To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the membership of the Commandant of the Coast Guard on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

6/15/2024, 8:05 AM
Congress
118

Number
HR - 8762

Introduced on
2024-06-14

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Cosponsors
+5

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

This bill adds the Commandant of the Coast Guard as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Commandant must keep the department under which the Coast Guard is operating (either the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of the Navy) fully informed of (1) military advice rendered by members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff on matters affecting the department, and (2) significant military operations affecting the duties and responsibilities of such departments. 

Bill 118 hr 8762, also known as the "Coast Guard Joint Chiefs of Staff Enhancement Act," aims to amend title 10 of the United States Code to include the Commandant of the Coast Guard as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Currently, the Joint Chiefs of Staff consists of the heads of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, but does not include the Commandant of the Coast Guard.

The bill seeks to rectify this omission by recognizing the importance of the Coast Guard in national defense and security efforts. By including the Commandant of the Coast Guard as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the bill aims to ensure that the unique capabilities and expertise of the Coast Guard are fully represented in high-level military decision-making.

Supporters of the bill argue that the Coast Guard plays a crucial role in protecting the nation's maritime interests, enforcing laws at sea, and responding to emergencies and disasters. By giving the Commandant a seat on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the bill would provide the Coast Guard with a stronger voice in shaping military policy and strategy. Opponents of the bill may argue that adding another member to the Joint Chiefs of Staff could complicate decision-making processes or dilute the focus of the existing members. However, proponents believe that the benefits of including the Commandant of the Coast Guard outweigh any potential drawbacks. Overall, the "Coast Guard Joint Chiefs of Staff Enhancement Act" seeks to enhance the representation of the Coast Guard within the highest levels of the military hierarchy, recognizing the important role that the Coast Guard plays in protecting the nation's security and interests.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the membership of the Commandant of the Coast Guard on the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary2/11/2025

This bill adds the Commandant of the Coast Guard as a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The Commandant must keep the department under which the Coast Guard is operating (either the Department of Homeland Security or the Department of the Navy) ...


Latest Action6/14/2024
Referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisd...