretary proof, as
determined by the Secretary, of resources
sufficient to accomplish the intended use provided
under clause (iii) and to maintain the property;
``(v) agrees that when the recipient no longer
requires the property, the recipient shall--
``(I) return the property to the
Secretary, at the recipient's expense
and in the same condition as received
except for ordinary wear and tear; or
``(II) subject to the approval of
the Secretary, retain, sell, or
otherwise dispose of the property in a
manner consistent with applicable law;
and
``(vi) agrees to any additional terms the
Secretary considers appropriate.
``(2) <<NOTE: Determination.>> Reversion.--The Secretary
shall include in any conveyance under this subsection terms
under which all right, title, and interest conveyed by the
Secretary shall revert to the Government if the Secretary
determines the property has been used other than as approved by
the Secretary under paragraph (1)(B)(iii).''.
SEC. 303. SMALL SHIPYARDS.
Section 54101(i) of title 46, United States Code, <<NOTE: 46 USC
54101.>> is amended by striking ``2009 through 2013'' and inserting
``2015 through 2017''.
SEC. 304. DRUG TESTING REPORTING.
Section 7706 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a), by inserting ``an applicant for
employment by a Federal agency,'' after ``Federal agency,''; and
(2) in subsection (c), by--
(A) inserting ``or an applicant for employment by a
Federal agency'' after ``an employee''; and
(B) striking ``the employee.'' and inserting ``the
employee or the applicant.''.
SEC. 305. OPPORTUNITIES FOR SEA SERVICE VETERANS.
(a) Endorsements for Veterans.--Section 7101 of title 46, United
States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(j) The Secretary may issue a license under this section in a
class under subsection (c) to an applicant that--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3044]]
``(1) <<NOTE: Time period.>> has at least 3 months of
qualifying service on vessels of the uniformed services (as that
term is defined in section 101(a) of title 10) of appropriate
tonnage or horsepower within the 7-year period immediately
preceding the date of application; and
``(2) satisfies all other requirements for such a
license.''.
(b) Sea Service Letters.--
(1) In general.--Title 14, United States Code, is amended by
inserting after section 427 the following:
``Sec. 428. <<NOTE: 14 USC 428.>> Sea service letters
``(a) In General.--The Secretary shall provide a sea service letter
to a member or former member of the Coast Guard who--
``(1) accumulated sea service on a vessel of the armed
forces (as such term is defined in section 101(a) of title 10);
and
``(2) requests such letter.
``(b) Deadline.--Not later than 30 days after receiving a request
for a sea service letter from a member or former member of the Coast
Guard under subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide such letter to
such member or former member if such member or former member satisfies
the requirement under subsection (a)(1).''.
(2) Clerical amendment.--The analysis for chapter 11 of
title 14, United States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC prec. 211.>> is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 427 the
following:
``428. Sea service letters.''.
(c) <<NOTE: 46 USC 7302 note.>> Crediting of United States Armed
Forces Service, Training, and Qualifications.--
(1) Maximizing creditability.--The Secretary of the
department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in
implementing United States merchant mariner license,
certification, and document laws and the International
Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and
Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, shall maximize the extent to
which United States Armed Forces service, training, and
qualifications are creditable toward meeting the requirements of
such laws and such Convention.
(2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Notification.--Not later than 90
days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary
shall notify the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce,
Science, and Transportation of the Senate on the steps taken to
implement this subsection.
<<NOTE: 46 USC 7301 note.>> (d) Merchant Marine Post-Service Career
Opportunities.-- <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Not later than 180 days after the
date of enactment of this Act, the Commandant of the Coast Guard shall
take steps to promote better awareness, on an ongoing basis, among Coast
Guard personnel regarding post-service use of Coast Guard training,
education, and practical experience in satisfaction of requirements for
merchant mariner credentials under section 11.213 of title 46, Code of
Federal Regulations.
SEC. 306. CLARIFICATION OF HIGH-RISK WATERS.
Section 55305(e) of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3045]]
(A) by striking ``provide armed personnel aboard''
and inserting ``reimburse, subject to the availability
of appropriations, the owners or operators of''; and
(B) by inserting ``for the cost of providing armed
personnel aboard such vessels'' before ``if''; and
(2) by striking paragraphs (2) and (3) and inserting the
following:
``(2) In this subsection, the term `high-risk waters' means
waters so designated by the Commandant of the Coast Guard in the
maritime security directive issued by the Commandant and in
effect on the date on which an applicable voyage begins, if the
Secretary of Transportation--
``(A) determines that an act of piracy occurred in
the 12-month period preceding the date the voyage
begins; or
``(B) in such period, issued an advisory warning
that an act of piracy is possible in such waters.''.
SEC. 307. TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS.
(a) Title 46.--Section 2116(b)(1)(D) of title 46, United States
Code, <<NOTE: 46 USC 2116.>> is amended by striking ``section 93(c)''
and inserting ``section 93(c) of title 14''.
(b) Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006.--Section
304(a) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2006
(Public Law 109-241; 33 U.S.C. 1503 note) is amended by inserting ``and
from'' before ``the United States''.
(c) Deepwater Port Act of 1974.--Section 4(i) of the Deepwater Port
Act of 1974 (33 U.S.C. 1503(i)) is amended by inserting ``or that will
supply'' after ``be supplied with''.
SEC. 308. REPORT.
Not later than 1 year 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 number of jobs, including
vessel construction and vessel operating jobs, that would be created in
the United States maritime industry each year in 2015 through 2025 if
liquified natural gas exported from the United States were required to
be carried--
(1) before December 31, 2018, on vessels documented under
the laws of the United States; and
(2) on and after such date, on vessels documented under the
laws of the United States and constructed in the United States.
SEC. 309. FISHING SAFETY GRANT PROGRAMS.
(a) Fishing Safety Training Grant Program.--Section 4502(i)(4) of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``2010 through
2014'' and inserting ``2015 through 2017''.
(b) Fishing Safety Research Grant Program.--Section 4502(j)(4) of
title 46, United States Code, is amended by striking ``2010 through
2014'' and inserting ``2015 through 2017''.
SEC. 310. ESTABLISHMENT OF MERCHANT MARINE PERSONNEL ADVISORY
COMMITTEE.
