Summary: (This measure has not been amended since it was amended by the House on December 5, 2012. The summary of that version is repeated here.) Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 - Title I: Authorization - (Sec. 101) Authorizes FY2013-FY2014 appropriations for the Coast Guard for: (1) operation and maintenance; (2) acquisition, construction, rebuilding, and improvement of navigation aids, shore and offshore facilities, vessels, aircraft, and related equipment; (3) the Coast Guard Reserve program; (4) environmental compliance and restoration of vessels, aircraft, and facilities; (5) the Commandant of the Coast Guard for research, development, test, and evaluation of technologies, materials, and human factors directly related to improving the performance of the Coast Guard's mission in search and rescue, aids to navigation, marine safety, marine environmental protection, enforcement of laws and treaties, ice operations, oceanographic research, and defense readiness; and (6) alteration or removal of bridges over U.S. navigable waters, including for personnel and administrative costs of the Alteration of Bridges Program. Designates amounts from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund to carry out specified provisions of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. (Sec. 102) Authorizes, for each such fiscal year, end-of-year strength for active duty personnel of 47,000 and specified average military training student loads. Title II: Coast Guard - (Sec. 201) Establishes a class E felony and a civil penalty for knowingly and willingly operating a device with the intention of interfering with the broadcast or reception of a radio, microwave, or other signal (including a global positioning system) transmitted, retransmitted, or augmented by the Coast Guard for the purpose of maritime safety. (Sec. 202) Allocates and vests in the Coast Guard and the department in which the Coast Guard is operating all authority (including programmatic budget authority) for the operation and maintenance of Coast Guard vessels, aircraft, systems, aides to navigation, infrastructure, and other assets or facilities. (Sec. 203) Limits to $100,000 per fiscal year the amount the Commandant is authorized to use for the activities of traveling contract teams, maritime authority liaison teams of foreign governments making reciprocal visits to Coast Guard units, and related seminars, conferences, publication distributions, and personnel expenses. (Sec. 204) Entitles foreign nationals permitted to receive instruction at the Coast Guard Academy to the same emoluments (in addition to pay and allowances) as other appointed cadets. (Sec. 205) Requires the Commandant to direct the Superintendent of the Coast Guard Academy to: (1) prescribe a policy on sexual harassment and sexual violence for cadets and other Academy personnel; (2) conduct an annual assessment to determine the effectiveness of such policies, training, and procedures; and (3) report annually, along with a prevention and response plan, on the number of such incidents. Directs the Commandant to transmit such reports to Congress, together with comments by the Commandant. (Sec. 206) Specifies that an original appointment of a permanent commissioned officer refers to that member's most recent appointment that is neither a promotion nor a demotion. (Sec. 207) Modifies the oath for members of a selection board. (Sec. 208) Requires the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating (the Secretary) to convene a special selection board if an administrative error results in an officer or former officer: (1) not being considered for selection for promotion by a selection board, or (2) not being placed on an all-fully-qualified-officers list. Authorizes the Secretary to also convene such a special selection board for an officer or former officer considered but not selected for promotion if the selection board: (1) acted contrary to law in a matter material to the decision or with the involvement of material factual or administrative error, or (2) did not have material information before it for consideration. Authorizes judicial review of: (1) a decision of the Secretary not to convene a special selection board, and (2) an action of a special selection board. (Sec. 209) Prohibits the Secretary from authorizing certain involuntary administrative separations for Coast Guard members based on medical conditions considered by the Physical Evaluation Board during an evaluation resulting in the individual being determined fit for duty. Authorizes the Secretary to require reevaluations if the Secretary determines there is reason to believe a medical condition renders the individual unsuitable for continued duty. Permits the retirement or separation for physical disability of an individual determined to be unfit based on such a reevaluation. (Sec. 210) Directs the Secretary to report biennially to Congress on the status of all major acquisition programs with a life-cycle cost estimate of at least $300 million. Requires such report to include: (1) any mission hour gaps and program changes; (2) an integration plan for each new asset, including shore-based infrastructure and human resource needs; (3) the operational lifespan and life-cycle cost of each legacy asset including anticipated resource gaps; (4) the accounting for legacy asset costs; (5) an annual performance comparison of new assets to legacy assets; (6) the next fiscal year's anticipated acquisitions workload, acquisition workforce