HR-4375 : Still Just a Bill
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The Great Lakes Icebreaker Act of 2025, H.R. 4375, proposes several measures to enhance icebreaking capabilities and oversight in the Great Lakes. Key provisions include:
- New Icebreaker Strategy: Directs the Commandant of the Coast Guard to submit a strategy within 90 days of enactment. This strategy must detail the expedited design and construction of a new Great Lakes icebreaker at least as capable as the Coast Guard cutter Mackinaw (WLBB-30), including cost estimates and a delivery timeline.
- Icebreaking Pilot Program: Establishes a five-ice-season pilot program to assess the Coast Guard's existing Great Lakes icebreaking fleet's ability to keep tier one and tier two waterways open 95% of the time. The Commandant is required to report on the program's results and new performance measures after each season.
- Reporting Requirement Modifications: Amends existing legislation to update requirements for public reports and Congressional briefings. These changes primarily relate to publishing the cost for the Coast Guard to meet proposed icebreaking standards and providing briefings on the cost of meeting specific icebreaking requirements in fiscal years 2024, 2025, and 2026.