(a) Establishment.--Chapter 81 of title 46, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
[[Page 128 STAT. 3046]]
``Sec. 8108. <<NOTE: 46 USC 8108.>> Merchant Marine Personnel
Advisory Committee
``(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Merchant
Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as `the
Committee'). The Committee--
``(1) shall act solely in an advisory capacity to the
Secretary through the Commandant of the Coast Guard on matters
relating to personnel in the United States merchant marine,
including training, qualifications, certification,
documentation, and fitness standards, and other matters as
assigned by the Commandant;
``(2) shall review and comment on proposed Coast Guard
regulations and policies relating to personnel in the United
States merchant marine, including training, qualifications,
certification, documentation, and fitness standards;
``(3) may be given special assignments by the Secretary and
may conduct studies, inquiries, workshops, and fact finding in
consultation with individuals and groups in the private sector
and with State or local governments;
``(4) shall advise, consult with, and make recommendations
reflecting its independent judgment to the Secretary;
``(5) shall meet not less than twice each year; and
``(6) may make available to Congress recommendations that
the Committee makes to the Secretary.
``(b) Membership.--
``(1) <<NOTE: Notice. Federal Register, publication.>> In
general.--The Committee shall consist of not more than 19
members who are appointed by and serve terms of a duration
determined by the Secretary. Before filling a position on the
Committee, the Secretary shall publish a notice in the Federal
Register soliciting nominations for membership on the Committee.
``(2) Required members.--Subject to paragraph (3), the
Secretary shall appoint as members of the Committee--
``(A) 9 United States citizens with active licenses
or certificates issued under chapter 71 or merchant
mariner documents issued under chapter 73, including--
``(i) 3 deck officers who represent the
viewpoint of merchant marine deck officers, of
whom--
``(I) 2 shall be licensed for oceans
any gross tons;
``(II) 1 shall be licensed for
inland river route with a limited or
unlimited tonnage;
``(III) 2 shall have a master's
license or a master of towing vessels
license;
``(IV) 1 shall have significant
tanker experience; and
``(V) to the extent practicable--
``(aa) 1 shall represent the
viewpoint of labor; and
``(bb) another shall
represent a management
perspective;
``(ii) 3 engineering officers who represent
the viewpoint of merchant marine engineering
officers, of whom--
``(I) 2 shall be licensed as chief
engineer any horsepower;
``(II) 1 shall be licensed as either
a limited chief engineer or a designated
duty engineer; and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3047]]
``(III) to the extent practicable--
``(aa) 1 shall represent a
labor viewpoint; and
``(bb) another shall
represent a management
perspective;
``(iii) 2 unlicensed seamen, of whom--
``(I) 1 shall represent the
viewpoint of able-bodied seamen; and
``(II) another shall represent the
viewpoint of qualified members of the
engine department; and
``(iv) 1 pilot who represents the viewpoint of
merchant marine pilots;
``(B) 6 marine educators, including--
``(i) 3 marine educators who represent the
viewpoint of maritime academies, including--
``(I) 2 who represent the viewpoint
of State maritime academies and are
jointly recommended by such State
maritime academies; and
``(II) 1 who represents either the
viewpoint of the State maritime
academies or the United States Merchant
Marine Academy; and
``(ii) 3 marine educators who represent the
viewpoint of other maritime training institutions,
1 of whom shall represent the viewpoint of the
small vessel industry;
``(C) 2 individuals who represent the viewpoint of
shipping companies employed in ship operation
management; and
``(D) 2 members who are appointed from the general
public.
``(3) Consultation.--The Secretary shall consult with the
Secretary of Transportation in making an appointment under
paragraph (2)(B)(i)(II).
``(c) Chairman and Vice Chairman.--The Secretary shall designate one
member of the Committee as the Chairman and one member of the Committee
as the Vice Chairman. The Vice Chairman shall act as Chairman in the
absence or incapacity of the Chairman, or in the event of a vacancy in
the office of the Chairman.
``(d) Subcommittees.--The Committee may establish and disestablish
subcommittees and working groups for any purpose consistent with this
section, subject to conditions imposed by the Committee. Members of the
Committee and additional persons drawn from the general public may be
assigned to such subcommittees and working groups. Only Committee
members may chair subcommittee or working groups.
``(e) Termination.--The Committee shall terminate on September 30,
2020.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such <<NOTE: 46 USC prec.
8101.>> chapter is amended by adding at the end the following:
``8108. Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee.''.
SEC. 311. TRAVEL AND SUBSISTENCE.
(a) Title 46, United States Code.--Section 2110 of title 46, United
States Code, <<NOTE: 46 USC 2110.>> is amended--
(1) by amending subsection (b) to read as follows:
``(b)(1) In addition to the collection of fees and charges
established under subsection (a), in providing a service or thing of
value
[[Page 128 STAT. 3048]]
under this subtitle the Secretary may accept in-kind transportation,
travel, and subsistence.
``(2) The value of in-kind transportation, travel, and subsistence
accepted under this paragraph may not exceed applicable per diem rates
set forth in regulations prescribed under section 464 of title 37.'';
and
(2) in subsection (c), by striking ``subsections (a) and
(b),'' and inserting ``subsection (a),''.
(b) Title 14, United States Code.--Section 664 of title 14, United
States Code, <<NOTE: 14 USC 664.>> is amended by redesignating
subsections (e) though (g) as subsections (f) through (h), respectively,
and by inserting after subsection (d) the following:
``(e)(1) In addition to the collection of fees and charges
established under this section, in the provision of a service or thing
of value by the Coast Guard the Secretary may accept in-kind
transportation, travel, and subsistence.
``(2) The value of in-kind transportation, travel, and subsistence
accepted under this paragraph may not exceed applicable per diem rates
set forth in regulations prescribed under section 464 of title 37.''.
(c) <<NOTE: 14 USC 664 note.>> Limitation.--The Secretary of the
Department in which the Coast Guard is operating may not accept in-kind
transportation, travel, or subsistence under section 664(e) of title 14,
United States Code, or section 2110(d)(4) of title 46, United States
Code, as amended by this section, until the Commandant of the Coast
Guard--
(1) amends the Standards of Ethical Conduct for members and
employees of the Coast Guard to include regulations governing
the acceptance of in-kind reimbursements; and
(2) <<NOTE: Notification.>> notifies the Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives of the amendments made under paragraph (1).
SEC. 312. PROMPT INTERGOVERNMENTAL NOTICE OF MARINE CASUALTIES.
Section 6101 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting after subsection (b) the following:
``(c) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Notice to State and Tribal Governments.--
Not later than 24 hours after receiving a notice of a major marine
casualty under this section, the Secretary shall notify each State or
federally recognized Indian tribe that is, or may reasonably be expected
to be, affected by such marine casualty.'';
(2) in subsection (h)--
(A) by striking ``(1)''; and
(B) by redesignating subsection (h)(2) as subsection
(i) of section 6101, and in such subsection--
(i) by striking ``paragraph,'' and inserting
``section,''; and
(ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (A)
through (D) as paragraphs (1) through (4); and
(3) by redesignating the last subsection as subsection (j).