assignments, and understaffed positions; (7) an identification of certified cutters not maintained in class; and (8) other specified information. (Sec. 211) Authorizes the Commandant to enter into contracts or orders for materials, storage, and planning in advance of a contract or order for construction of a vessel. Permits the Commandant to give priority to persons who manufacture materials, parts, and components in the United States. (Sec. 212) Prohibits the Secretary from, subject to congressional reporting requirements, expending more than $1.5 million each fiscal year from amounts available for operating expenses for minor construction and improvement projects at any location. Directs the Secretary to report annually to Congress on each such project expending over $500,000. (Sec. 213) Directs the Commandant, concurrent with the President's budget submission to Congress each year, to submit to Congress a list of unfunded priorities, a capital investment plan including estimated completion costs and projected funding levels for each capital asset for which appropriations are proposed, and a prioritized list of projects eligible for environmental compliance and restoration funding. (Sec. 214) Sets forth guidelines for publicly disclosing records and investigation reports concerning aircraft accidents under the Commandant's jurisdiction. Prohibits: (1) an official responsible for, or conducting, a safety investigation from making such disclosures; and (2) accident investigators' opinions set forth in such reports from being considered in civil and criminal proceedings or as an admission of liability. (Sec. 215) Extends eligibility for enrollment in the Coast Guard Auxiliary to U.S. nationals and aliens lawfully admitted for permanent residence. (Sec. 216) Repeals provisions concerning: (1) District Ombudsmen, (2) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) aids to air navigation, (3) floating ocean stations, (4) detail of Coast Guard members to assist foreign governments, (5) the Advisory Committee to the Academy, and (6) history fellowships. (Sec. 217) Makes technical revisions to various Coast Guard duties. Revises authorities relating to a prohibition on the use of lead system integrators and a Comptroller General report on former Coast Guard officials employed by Coast Guard contractors. (Sec. 218) Revises the acquisition workforce expedited hiring authority in the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 to: (1) authorize the Commandant to designate any category of specified acquisition workforce positions as positions for which there is a shortage of candidates or a critical hiring need, and (2) extend such authority to September 30, 2015. (Sec. 219) Renews temporary early retirement authority for certain Coast Guard personnel for FY2013-FY2018. Sets limits on the total number of commissioned officers and enlisted members who may retire pursuant to such authority. (Sec. 220) Directs the Commandant to maintain the schedule and requirements for the total acquisition of 180 boats specified in the approved program of record for the Response Boat-Medium acquisition program in effect on June 1, 2012, until the Commandant submits to Congress the documentation required to justify the acquisition of less than 180 boats. (Sec. 221) Authorizes the Secretary, in each fiscal year and after submitting specified certifications to Congress, to enter into a multiyear contract for the procurement of National Security Cutters and associated government-furnished equipment. Requires the Secretary consider specified criteria to determine whether such a contract results in substantial savings. Prohibits the Commandant from certifying a sixth National Security Cutter as Ready for Operations before the Commandant has: (1) submitted a program execution plan to Congress specifying how the first three National Security Cutters will achieve certain goals following the completion of the Structural Enhancement Drydock Availability of the first two National Security Cutters and detailing increased aerial support coverage, and (2) awarded a design and construction contract for the Offshore Patrol Cutter. (Sec. 222) Directs the Secretary to conduct a business-case analysis for reactivating and extending the service life of the Polar Sea until at least September 30, 2022, to maintain U.S. polar icebreaking capabilities and fulfill the Coast Guard's high-latitude mission needs during the recapitalization of the polar class icebreaker fleet. Prohibits the removal of any part of the Polar Sea until the Secretary submits such analysis to Congress. Requires the Secretary, if it is cost-effective to reactive the Polar Sea compared with other options for providing icebreaking services, to submit to Congress a service life extension plan including a timetable for such reactivation. Authorizes the Commandant, if the Secretary determines that reactivation is not cost-effective, to decommission the Polar Sea. Directs the Commandant, after the Secretary makes such determination, to submit to Congress a bridging strategy for maintaining polar icebreaking services until at least September 30, 2022. Prohibits the Commandant, until September 30, 2022, except with respect to an authorized decommissioning of the Polar Sea, from: (1) transferring, relinquishing ownership, dismantling, or recycling the Polar Sea or Polar Star; (2) changing the current homeport of such vessels; or (3) expending funds to place either vessel in inactive status or taking other specified decommissioning