Us Congress House Bill HB5842

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/29/23
• Refer: 9/29/23
• Refer: 10/2/23

Caption

Coast Guard Sustained Funding Act of 2023

Impact

If passed, HB 5842 will solidify the funding framework for the Coast Guard, safeguarding the financial support for its personnel during lapses in appropriations. This change will affirm the federal commitment to maintaining the operational readiness of the Coast Guard and ensuring that individuals serving in capacities critical to national security and public safety are compensated on time. It recognizes the importance of the Coast Guard's role and aims to protect its members against the repercussions of political delays in budget approvals.

Summary

House Bill 5842, titled the 'Coast Guard Sustained Funding Act of 2023', serves to amend title 14 of the United States Code to ensure that necessary appropriations are made for Coast Guard pay in the event that an appropriations act expires before the enactment of a new appropriations act. The bill emphasizes the provision of pay and allowances not only to military members of the Coast Guard, including reserves, but also to qualified civilian and contract employees serving during periods of funding lapse. This legislative initiative aims to eliminate the uncertainty around pay during government shutdowns or funding lapses.

Contention

Discussions surrounding HB 5842 may reflect broader debates about government funding priorities, particularly during periods of budget negotiations or impasses. Some lawmakers may express concerns about the implications this could have on fiscal responsibility or may advocate for similar protections for other branches of the military or federal workers. The bill could lead to discussions on how essential services like those provided by the Coast Guard are managed financially within the broader federal budget framework, highlighting the need for consistent funding mechanisms to support government operations.