SEC. 313. AREA CONTINGENCY PLANS.
Section 311(j)(4) of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33
U.S.C. 1321(j)(4)) is amended--
(1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``qualified personnel
of Federal, State, and local agencies.'' and inserting
``qualified--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3049]]
``(i) personnel of Federal, State, and local
agencies; and
``(ii) members of federally recognized Indian
tribes, where applicable.'';
(2) in subparagraph (B)(ii)--
(A) by striking ``and local'' and inserting ``,
local, and tribal''; and
(B) by striking ``wildlife;'' and inserting
``wildlife, including advance planning with respect to
the closing and reopening of fishing areas following a
discharge;'';
(3) in subparagraph (B)(iii), by striking ``and local'' and
inserting ``, local, and tribal''; and
(4) in subparagraph (C)--
(A) in clause (iv), by striking ``and Federal,
State, and local agencies'' and inserting ``, Federal,
State, and local agencies, and tribal governments'';
(B) by redesignating clauses (vii) and (viii) as
clauses (viii) and (ix), respectively; and
(C) by inserting after clause (vi) the following:
``(vii) include a framework for advance planning and
decisionmaking with respect to the closing and reopening
of fishing areas following a discharge, including
protocols and standards for the closing and reopening of
fishing areas;''.
SEC. 314. INTERNATIONAL ICE PATROL REFORM.
(a) In General.--Chapter 803 of title 46, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) in section 80301, <<NOTE: 46 USC 80301.>> by adding at
the end the following:
``(c) Payments.--Payments received pursuant to subsection (b)(1)
shall be credited to the appropriation for operating expenses of the
Coast Guard.'';
(2) in section 80302--
(A) in subsection (b), by striking ``An ice patrol
vessel'' and inserting ``The ice patrol'';
(B) in subsection (c)(1), by striking ``An ice
patrol vessel'' and inserting ``The ice patrol''; and
(C) in the first sentence of subsection (d), by
striking ``vessels'' and inserting ``aircraft''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 80304. Limitation on ice patrol data
``Notwithstanding sections 80301 and 80302, data collected by an ice
patrol conducted by the Coast Guard under this chapter may not be
disseminated to a vessel unless such vessel is--
``(1) documented under the laws of the United States; or
``(2) documented under the laws of a foreign country that
made the payment or contribution required under section 80301(b)
for the year preceding the year in which the data is
collected.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such <<NOTE: 46 USC prec.
80301.>> chapter is amended by adding at the end the following:
``80304. Limitation on ice patrol data.''.
(c) <<NOTE: 46 USC 80301 note.>> Effective Date.--This section shall
take effect on January 1, 2017.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3050]]
SEC. 315. OFFSHORE SUPPLY VESSEL THIRD-PARTY INSPECTION.
Section 3316 of title 46, United States Code, <<NOTE: 46 USC
3316.>> is amended by redesignating subsection (f) as subsection (g),
and by inserting after subsection (e) the following:
``(f)(1) <<NOTE: Delegation authority.>> Upon request of an owner or
operator of an offshore supply vessel, the Secretary shall delegate the
authorities set forth in paragraph (1) of subsection (b) with respect to
such vessel to a classification society to which a delegation is
authorized under that paragraph. A delegation by the Secretary under
this subsection shall be used for any vessel inspection and examination
function carried out by the Secretary, including the issuance of
certificates of inspection and all other related documents.
``(2) <<NOTE: Determination.>> If the Secretary determines that a
certificate of inspection or related document issued under authority
delegated under paragraph (1) of this subsection with respect to a
vessel has reduced the operational safety of that vessel, the Secretary
may terminate the certificate or document, respectively.
``(3) <<NOTE: Deadline. Reports.>> Not later than 2 years after the
date of the enactment of the Howard Coble Coast Guard and Maritime
Transportation Act of 2014, and for each year of the subsequent 2-year
period, the Secretary 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 report
describing--
``(A) the number of vessels for which a delegation was made
under paragraph (1);
``(B) any savings in personnel and operational costs
incurred by the Coast Guard that resulted from the delegations;
and
``(C) based on measurable marine casualty and other data,
any impacts of the delegations on the operational safety of
vessels for which the delegations were made, and on the crew on
those vessels.''.
SEC. 316. WATCHES.
Section 8104 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (d), by striking ``coal passers, firemen,
oilers, and water tenders'' and inserting ``and oilers''; and
(2) in subsection (g)(1), by striking ``(except the coal
passers, firemen, oilers, and water tenders)''.
SEC. 317. <<NOTE: 33 USC 1321 note.>> COAST GUARD RESPONSE PLAN
REQUIREMENTS.
(a) Vessel Response Plan Contents.--The Secretary of the department
in which the Coast Guard is operating shall require that each vessel
response plan prepared for a mobile offshore drilling unit includes
information from the facility response plan prepared for the mobile
offshore drilling unit regarding the planned response to a worst case
discharge, and to a threat of such a discharge.
(b) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Mobile offshore drilling unit.--The term ``mobile
offshore drilling unit'' has the meaning given that term in
section 1001 of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (33 U.S.C. 2701).
(2) Response plan.--The term ``response plan'' means a
response plan prepared under section 311(j) of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321(j)).
[[Page 128 STAT. 3051]]
(3) Worst case discharge.--The term ``worst case discharge''
has the meaning given that term under section 311(a) of the
Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1321(a)).
(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be
construed to require the Coast Guard to review or approve a facility
response plan for a mobile offshore drilling unit.
SEC. 318. REGIONAL CITIZENS' ADVISORY COUNCIL.
Section 5002(k)(3) of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (33 U.S.C.
2732(k)(3)) is amended by striking ``not more than $1,000,000'' and
inserting ``not less than $1,400,000''.
SEC. 319. UNINSPECTED PASSENGER VESSELS IN THE UNITED STATES
VIRGIN ISLANDS.
(a) In General.--Section 4105 of title 46, United States <<NOTE: 46
USC 4105.>> Code, is amended--
(1) by redesignating subsection (b) as subsection (c); and
(2) by inserting after subsection (a) the following:
``(b)(1) <<NOTE: Applicability. Determination.>> In applying this
title with respect to an uninspected vessel of less than 24 meters
overall in length that carries passengers to or from a port in the
United States Virgin Islands, the Secretary shall substitute `12
passengers' for `6 passengers' each place it appears in section 2101(42)
if the Secretary determines that the vessel complies with, as applicable
to the vessel--
``(A) the Code of Practice for the Safety of Small
Commercial Motor Vessels (commonly referred to as the
`Yellow Code'), as published by the U.K. Maritime and
Coastguard Agency and in effect on January 1, 2014; or
``(B) the Code of Practice for the Safety of Small
Commercial Sailing Vessels (commonly referred to as the
`Blue Code'), as published by such agency and in effect
on such date.