measures. Title III: Shipping and Navigation - (Sec. 301) Amends federal shipping laws that require a determination by the Administrator of the Maritime Administration regarding the non-availability of qualified U.S. flag capacity to meet national defense requirements before the head of an agency responsible for the administration of navigation or vessel-inspection laws is authorized on its own initiative to waive compliance with such laws when it considers it necessary in the interest of national defense. Requires the Administrator, in making such determinations, to: (1) identify any actions that could be taken to enable such flag capacity to meet the national defense requirements, (2) provide notice of each determination to the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the agency for which the determination is made, and (3) publish each determination on DOT's Internet website. Directs the head of each such agency to notify Congress of any waiver requests or issuances. Requires the notification of the issuance of a waiver to include the reasons why: (1) the waiver is necessary, and (2) specified actions are not feasible. (Sec. 302) Shields an entity operating a nonfederal vessel traffic information or advisory service pursuant to a written agreement with the Coast Guard, and any pilot acting on behalf of such entity, from liability for damages caused by or related to information, advice, or communication assistance unless the acts or omissions constitute gross negligence or willful misconduct. (Sec. 303) Directs the Commandant to report to Congress on the carriage of survival craft that ensures no part of an individual is immersed in water. (Sec. 304) Requires, before the Secretary may delegate to a foreign classification society the authority to conduct examinations and approve plans for issuing certificates of inspection, compliance, and other documents regarding certain vessels, a determination by the Secretary of State that such society does not provide comparable services in or for a state sponsor of terrorism. Requires the revocation of a delegation if the Secretary of State makes such a determination. (Sec. 305) Directs the Secretary to examine at dockside certain uninspected fishing industry vessels at least once every five years (currently, every two years). Revises certification and compliance requirements based on whether certain vessels were built before or after July 1, 2013 (currently, the applicable date is July 1, 2012). (Sec. 306) Authorizes the Secretary to extend for up to one year a medical certificate issued to an individual holding a license, merchant mariner's document, or certificate of registry if the extension is required to eliminate a backlog in processing applications for medical certificates or in response to a national emergency or natural disaster. (Sec. 307) Modifies fishery endorsement eligibility requirements for certain vessels under the American Fisheries Act. (Sec. 308) Authorizes the Secretary to conduct investigations and inspections regarding the documentation of vessels. (Sec. 309) Increases the civil penalty for certain documentation violations from $10,000 to $15,000. Establishes a civil penalty of the greater of $25,000 or twice the vessel's charter rate for certain violations involving mobile offshore drilling units. (Sec. 310) Establishes a U.S. Committee on the Marine Transportation System as a federal interagency coordinating committee to assess the adequacy of the marine transportation system, promote integration with other modes of transportation and uses of the marine environment, and coordinate federal policy recommendations. Requires the Chair of the Coordinating Board of the Committee to rotate annually among the DOT Secretary, the Secretary of Defense (DOD), the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS), and the Secretary of Commerce. Directs the DOT Secretary to appoint an Executive Director. Directs the Committee to report to Congress every five years on: (1) the implementation of actions recommended in the July 2008 National Strategy for the Marine Transportation System, (2) an assessment of marine transportation system conditions and challenges to meeting user demand, and (3) a plan for improving the system and the implementation of actions previously recommended. (Sec. 311) Makes technical revisions with respect to the Secretary's authority to extend the duration of certain licenses, certificates of registry, and merchant mariner documents. (Sec. 312) Expands the definition of "deepwater port" to include certain structures handling oil or natural gas for transportation to or from any state (currently, only to any state). Title IV: Maritime Administration Authorization - Maritime Administration Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2013 - (Sec. 402) Authorizes FY2013 appropriations to the DOT for Maritime Administration programs associated with maintaining national security aspects of the merchant marine. Enumerates specific amounts for: (1) operations of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, (2) state maritime academies, (3) disposal of vessels in the National Defense Reserve Fleet (NDRF), (4) maintenance and preservation of a U.S.