Dan Webster: “Applicants also report a lack of communication and transparency from MARAD on where the process stands.”

This reminds of us the vital importance of the Coast Guard in protecting our nation's waterways.

I look forward to hearing from you on what you are doing to address those challenges.

Today, the subcommittee will receive testimony from the Coast Guard's icebreaking recapitalization efforts and the ability of the Service to meet its icebreaking and polar region responsibilities.

However, this committee is well aware also of the aging infrastructure and workforce shortages and insufficient budget that has operationally constrained the Coast Guard for--more than just this year--many years.