``(2) <<NOTE: Standards.>> If the Secretary establishes
standards to carry out this subsection--
``(A) such standards shall be identical to those
established in the Codes of Practice referred to in
paragraph (1); and
``(B) <<NOTE: Applicability.>> on any dates before
the date on which such standards are in effect, the
Codes of Practice referred to in paragraph (1) shall
apply with respect to the vessels referred to in
paragraph (1).''.
(b) Technical Correction.--Section 4105(c) of title 46, United
States Code, as redesignated by subsection (a)(1) of this section, is
amended by striking ``Within twenty-four months of the date of enactment
of this subsection, the'' and inserting ``The''.
SEC. 320. TREATMENT OF ABANDONED SEAFARERS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 111 of title 46, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 11113. <<NOTE: 46 USC 11113.>> Treatment of abandoned
seafarers
``(a) Abandoned Seafarers Fund.--
``(1) Establishment.--There is established in the Treasury a
separate account to be known as the Abandoned Seafarers Fund.
``(2) Authorized uses.--Amounts in the Fund may be
appropriated to the Secretary for use--
``(A) to pay necessary support of a seafarer--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3052]]
``(i) who--
``(I) was paroled into the United
States under section 212(d)(5) of the
Immigration and Nationality Act (8
U.S.C. 1182(d)(5)), or for whom the
Secretary has requested parole under
such section; and
``(II) is involved in an
investigation, reporting, documentation,
or adjudication of any matter that is
related to the administration or
enforcement of law by the Coast Guard;
or
``(ii) who--
``(I) is physically present in the
United States;
``(II) the Secretary determines was
abandoned in the United States; and
``(III) has not applied for asylum
under the Immigration and Nationality
Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.); and
``(B) to reimburse a vessel owner or operator for
the costs of necessary support of a seafarer who has
been paroled into the United States to facilitate an
investigation, reporting, documentation, or adjudication
of any matter that is related to the administration or
enforcement of law by the Coast Guard, if--
``(i) the vessel owner or operator is not
convicted of a criminal offense related to such
matter; or
``(ii) the Secretary determines that
reimbursement is appropriate.
``(3) Crediting of amounts to fund.--
``(A) In general.--Except as provided in
subparagraph (B), there shall be credited to the Fund
the following:
``(i) Penalties deposited in the Fund under
section 9 of the Act to Prevent Pollution from
Ships (33 U.S.C. 1908).
``(ii) Amounts reimbursed or recovered under
subsection (c).
``(B) Limitation.--Amounts may be credited to the
Fund under subparagraph (A) only if the unobligated
balance of the Fund is less than $5,000,000.
``(4) Report required.--On the date on which the President
submits each budget for a fiscal year pursuant to section 1105
of title 31, 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 describes--
``(A) the amounts credited to the Fund under
paragraph (2) for the preceding fiscal year; and
``(B) amounts in the Fund that were expended for the
preceding fiscal year.
``(b) Limitation.--Nothing in this section shall be construed--
``(1) to create a private right of action or any other
right, benefit, or entitlement to necessary support for any
person; or
``(2) to compel the Secretary to pay or reimburse the cost
of necessary support.
``(c) Reimbursement; Recovery.--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3053]]
``(1) In general.--A vessel owner or operator shall
reimburse the Fund an amount equal to the total amount paid from
the Fund for necessary support of a seafarer, if--
``(A) the vessel owner or operator--
``(i) during the course of an investigation,
reporting, documentation, or adjudication of any
matter under this Act that the Coast Guard
referred to a United States attorney or the
Attorney General, fails to provide necessary
support of a seafarer who was paroled into the
United States to facilitate the investigation,
reporting, documentation, or adjudication; and
``(ii) subsequently is--
``(I) convicted of a criminal
offense related to such matter; or
``(II) required to reimburse the
Fund pursuant to a court order or
negotiated settlement related to such
matter; or
``(B) the vessel owner or operator abandons a
seafarer in the United States, as determined by the
Secretary based on substantial evidence.
``(2) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Enforcement.--If a vessel owner or
operator fails to reimburse the Fund under paragraph (1) within
60 days after receiving a written, itemized description of
reimbursable expenses and a demand for payment, the Secretary
may--
``(A) proceed in rem against the vessel on which the
seafarer served in the Federal district court for the
district in which the vessel is found; and
``(B) withhold or revoke the clearance required
under section 60105 for the vessel and any other vessel
operated by the same operator (as that term is defined
in section 2(9)(a) of the Act to Prevent Pollution from
Ships (33 U.S.C. 1901(9)(a)) as the vessel on which the
seafarer served.
``(3) Obtaining clearance.--A vessel may obtain clearance
from the Secretary after it is withheld or revoked under
paragraph (2)(B) if the vessel owner or operator--
``(A) reimburses the Fund the amount required under
paragraph (1); or
``(B) provides a bond, or other evidence of
financial responsibility, sufficient to meet the amount
required to be reimbursed under paragraph (1).
``(4) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Notification required.--The
Secretary shall notify the vessel at least 72 hours before
taking any action under paragraph (2)(B).
``(d) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Abandons; abandoned.--Each of the terms `abandons' and
`abandoned' means--
``(A) a vessel owner's or operator's unilateral
severance of ties with a seafarer; or
``(B) a vessel owner's or operator's failure to
provide necessary support of a seafarer.
``(2) Fund.--The term `Fund' means the Abandoned Seafarers
Fund established under this section.
``(3) Necessary support.--The term `necessary support' means
normal wages and expenses the Secretary considers reasonable for
lodging, subsistence, clothing, medical care (including
hospitalization), repatriation, and any other support the
Secretary considers to be appropriate.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3054]]
``(4) Seafarer.--The term `seafarer' means an alien crew
member who is employed or engaged in any capacity on board a
vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States.
``(5) Vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the united
states.--The term `vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the
United States' has the meaning given that term in section
70502(c), except that it does not include a vessel that is--
``(A) owned, or operated under a bareboat charter,
by the United States, a State or political subdivision
thereof, or a foreign nation; and
``(B) not engaged in commerce.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such <<NOTE: 46 USC prec.
11101.>> chapter is amended by adding at the end the following:
``11113. Treatment of abandoned seafarers.''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 9 of the Act to Prevent Pollution
from Ships (33 U.S.C. 1908) is amended by adding at the end the
following:
``(g) Any penalty collected under subsection (a) or (b) that is not
paid under that subsection to the person giving information leading to
the conviction or assessment of such penalties shall be deposited in the
Abandoned Seafarers Fund established under section 11113 of title 46,
United States Code.''.
