S.802 - Pay Our Coast Guard Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.802, the "Pay Our Coast Guard Act," aims to ensure that Coast Guard personnel, including military, civilian, and contract employees, continue to receive pay and benefits during lapses in appropriations. This bill amends Title 14 of the United States Code to provide necessary funding during periods when a general appropriation bill for the Coast Guard has not been enacted, but the Department of Defense has received its funding. The bill establishes a mechanism for continued payment of salaries, allowances, death gratuities, and other benefits during funding gaps.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill is to provide financial security and stability for Coast Guard personnel and their families during government funding lapses. It ensures that essential services provided by the Coast Guard are not disrupted due to budgetary delays. This will prevent scenarios where Coast Guard members are forced to work without pay, which could negatively impact morale and operational readiness.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures timely payment of salaries and benefits to Coast Guard personnel during funding lapses.
- Maintains morale and operational readiness within the Coast Guard.
- Provides financial security for Coast Guard families during uncertain budgetary times.
- Prevents disruption of essential Coast Guard services.
- Guarantees death gratuities and funeral travel reimbursements are paid even during funding lapses.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could potentially reduce the incentive for Congress to pass timely appropriations bills for the Coast Guard, as a safety net is already in place.
- May create a perception of unequal treatment if other government agencies do not have similar protections during funding lapses.
- The definition of 'qualified civilian employee' and 'qualified contract employee' relies on the Commandant's determination, which could lead to inconsistent application.
- The bill's reliance on Department of Defense appropriations could create a dependency on DoD funding priorities.
- Potential for increased government spending if not managed effectively.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's Article I, Section 8, which grants Congress the power to provide for the common defense and general welfare of the United States. By ensuring the Coast Guard is funded, the bill supports national security and the well-being of its members. The bill also aligns with the principle of equitable treatment under the law, as it seeks to provide Coast Guard members with similar pay and benefits as other members of the Armed Forces.
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).