-flag merchant marine for national security needs, and (5) the cost of certain loan guarantees under the Federal Credit Reform Act of 1990. (Sec. 403) Authorizes the DOT Secretary to engage in the environmental study and deployment of emerging marine technologies and practices related to the marine transportation system through the use of public vessels under the control of the Maritime Administration or private vessels under U.S. registry and through partnerships and cooperative efforts with academic, public, private, and nongovernmental entities and facilities. Permits such research to include the reduction of air or water emissions or other ship discharges, increases in fuel economy or use of alternative fuels and energy, or controlling aquatic invasive species. (Sec. 404) Expands an authorization to make excess or surplus marine equipment available to maritime academies and nonprofit training institutions to include training institutions that are an instrumentality of a state, the District of Columbia, a territory or possession of the United States, or a unit of local government. Permits fuel to be included in such arrangements. Requires the consent of the Secretary of the Navy to be obtained with respect to any property from NDRF vessels, if such vessels are either Ready Reserve Force vessels or other NDRF vessels determined to be of sufficient value to the Navy to warrant further preservation and retention. (Sec. 405) Expands the DOT's short sea transportation program (currently, a program to mitigate landside congestion) to include the promotion of such transportation. Permits (currently, requires) the development of multistate, state, and regional strategies to encourage the use of short sea transportation for passengers and cargo. (Sec. 406) Limits the placement of vessels acquired by the Maritime Administration in the NDRF to vessels of at least 1,500 gross tons or other vessels the DOT determines appropriate. (Sec. 407) Authorizes all federal entities to transfer vessels to the NDRF without reimbursement subject to the approval of the DOT Secretary and the Secretary of the Navy with respect to Ready Reserve Force vessels and the DOT Secretary with respect to all other vessels. (Sec. 409) Specifies that the mission of the Maritime Administration is to foster, promote, and develop the domestic merchant maritime industry of the United States. (Sec. 410) Amends the Merchant Ship Sales Act of 1946 to require the DOT Secretary to conduct sea trials on NDRF vessels at a frequency considered by the DOT Secretary to be necessary (currently, at least once every 30 months). (Sec. 411) Directs the Administrator of the Maritime Administration to complete the design for a containerized articulated barge identified in the dual-use vessel study carried out by the Administrator and the DOD Secretary that is able to utilize roll-on/roll-off or load-on/load-off technology in marine highway maritime commerce. (Sec. 412) Directs the Administrator of the Maritime Administration to report to Congress on the potential for using container-on-barge transportation in short sea transportation. (Sec. 413) Expresses the sense of Congress that the DOD Secretary should expedite completion of the study of U.S. strategic ports called for in the conference report accompanying the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2012 so that it can be submitted to Congress before July 1, 2013. Directs the Comptroller General to assess such report and conduct a subsequent study of DOD programs and efforts related to the state of strategic ports with respect to DOD's operational and readiness requirements. Defines "strategic port" as a U.S. port designated by the DOD Secretary as a significant transportation hub important to the readiness and cargo throughput capacity of DOD. (Sec. 414) Directs the Comptroller General to report on the training needs of the maritime workforce including an analysis of maritime training requirements imposed by domestic and international regulations and conventions, companies, and government agencies chartering or operating vessels. (Sec. 415) Directs the Comptroller General to assess the source selection procedures and practices used to award the Maritime Administration's NDRF vessel recycling contracts. Title V: Piracy - Piracy Suppression Act of 2012 - (Sec. 502) Directs the DOT Secretary to certify a training curriculum for U.S. mariners on the use of force against pirates including information on Commandant-designated high-risk waters, current threats and patterns of attack, defense tactics, rules for the use of force as self-defense, and procedures to improve crewmember survivability if captured or taken hostage by pirates. (Sec. 503) Requires the DOT Secretary to direct agencies (except DOD), when responsible for the carriage of equipment, materials, or commodities procured, furnished, or financed by the U.S. government, to: (1) provide armed personnel aboard the U.S. vessels transiting such supplies in high-risk waters; and (2) reimburse, subject to the availability of appropriations, the vessel owners or operators for the cost of providing such armed personnel. (Sec. 504) Directs the DOD Secretary to report to Congress on actions taken by the DOD to protect foreign-flagged vessels from acts of piracy on the high seas. Title VI: Marine Debris - Marine Debris Act Amendments of 2012 - (Sec. 602) Renames the Marine Debris Research, Prevention, and Reduction Act as the Marine Debris Act. Defines "marine debris" as any persistent solid material that is manufactured or processed and directly or indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally, disposed of or abandoned into the marine environment or the Great Lakes. (Sec. 604) Replaces the Marine Debris Prevention and Removal Program within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) with