SEC. 321. WEBSITE.
(a) Reports to Secretary of Transportation; Incidents and Details.--
Section 3507(g)(3)(A) of title 46, United States <<NOTE: 46 USC
3507.>> Code, is amended--
(1) in clause (ii) by striking ``the incident to an Internet
based portal maintained by the Secretary'' and inserting ``each
incident specified in clause (i) to the Internet website
maintained by the Secretary of Transportation under paragraph
(4)(A)''; and
(2) in clause (iii) by striking ``based portal maintained by
the Secretary'' and inserting ``website maintained by the
Secretary of Transportation under paragraph (4)(A)''.
(b) Availability of Incident Data on Internet.--Section 3507(g)(4)
of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking subparagraph (A) and inserting the
following:
``(A) Website.--
``(i) In general.--The Secretary of
Transportation shall maintain a statistical
compilation of all incidents on board a cruise
vessel specified in paragraph (3)(A)(i) on an
Internet website that provides a numerical
accounting of the missing persons and alleged
crimes reported under that paragraph without
regard to the investigative status of the
incident.
``(ii) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> Updates and other
requirements.--The compilation under clause (i)
shall--
``(I) be updated not less frequently
than quarterly;
``(II) be able to be sorted by
cruise line;
``(III) identify each cruise line by
name;
``(IV) identify each crime or
alleged crime committed or allegedly
committed by a passenger or crewmember;
[[Page 128 STAT. 3055]]
``(V) identify the number of
individuals alleged overboard; and
``(VI) include the approximate
number of passengers and crew carried by
each cruise line during each quarterly
reporting period.
``(iii) User-friendly format.--The Secretary
of Transportation shall ensure that the
compilation, data, and any other information
provided on the Internet website maintained under
this subparagraph are in a user-friendly format.
The Secretary shall, to the greatest extent
practicable, use existing commercial off the shelf
technology to transfer and establish the website,
and shall not independently develop software, or
acquire new hardware in operating the site.''; and
(2) in subparagraph (B) by striking ``Secretary'' and
inserting ``Secretary of Transportation''.
SEC. 322. COAST GUARD REGULATIONS.
(a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Analysis.>> 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 submit to the
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives an analysis of the Coast Guard's proposed promulgation
of safety and environmental management system requirements for vessels
engaged in Outer Continental Shelf activities. The analysis shall
include--
(1) a discussion of any new operational, management, design
and construction, financial, and other mandates that would be
imposed on vessel owners and operators;
(2) an estimate of all associated direct and indirect
operational, management, personnel, training, vessel design and
construction, record keeping, and other costs;
(3) an identification and justification of any of such
proposed requirements that exceed those in international
conventions applicable to the design, construction, operation,
and management of vessels engaging in United States Outer
Continental Shelf activities; and
(4) an identification of exemptions to the proposed
requirements, that are based upon vessel classification,
tonnage, offshore activity or function, alternative
certifications, or any other appropriate criteria.
(b) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Limitation.--The Secretary may not issue
proposed regulations relating to safety and environmental management
system requirements for vessels on the United States Outer Continental
Shelf for which noticed was published on September 10, 2013 (78 Fed.
Reg. 55230) earlier than 6 months after the submittal of the analysis
required by subsection (a).
TITLE IV--FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION
SEC. 401. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.
There is authorized to be appropriated to the Federal Maritime
Commission $24,700,000 for fiscal year 2015.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3056]]
SEC. 402. AWARD OF REPARATIONS.
Section 41305 of title 46, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (b), by striking ``, plus reasonable
attorney fees''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(e) Attorney Fees.--In any action brought under section 41301, the
prevailing party may be awarded reasonable attorney fees.''.
SEC. 403. TERMS OF COMMISSIONERS.
(a) In General.--Section 301(b) of title 46, United States Code, is
amended--
(1) by amending paragraph (2) to read as follows:
``(2) Terms.--The term of each Commissioner is 5 years. When
the term of a Commissioner ends, the Commissioner may continue
to serve until a successor is appointed and qualified, but for a
period not to exceed one year. Except as provided in paragraph
(3), no individual may serve more than 2 terms.''; and
(2) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (5), and
inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Vacancies.--A vacancy shall be filled in the same
manner as the original appointment. An individual appointed to
fill a vacancy is appointed only for the unexpired term of the
individual being succeeded. An individual appointed to fill a
vacancy may serve 2 terms in addition to the remainder of the
term for which the predecessor of that individual was appointed.
``(4) Conflicts of interest.--
``(A) Limitation on relationships with regulated
entities.--A Commissioner may not have a pecuniary
interest in, hold an official relation to, or own stocks
or bonds of any entity the Commission regulates under
chapter 401 of this title.
``(B) Limitation on other activities.--A
Commissioner may not engage in another business,
vocation, or employment.''.
(b) <<NOTE: 46 USC 301 note.>> Applicability.--The amendment made by
subsection (a)(1) does not apply with respect to a Commissioner of the
Federal Maritime Commission appointed and confirmed by the Senate before
the date of the enactment of this Act.
TITLE V--ARCTIC MARITIME TRANSPORTATION
SEC. 501. ARCTIC MARITIME TRANSPORTATION.
(a) Arctic Maritime Transportation.--Chapter 5 of title 14, United
States Code, is amended by inserting after section 89 the following:
``Sec. 90. <<NOTE: Safety. 14 USC 90.>> Arctic maritime
transportation
``(a) Purpose.--The purpose of this section is to ensure safe and
secure maritime shipping in the Arctic including the availability of
aids to navigation, vessel escorts, spill response capability, and
maritime search and rescue in the Arctic.
[[Page 128 STAT. 3057]]
``(b) <<NOTE: Foreign nations.>> International Maritime Organization
Agreements.--To carry out the purpose of this section, the Secretary is
encouraged to enter into negotiations through the International Maritime
Organization to conclude and execute agreements to promote coordinated
action among the United States, Russia, Canada, Iceland, Norway, and
Denmark and other seafaring and Arctic nations to ensure, in the
Arctic--
``(1) placement and maintenance of aids to navigation;
``(2) appropriate marine safety, tug, and salvage
capabilities;
``(3) oil spill prevention and response capability;
``(4) maritime domain awareness, including long-range vessel
tracking; and
``(5) search and rescue.
``(c) Coordination by Committee on the Maritime Transportation
System.--The Committee on the Maritime Transportation System established
under section 55501 of title 46, United States Code, shall coordinate
the establishment of domestic transportation policies in the Arctic
necessary to carry out the purpose of this section.
