Coast Guard funding bill sets budget, ships, and abuse prevention rules

What does this do?

S. 524, the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2025, sets funding and policy for the Coast Guard for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, covering operations, benefits, ship and equipment purchases, property management, and tsunami safety planning. It expands family leave, housing, mental health support, and sexual assault/harassment prevention measures, and addresses opioid response, drug interdiction, drone maritime systems, and vessel/port safety. It also updates NOAA's officer corps and vessel fleet rules and renews the South Pacific Tuna Treaty.

Who does it affect?

Coast Guard and NOAA personnel, their families, and Coast Guard Academy cadets are directly affected. Commercial mariners, fishing vessel operators, and coastal, Great Lakes, and Alaska communities that rely on Coast Guard services are also affected.

Why does it matter?

The bill changes how the Coast Guard acquires ships and equipment, manages misconduct cases, and coordinates with Canada on Great Lakes shipping, altering agency operations and oversight.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• $11.3 billion authorized for fy2025
• $11.9 billion authorized for fy2026
• plus funds for pay and benefits