a Marine Debris Program to identify, determine sources of, assess, prevent, reduce, and remove marine debris and its adverse impacts on the U.S. economy, the marine environment, and navigation safety. Revises Program components, including by requiring the NOAA to provide national and regional coordination to assist states, Indian tribes, and regional organizations in the identification, determination of sources, assessment, prevention, reduction, and removal of marine debris. Directs the NOAA to develop interagency plans, coordinated with state, tribal, and local governments, for the timely response to severe marine debris events. Defines "severe marine debris event" as atypically large amounts of marine debris caused by a natural disaster, including a tsunami, flood, landslide, hurricane, or other source. Amends the Marine Plastic Pollution Research and Control Act of 1987 to repeal the plastic pollution public education program. (Sec. 606) Replaces provisions of the Marine Debris Program concerning interagency coordination with provisions establishing the Interagency Marine Debris Coordinating Committee. Requires the Committee to submit biennial progress reports. (Sec. 607) Requires the NOAA Administrator to ensure the confidentiality of information submitted into the federal information clearinghouse on marine debris. (Currently, the Administrator is required to ensure the confidentiality of only such information that is submitted by the fishing industry.) (Sec. 609) Directs the NOAA to provide Congress with a determination as to whether the March 2011 Tohoku earthquake and subsequent tsunami and the October 2012 hurricane Sandy each caused a severe marine debris event. Title VII: Miscellaneous - (Sec. 701) Permits certain U.S. purse seine fishing vessels fishing exclusively for highly migratory species in the treaty area under a fishing license issued pursuant to the 1987 Treaty on Fisheries Between the Governments of Certain Pacific Islands States and the Government of the United States of America, or transiting to or from the treaty area exclusively for such purpose, to engage duly licensed foreign citizens to meet the manning requirement (except for the master) through the date such treaty ceases to have effect under specified articles of such treaty, if no U.S. citizen personnel are readily available to fill such vacancy. Expands such authority to vessels operating in and out of Guam (currently, only American Samoa). Modifies related licensing and credential requirements. (Sec. 703) Extends, until December 18, 2014, provisions prohibiting the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or a state with an approved National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act), from requiring an NPDES permit for a covered vessel (a vessel that is less than 79 feet in length or a fishing vessel) for any discharge: (1) of effluent from properly functioning marine engines; (2) of laundry, shower, and galley sink wastes; or (3) that is incidental to the normal operation of a covered vessel. (Sec. 704) Prohibits notice of arrival regulations required under the Security and Accountability For Every Port Act of 2006 for foreign vessels on the Outer Continental Shelf from applying to certain U.S.-owned vessels that are not documented under foreign laws unless such vessels arrive from a foreign port or place. (Sec. 705) Permits the Secretary to issue a certificate of documentation with a fishery endorsement for the vessel Texas Star Casino, except that such endorsement is not valid for any fishery for which a fishery management plan has been approved by the Secretary of Commerce under specified provisions of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act before the enactment of this Act. Exempts the passenger vessel Ranger III from specified tank vessel construction standards during any period it is owned and operated by the National Park Service. (Sec. 706) Deems the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission a government agency for purposes of specified notification requirements of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980. Requires the National Response Center to notify and report to the Commission regarding the Ohio River Basin. (Sec. 707) Deems two numbered vessels to be new vessels if no encumbrances are on record with the Coast Guard at the time of the issuance of the new vessel certificate of documentation for each such vessel. (Sec. 708) Declares that the waters of Mille Lacs Lake, Minnesota, are not subject to U.S. jurisdiction under federal laws addressing the Coast Guard's enforcement duties. (Sec. 709) Directs the DHS Secretary to reform the transportation worker identification credentialing process to require, in total, a maximum of one in-person visit to a designated enrollment center except in extenuating circumstances. (Sec. 710) Directs the Secretary of the Treasury to increase investments in income-producing securities under specified provisions of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 by a specified amount. (Sec. 711) Authorizes the Commandant to establish an Integrated Cross-Border Maritime Law Enforcement Operations Program to coordinate the maritime security operations of the United States and Canada, strengthen border security, and respond to terrorism and border-related violations of law. Provides authority for joint training with Canada and coordination with DHS border security and antiterrorism programs. (Sec. 712) Allows the Secretary (for purposes of reviewing