``(d) Agreements and Contracts.--The Secretary may, subject to the
availability of appropriations, enter into cooperative agreements,
contracts, or other agreements with, or make grants to, individuals and
governments to carry out the purpose of this section or any agreements
established under subsection (b).
``(e) Icebreaking.--The Secretary shall promote safe maritime
navigation by means of icebreaking where necessary, feasible, and
effective to carry out the purposes of this section.
``(f) Arctic Definition.--In this section, the term `Arctic'? has
the meaning given such term in section 112 of the Arctic Research and
Policy Act of 1984 (15 U.S.C. 4111).''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such <<NOTE: 14 USC prec.
81.>> chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section
89 the following:
``90. Arctic maritime transportation''.
(c) Conforming Amendment.--Section 307 of the Coast Guard
Authorization Act of 2010 (Public Law 111-281; 14 U.S.C. 92 note) is
repealed.
SEC. 502. ARCTIC MARITIME DOMAIN AWARENESS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 7 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended by adding at the end the following:
``Sec. 154. <<NOTE: 14 USC 154.>> Arctic maritime domain awareness
``(a) In General.--The Commandant shall improve maritime domain
awareness in the Arctic--
``(1) by promoting interagency cooperation and coordination;
``(2) by employing joint, interagency, and international
capabilities; and
``(3) by facilitating the sharing of information,
intelligence, and data related to the Arctic maritime domain
between the Coast Guard and departments and agencies listed in
subsection (b).
``(b) Coordination.--The Commandant shall seek to coordinate the
collection, sharing, and use of information, intelligence, and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3058]]
data related to the Arctic maritime domain between the Coast Guard and
the following:
``(1) The Department of Homeland Security.
``(2) The Department of Defense.
``(3) The Department of Transportation.
``(4) The Department of State.
``(5) The Department of the Interior.
``(6) The National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
``(7) The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
``(8) The Environmental Protection Agency.
``(9) The National Science Foundation.
``(10) The Arctic Research Commission.
``(11) Any Federal agency or commission or State the
Commandant determines is appropriate.
``(c) Cooperation.--The Commandant and the head of a department or
agency listed in subsection (b) may by agreement, on a reimbursable
basis or otherwise, share personnel, services, equipment, and facilities
to carry out the requirements of this section.
``(d) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> 5-year Strategic Plan.--Not later than
January 1, 2016 and every 5 years thereafter, the Commandant shall
submit to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the
Senate and the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the
House of Representatives a 5-year strategic plan to guide interagency
and international intergovernmental cooperation and coordination for the
purpose of improving maritime domain awareness in the Arctic.
``(e) Definitions.--In this section the term `Arctic' has the
meaning given that term in section 112 of the Arctic Research and Policy
Act of 1984 (15 U.S.C. 4111).''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such <<NOTE: 14 USC prec.
141.>> chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to
section 153 the following:
``154. Arctic maritime domain awareness.''.
SEC. 503. IMO POLAR CODE NEGOTIATIONS.
Not <<NOTE: Deadline. Reports.>> later than 30 days after the date
of the enactment of this Act, and thereafter with the submission of the
budget proposal submitted for each of fiscal years 2016, 2017, and 2018
under section 1105 of title 31, United States Code, the Secretary of the
department in which the Coast Guard is operating 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--
(1) the status of the negotiations at the International
Maritime Organization regarding the establishment of a draft
international code of safety for ships operating in polar
waters, popularly known as the Polar Code, and any amendments
proposed by such a code to be made to the International
Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and the International
Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships;
(2) the coming into effect of such a code and such
amendments for nations that are parties to those conventions;
(3) impacts, for coastal communities located in the Arctic
(as that term is defined in the section 112 of the Arctic
Research and Policy Act of 1984 (15 U.S.C. 4111)) of such a code
or such amendments, on--
(A) the costs of delivering fuel and freight; and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3059]]
(B) the safety of maritime transportation; and
(4) actions the Secretary must take to implement the
requirements of such a code and such amendments.
SEC. 504. FORWARD OPERATING FACILITIES.
The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is
operating may construct facilities in the Arctic (as that term is
defined in section 112 of the Arctic Research and Policy Act of 1984 (15
U.S.C. 4111). The facilities shall--
(1) support aircraft maintenance, including exhaust
ventilation, heat, an engine wash system, fuel, ground support
services, and electrical power;
(2) provide shelter for both current helicopter assets and
those projected to be located at Air Station Kodiak, Alaska, for
at least 20 years; and
(3) include accommodations for personnel.
SEC. 505. ICEBREAKERS.
(a) Coast Guard Polar Icebreakers.--Section 222 of the Coast Guard
and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 (Public Law 112-213; 126 Stat.
1560) is amended--
(1) in subsection (d)(2)--
(A) in the paragraph heading by striking ``;
bridging strategy''; and
(B) by striking ``Commandant of the Coast Guard''
and all that follows through the period at the end and
inserting ``Commandant of the Coast Guard may
decommission the Polar Sea.'';
(2) by adding at the end of subsection (d) the following:
``(3) Result of no determination.--If in the analysis
submitted under this section the Secretary does not make a
determination under subsection (a)(5) regarding whether it is
cost effective to reactivate the Polar Sea, then--
``(A) the Commandant of the Coast Guard may
decommission the Polar Sea; or
``(B) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> the Secretary may make
such determination, not later than 90 days after the
date of the enactment of Howard Coble Coast Guard and
Maritime Transportation Act of 2014, and take actions in
accordance with this subsection as though such
determination was made in the analysis previously
submitted.'';
(3) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and (g) as
subsections (f), (g), and (h), respectively; and
(4) by inserting after subsection (d) the following:
``(e) Strategies.--
``(1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> In general.--Not later than 180
days after the date on which the analysis required under
subsection (a) is submitted, 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) unless the Secretary makes a determination
under this section that it is cost effective to
reactivate the Polar Sea, a bridging strategy for
maintaining the Coast Guard's polar icebreaking services
until at least September 30, 2024;
``(B) a strategy to meet the Coast Guard's Arctic
ice operations needs through September 30, 2050; and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3060]]
``(C) a strategy to meet the Coast Guard's Antarctic
ice operations needs through September 30, 2050
``(2) <<NOTE: Analysis.>> Requirement.--The strategies
required under paragraph (1) shall include a business case
analysis comparing the leasing and purchasing of icebreakers to
maintain the needs and services described in that paragraph.''.
(b) <<NOTE: Plans. Time period.>> Cutter ``Polar Sea''.--Upon the
submission of a service life extension plan in accordance with section
222(d)(1)(C) of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012
(Public Law 112-213; 126 Stat. 1560), the Secretary of the department in
which the Coast Guard is operating may use funds authorized under
section 101 of this Act to conduct a service life extension of 7 to 10
years for the Coast Guard Cutter Polar Sea (WAGB 11) in accordance with
such plan.
