S.1190 - Coast Guard Improvement Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The Coast Guard Improvement Act of 2025 (S.1190) aims to establish a Secretary of the Coast Guard, appointed by the President with Senate approval, to oversee the Coast Guard's operations. This involves amending the Homeland Security Act of 2002 and Titles 10 and 14 of the United States Code to reflect this new position and its associated responsibilities. The bill also mandates a reorganization plan from the Secretary of Homeland Security to ensure a smooth transition and alignment of responsibilities.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to elevate the leadership and administrative structure of the Coast Guard by creating a dedicated Secretary position. This could lead to greater autonomy and potentially more effective management of the Coast Guard's diverse responsibilities. The reorganization plan would further define the roles and responsibilities within the Department of Homeland Security and the Coast Guard.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced Leadership: A dedicated Secretary could provide more focused leadership and advocacy for the Coast Guard.
- Improved Efficiency: Streamlining the chain of command could lead to quicker decision-making and more efficient operations.
- Increased Autonomy: The Coast Guard could have a stronger voice within the Department of Homeland Security.
- Better Coordination: The reorganization plan aims to improve coordination between the Coast Guard and other agencies.
- Greater Accountability: A designated Secretary could be held more directly accountable for the Coast Guard's performance.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Bureaucracy: Creating a new Secretary position could add another layer of bureaucracy.
- Transition Challenges: Reorganization can be disruptive and may temporarily hinder operations.
- Increased Costs: Establishing a new office and staff could increase administrative costs.
- Possible Power Struggles: The new Secretary's role might overlap with existing positions, leading to conflicts.
- Uncertainty During Transition: The reorganization plan may create uncertainty among Coast Guard personnel.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the US Constitution, particularly Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide and maintain a Navy (which can be interpreted to include the Coast Guard). The appointment of the Secretary of the Coast Guard by the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, follows the appointment process outlined in Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).