a permit application pursuant to specified provisions of the Rivers and Harbors Appropriation Act of 1899, the Bridge Act of 1906, the Truman-Hobbs Act, or the General Bridge Act of 1946) to: (1) accept voluntary services from bridge owners, and (2) accept and credit to Coast Guard operating expenses any amounts received from such owners. Directs the Secretary to complete determinations on any required approval for issuance of any permits under its jurisdiction related to the construction or alteration of a bridge over the Kill Van Kull (a tidal strait connecting Bayonne, New Jersey, and Staten Island, New York) consistent with Executive Order 13604 from March 22, 2012. (Sec. 713) Permits the Secretary to consider the tonnage measurements for the vessel Aqueos Acadian to be valid until a specified date if the vessel and the use of its space is not changed in a way substantially affecting the tonnage of the vessel. (Sec. 714) Directs the Commandant to submit to Congress an assessment of the impact of additional regulatory requirements imposed on passenger vessels operating on the Ringo Cocke Canal in the state of Louisiana as a result of the Coast Guard's navigability determination dated March 25, 2010. Prohibits the Commandant, before a specified period after such assessment is submitted, from enforcing such regulatory requirements. (Sec. 715) Requires the Commandant to submit to Congress the Coast Guard's National Housing Assessment and any related analysis. (Sec. 716) Directs the Secretary to submit to Congress an assessment of the need for additional Coast Guard prevention and response capability in the high-latitude regions, including all Coast Guard mission areas, search and rescue, marine pollution response and prevention, fisheries enforcement, and maritime commerce. (Sec. 717) Directs the Commandant to determine if any improvements are necessary to designate existing ice-free facilities or infrastructure in the Central Bering Sea as a fully functional, year-round Potential Place of Refuge. (Sec. 718) Requires the Commandant to submit to Congress an assessment of the Coast Guard National Maritime Center's merchant mariner medical evaluation program and alternatives to such program. (Sec. 719) Directs the Secretary to provide Congress an assessment of: (1) the loss of U.S. shipyard jobs and industrial base expertise as a result of rebuild, conversion, and double-hull work on U.S.-flag vessels eligible to engage in the coastwise trade being performed in foreign shipyards; (2) enforcement of the Coast Guard's foreign rebuild determination regulations; and (3) recommendations for improving transparency in the Coast Guard's foreign rebuild determination process. (Sec. 720) Requires the Commandant to submit to Congress an assessment of factors under the authority of the Coast Guard that impact the ability of U.S.-documented vessels to effectively compete in international transportation markets. (Sec. 721) Directs the Commandant to submit to Congress a study on the feasibility of establishing a deepwater seaport in the Arctic to protect and advance strategic U.S. interests. (Sec. 722) Requires the Commandant to submit to Congress an assessment of the increased vessel traffic in the Salish Sea (including Puget Sound, the Strait of Georgia, Haro Strait, Rosario Strait, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca), that may occur from the transport of Canadian oil sands oil. Directs the Commandant, in conducting such assessment, to consult with the state of Washington, affected tribal governments, vessel operators, oil sands producers, and spill response experts.

measure amended amended house december summary version repeated coast_guard maritime transportation act title authorization sec authorizes fy2013 fy2014 appropriations coast_guard operation maintenance acquisition construction rebuilding improvement navigation aids shore offshore facilities vessels aircraft related equipment coast_guard_reserve program environmental compliance restoration vessels aircraft facilities commandant coast guard research development test evaluation technologies materials human factors directly related improving performance coast_guard mission search rescue aids navigation marine safety marine environmental protection enforcement laws treaties ice operations oceanographic research defense readiness alteration removal bridges navigable waters including personnel administrative costs designates amounts oil_spill_liability_trust_fund carry specified provisions oil pollution act sec authorizes fiscal year end year strength active duty personnel specified average military training student loads title coast guard sec establishes class felony civil penalty knowingly operating device intention interfering broadcast reception radio signal including global positioning system transmitted retransmitted augmented coast_guard purpose maritime safety sec allocates vests coast_guard department coast_guard operating authority including programmatic budget authority operation maintenance coast_guard vessels aircraft systems aides navigation infrastructure assets facilities sec limits fiscal year commandant authorized use activities traveling contract teams maritime authority liaison teams foreign governments making reciprocal visits coast_guard units related seminars conferences publication distributions personnel expenses sec entitles foreign nationals permitted receive instruction coast_guard_academy addition pay allowances appointed cadets sec requires commandant direct