WASHINGTON – Two key proposals authored by U.S. Senator Roger Wicker, R-Miss., were approved today by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee as part of the “Coast Guard Reauthorization” bill. Wicker is a senior member of the Committee, which oversees the Coast Guard. Specifically, one of the provisions successfully included by Wicker would authorize the Coast Guard to pursue multiyear contract authority to acquire three additional National Security Cutters. These particular ships are built in Pascagoula, Miss.

“The Coast Guard is charged with protecting America’s coastline, waterways, and ports, as well as executing security operations around the world,” Wicker said. “They need cutting-edge technologies and modern ships to carry out that mission successfully. I am pleased that this reauthorization bill includes my proposal to provide the Coast Guard with the necessary authority to begin the process of obtaining three new Cutters, while making wise use of taxpayer dollars.”

Wicker also added a proposal to create a uniform standard for ballast water and other vessel discharges. Currently, vessel operators are required to meet standards from two federal agencies and 25 states.