(c) Limitation.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of the department in which
the Coast Guard is operating may not expend amounts appropriated
for the Coast Guard for any of fiscal years 2015 through 2024,
for--
(A) design activities related to a capability of a
Polar-Class Icebreaker that is based solely on an
operational requirement of another Federal department or
agency, except for amounts appropriated for design
activities for a fiscal year before fiscal year 2016; or
(B) long-lead-time materials, production, or post-
delivery activities related to such a capability.
(2) Other amounts.--Amounts made available to the Secretary
under an agreement with another Federal department or agency and
expended on a capability of a Polar-Class Icebreaker that is
based solely on an operational requirement of that or another
Federal department or agency shall not be treated as amounts
expended by the Secretary for purposes of the limitation
established under paragraph (1).
SEC. 506. ICEBREAKING IN POLAR REGIONS.
(a) In General.--Chapter 5 of title 14, United States Code, is
amended by inserting after section 86 the following:
``Sec. 87. <<NOTE: 14 USC 87.>> Icebreaking in polar regions
``The <<NOTE: President.>> President shall facilitate planning for
the design, procurement, maintenance, deployment, and operation of
icebreakers as needed to support the statutory missions of the Coast
Guard in the polar regions by allocating all funds to support
icebreaking operations in such regions, except for recurring incremental
costs associated with specific projects, to the Coast Guard.''.
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The analysis for such <<NOTE: 14 USC prec.
81.>> chapter is amended by inserting after the item relating to section
86 the following:
``87. Icebreaking in polar regions.''.
TITLE VI--MISCELLANEOUS
SEC. 601. DISTANT WATER TUNA FLEET.
Section 421 of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of
2006 (46 U.S.C. 8103 note) is amended--
(1) by striking subsections (c) and (e); and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3061]]
(2) by redesignating subsections (d) and (f) as subsections
(c) and (d), respectively.
SEC. 602. EXTENSION OF MORATORIUM.
Section 2(a) of Public Law 110-299 (33 U.S.C. 1342 note) is amended
by striking ``2014'' and inserting ``2017''.
SEC. 603. NATIONAL MARITIME STRATEGY.
(a) <<NOTE: Deadline. Consultation.>> In General.--Not later than 60
days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of
Transportation, in consultation with the Secretary of the department in
which the Coast Guard is operating, 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
national maritime strategy.
(b) Contents.--The strategy required under subsection (a) shall--
(1) identify--
(A) Federal regulations and policies that reduce the
competitiveness of United States flag vessels in
international transportation markets; and
(B) the impact of reduced cargo flow due to
reductions in the number of members of the United States
Armed Forces stationed or deployed outside of the United
States; and
(2) <<NOTE: Recommenda- tions.>> include recommendations
to--
(A) make United States flag vessels more competitive
in shipping routes between United States and foreign
ports;
(B) increase the use of United States flag vessels
to carry cargo imported to and exported from the United
States;
(C) ensure compliance by Federal agencies with
chapter 553 of title 46, United States Code;
(D) increase the use of third-party inspection and
certification authorities to inspect and certify
vessels;
(E) increase the use of short sea transportation
routes, including routes designated under section
55601(c) of title 46, United States Code, to enhance
intermodal freight movements; and
(F) enhance United States shipbuilding capability.
SEC. 604. WAIVERS.
(a) ``John Craig''.--
(1) In general.--Section 8902 of title 46, United States
Code, shall not apply to the vessel John Craig (United States
official number D1110613) when such vessel is operating on the
portion of the Kentucky River, Kentucky, located at
approximately mile point 158, in Pool Number 9, between Lock and
Dam Number 9 and Lock and Dam Number 10.
(2) Application.--Paragraph (1) shall apply on and after the
date on which the Secretary of the department in which the Coast
Guard is operating determines that a licensing requirement has
been established under Kentucky State law that applies to an
operator of the vessel John Craig.
(b) ``F/V Western Challenger''.--Notwithstanding section 12132 of
title 46, United States Code, the Secretary of the department in which
the Coast Guard is operating may issue a certificate
[[Page 128 STAT. 3062]]
of documentation with a coastwise endorsement for the F/V Western
Challenger (IMO number 5388108).
SEC. 605. COMPETITION BY UNITED STATES FLAG VESSELS.
(a) <<NOTE: Contracts. Assessment.>> In General.--The Commandant of
the Coast Guard shall enter into an arrangement with the National
Academy of Sciences to conduct an assessment of authorities under
subtitle II of title 46, United States Code, that have been delegated to
the Coast Guard and that impact the ability of vessels documented under
the laws of the United States to effectively compete in international
transportation markets.
(b) Review of Differences With IMO Standards.--The assessment under
subsection (a) shall include a review of differences between United
States laws, policies, regulations, and guidance governing the
inspection of vessels documented under the laws of the United States and
standards set by the International Maritime Organization governing the
inspection of vessels.
(c) Deadline.--Not later than 180 days after the date on which the
Commandant enters into an arrangement with the National Academy of
Sciences under subsection (a), the Commandant shall submit to the
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate the assessment required under such
subsection.
SEC. 606. VESSEL REQUIREMENTS FOR NOTICES OF ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE
AND AUTOMATIC IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM.
Not <<NOTE: Deadline. Notification. Regulations.>> later than 30
days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the
department in which the Coast Guard is operating shall notify the
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure of the House of
Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate of the status of the final rule that
relates to the notice of proposed rulemaking titled ``Vessel
Requirements for Notices of Arrival and Departure, and Automatic
Identification System'' and published in the Federal Register on
December 16, 2008 (73 Fed. Reg. 76295).
SEC. 607. CONVEYANCE OF COAST GUARD PROPERTY IN ROCHESTER, NEW
YORK.
(a) Conveyance Authorized.--The Commandant of the Coast Guard is
authorized to convey, at fair market value, all right, title, and
interest of the United States in and to a parcel of real property,
consisting of approximately 0.2 acres, that is under the administrative
control of the Coast Guard and located at 527 River Street in Rochester,
New York.
(b) Right of First Refusal.--The City of Rochester, New York, shall
have the right of first refusal with respect to the purchase, at fair
market value, of the real property described in subsection (a).
(c) Survey.--The exact acreage and legal description of the property
described in subsection (a) shall be determined by a survey satisfactory
to the Commandant.
(d) Fair Market Value.--The fair market value of the property
described in subsection (a) shall--
(1) be determined by appraisal; and
(2) be subject to the approval of the Commandant.