superintendent coast_guard_academy prescribe policy sexual harassment sexual violence cadets academy personnel conduct annual assessment determine effectiveness policies training procedures report annually prevention response plan number incidents directs commandant transmit reports congress comments commandant sec specifies original appointment permanent commissioned officer refers member recent appointment promotion demotion sec modifies oath members selection board sec requires secretary department coast_guard operating secretary convene special selection board administrative error results officer officer considered selection promotion selection board placed fully qualified officers list authorizes secretary convene special selection board officer officer considered selected promotion selection board acted contrary law matter material decision involvement material factual administrative error material information consideration authorizes judicial review decision secretary convene special selection board action special selection board sec prohibits secretary authorizing certain involuntary administrative separations coast_guard members based medical conditions considered physical_evaluation_board evaluation resulting individual determined fit duty authorizes secretary require secretary determines reason believe medical condition renders individual unsuitable continued duty permits retirement separation physical disability individual determined unfit based reevaluation sec directs secretary report biennially congress status major acquisition programs life cycle cost estimate million requires report include mission hour gaps program changes integration plan new asset including shore based infrastructure human resource needs operational lifespan life cycle cost legacy asset including anticipated resource gaps accounting legacy asset costs annual performance comparison new assets legacy assets fiscal year anticipated acquisitions workload acquisition workforce assignments positions identification certified cutters maintained class specified information sec authorizes commandant enter contracts orders materials storage planning advance contract order construction vessel permits commandant priority persons manufacture materials parts components united_states sec prohibits secretary subject congressional reporting requirements expending million fiscal year amounts available operating expenses minor construction improvement projects location directs secretary report annually congress project expending sec directs commandant concurrent president budget submission congress year submit congress list unfunded priorities capital investment plan including estimated completion costs projected funding levels capital asset appropriations proposed prioritized list projects eligible environmental compliance restoration funding sec sets forth guidelines publicly disclosing records investigation reports concerning aircraft accidents commandant jurisdiction prohibits official responsible conducting safety investigation making disclosures accident investigators opinions set forth reports considered civil criminal proceedings admission liability sec extends eligibility enrollment coast guard auxiliary nationals aliens lawfully admitted permanent residence sec repeals provisions concerning district federal_aviation_administration faa aids air navigation floating ocean stations detail coast_guard members assist foreign governments advisory_committee academy history fellowships sec makes technical revisions coast_guard duties revises authorities relating prohibition use lead system comptroller_general report coast_guard officials employed coast_guard contractors sec revises acquisition workforce expedited hiring authority coast_guard_authorization_act authorize commandant designate category specified acquisition workforce positions positions shortage candidates critical hiring need extend authority september sec renews temporary early retirement authority certain coast_guard personnel fy2013-fy2018 sets limits total number commissioned officers enlisted members retire pursuant authority sec directs commandant maintain schedule requirements total acquisition boats specified approved program record response boat medium acquisition program effect june commandant submits congress documentation required justify acquisition boats sec authorizes secretary fiscal year submitting specified certifications congress enter multiyear contract procurement associated government furnished equipment requires secretary consider specified criteria determine contract results substantial savings prohibits commandant certifying sixth national_security_cutter ready operations commandant submitted program execution plan congress specifying achieve certain goals following completion detailing increased aerial support coverage awarded design construction contract sec directs secretary conduct business case analysis extending service life polar_sea september maintain polar icebreaking capabilities fulfill coast_guard high latitude mission needs recapitalization polar class icebreaker fleet prohibits removal polar_sea secretary submits analysis congress requires secretary cost effective reactive polar_sea compared options providing icebreaking services submit congress service life extension plan including timetable reactivation authorizes commandant secretary determines reactivation cost effective decommission polar_sea directs commandant secretary makes determination submit congress bridging strategy maintaining