(e) Costs of Conveyance.--The responsibility for all reasonable and
necessary costs, including real estate transaction and
[[Page 128 STAT. 3063]]
environmental documentation costs, associated with a conveyance under
subsection (a) shall be determined by the Commandant and the purchaser.
(f) Additional Terms and Conditions.--The Commandant may require
such additional terms and conditions in connection with a conveyance
under subsection (a) as the Commandant considers appropriate and
reasonable to protect the interests of the United States.
(g) Deposit of Proceeds.--Any proceeds from a conveyance under
subsection (a) shall be deposited in the fund established under section
687 of title 14, United States Code.
SEC. 608. CONVEYANCE OF CERTAIN PROPERTY IN GIG HARBOR,
WASHINGTON.
(a) Definitions.--In this section, the following definitions apply:
(1) City.--The term ``City'' means the city of Gig Harbor,
Washington.
(2) Property.--The term ``Property'' means the parcel of
real property, together with any improvements thereon,
consisting of approximately 0.86 acres of fast lands commonly
identified as tract 65 of lot 1 of section 8, township 21 north,
range 2 east, Willamette Meridian, on the north side of the
entrance of Gig Harbor, narrows of Puget Sound, Washington.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary
of the Interior.
(b) Conveyance.--
(1) <<NOTE: Deadline.>> Authority to convey.--Not later than
30 days after the date on which the Secretary of the department
in which the Coast Guard is operating relinquishes the
reservation of the Property for lighthouse purposes, at the
request of the City and subject to the requirements of this
section, the Secretary shall convey to the City all right,
title, and interest of the United States in and to the Property,
notwithstanding the land use planning requirements of sections
202 and 203 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of
1976 (43 U.S.C. 1712, 1713).
(2) Terms of conveyance.--A conveyance made under paragraph
(1) shall be made--
(A) subject to valid existing rights;
(B) at the fair market value as described in
subsection (c); and
(C) subject to any other condition that the
Secretary may consider appropriate to protect the
interests of the United States.
(3) Costs.--The City shall pay any transaction or
administrative costs associated with a conveyance under
paragraph (1), including the costs of the appraisal, title
searches, maps, and boundary and cadastral surveys.
(4) Conveyance is not a major federal action.--A conveyance
under paragraph (1) shall not be considered a major Federal
action for purposes of section 102(2) of the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4332(2)).
(c) Fair Market Value.--
(1) Determination.--The fair market value of the Property
shall be--
[[Page 128 STAT. 3064]]
(A) determined by an appraisal conducted by an
independent appraiser selected by the Secretary; and
(B) approved by the Secretary in accordance with
paragraph (3).
(2) Requirements.--An appraisal conducted under paragraph
(1) shall--
(A) be conducted in accordance with nationally
recognized appraisal standards, including--
(i) the Uniform Appraisal Standards for
Federal Land Acquisitions; and
(ii) the Uniform Standards of Professional
Appraisal Practice; and
(B) shall reflect the equitable considerations
described in paragraph (3).
(3) Equitable considerations.--In approving the fair market
value of the Property under this subsection, the Secretary shall
take into consideration matters of equity and fairness,
including the City's past and current lease of the Property, any
maintenance or improvements by the City to the Property, and
such other factors as the Secretary considers appropriate.
(d) <<NOTE: Effective date.>> Revocation; Reversion.--Effective on
and after the date on which a conveyance of the Property is made under
subsection (b)(1)--
(1) Executive Order 3528, dated August 9, 1921, is revoked;
and
(2) the use of the tide and shore lands belonging to the
State of Washington and adjoining and bordering the Property,
that were granted to the Government of the United States
pursuant to the Act of the Legislature, State of Washington,
approved March 13, 1909, the same being chapter 110 of the
Session Laws of 1909, shall revert to the State of Washington.
SEC. 609. VESSEL DETERMINATION.
The <<NOTE: Effective date.>> vessel assigned United States official
number 1205366 is deemed a new vessel effective on the date of delivery
of the vessel after January 1, 2012, from a privately owned United
States shipyard, if no encumbrances are on record with the Coast Guard
at the time of the issuance of the new certificate of documentation for
the vessel.
SEC. 610. SAFE VESSEL OPERATION IN THUNDER BAY.
The Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is
operating and the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency
may not prohibit a vessel operating within the existing boundaries and
any future expanded boundaries of the Thunder Bay National Marine
Sanctuary and Underwater Preserve from taking up or discharging ballast
water to allow for safe and efficient vessel operation if the uptake or
discharge meets all Federal and State ballast water management
requirements that would apply if the area were not a marine sanctuary.
SEC. 611. <<NOTE: District of Columbia.>> PARKING FACILITIES.
(a) Allocation and Assignment.--
(1) <<NOTE: Coordination.>> In general.--Subject to the
requirements of this section, the Administrator of General
Services, in coordination with the Commandant of the Coast
Guard, shall allocate and assign the spaces in parking
facilities at the Department of Homeland Security St. Elizabeths
Campus to allow any member
[[Page 128 STAT. 3065]]
or employee of the Coast Guard, who is assigned to the Campus,
to use such spaces.
(2) <<NOTE: Deadlines.>> Timing.--In carrying out paragraph
(1), and in addition to the parking spaces allocated and
assigned to Coast Guard members and employees in fiscal year
2014, the Administrator shall allocate and assign not less
than--
(A) 300 parking spaces not later than September 30,
2015;
(B) 700 parking spaces not later than September 30,
2016; and
(C) 1,042 parking spaces not later than September
30, 2017.
(b) Transportation Management Report.--Not later than 1 year after
the date of the enactment of this Act, and each fiscal year thereafter
in which spaces are allocated and assigned under subsection (a)(2), the
Administrator shall provide to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and
Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure of the House of Representatives a report on--
(1) the impact of assigning and allocating parking spaces
under subsection (a) on the congestion of roads connecting the
St. Elizabeths Campus to the portions of Suitland Parkway and I-
295 located in the Anacostia section of the District of
Columbia; and
(2) progress made toward completion of essential
transportation improvements identified in the Transportation
Management Program for the St. Elizabeths Campus.
(c) Reallocation.--Notwithstanding subsection (a), the Administrator
may revise the allocation and assignment of spaces to members and
employees of the Coast Guard made under subsection (a) as necessary to
accommodate employees of the Department of Homeland Security, other than
the Coast Guard, when such employees are assigned to the St. Elizabeths
Campus.
Approved December 18, 2014.
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY--S. 2444 (H.R. 5769):
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CONGRESSIONAL RECORD, Vol. 160 (2014):
Dec. 10, considered and passed Senate and House.
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