polar icebreaking services september prohibits commandant september respect authorized decommissioning polar_sea transferring relinquishing ownership dismantling recycling polar_sea changing current vessels expending funds place vessel inactive status taking specified decommissioning measures title iii shipping amends federal shipping laws require determination administrator maritime_administration non availability qualified flag capacity meet national defense requirements head agency responsible administration navigation vessel inspection laws authorized initiative waive compliance laws considers necessary interest national defense requires administrator making determinations identify actions taken enable flag capacity meet national defense requirements provide notice determination department_of_transportation dot agency determination publish determination dot internet website directs head agency notify congress waiver requests issuances requires notification issuance waiver include reasons waiver necessary specified actions feasible sec shields entity operating nonfederal vessel traffic information advisory service pursuant written agreement coast_guard pilot acting behalf entity liability damages caused related information advice communication assistance acts omissions constitute gross negligence willful misconduct sec directs commandant report congress carriage survival craft ensures individual water sec requires secretary delegate foreign classification society authority conduct examinations approve plans issuing certificates inspection compliance documents certain vessels determination secretary state society provide comparable services state sponsor terrorism requires revocation delegation secretary state makes determination sec directs secretary examine certain uninspected fishing industry vessels years currently years revises certification compliance requirements based certain vessels built july currently applicable date july sec authorizes secretary extend year medical certificate issued individual holding license merchant mariner document certificate registry extension required eliminate backlog processing applications medical certificates response national emergency natural disaster sec modifies fishery endorsement eligibility requirements certain vessels american fisheries act sec authorizes secretary conduct investigations inspections documentation vessels sec increases civil penalty certain documentation violations establishes civil penalty greater twice vessel charter rate certain violations involving mobile offshore drilling units sec establishes federal interagency coordinating committee assess adequacy marine transportation system promote integration modes transportation uses marine environment coordinate federal policy recommendations requires chair annually dot secretary secretary defense dod secretary homeland_security dhs secretary commerce directs dot secretary appoint executive director directs committee report congress years implementation actions recommended july national strategy assessment marine transportation system conditions challenges meeting user demand plan improving system implementation actions previously recommended sec makes technical revisions respect secretary authority extend duration certain licenses certificates registry merchant mariner documents sec expands definition deepwater port include certain structures handling oil natural gas transportation state currently state title maritime administration authorization maritime administration authorization act fiscal year sec authorizes fy2013 appropriations dot maritime_administration programs associated maintaining national security aspects merchant marine enumerates specific amounts operations merchant marine_academy state maritime academies disposal vessels national_defense_reserve_fleet maintenance preservation merchant marine national security needs cost certain loan guarantees sec authorizes dot secretary engage environmental study deployment emerging marine technologies practices related marine transportation system use public vessels control maritime_administration private vessels registry partnerships cooperative efforts academic public private nongovernmental entities facilities permits research include reduction air water emissions ship discharges increases fuel economy use alternative fuels energy controlling aquatic invasive species sec expands authorization excess surplus marine equipment available maritime academies nonprofit training institutions include training institutions instrumentality state district_of_columbia territory possession united_states unit local government permits fuel included arrangements requires consent secretary navy obtained respect property vessels vessels vessels vessels determined sufficient value navy warrant preservation retention sec expands dot short sea transportation program currently program mitigate congestion include promotion transportation permits currently requires development multistate state regional strategies encourage use short sea transportation passengers cargo sec limits placement vessels acquired maritime_administration vessels gross tons vessels dot determines appropriate sec authorizes federal entities transfer vessels reimbursement subject approval dot secretary secretary navy respect vessels dot secretary respect vessels sec specifies mission maritime_administration foster promote develop domestic merchant maritime industry united_states sec amends merchant ship sales act require dot secretary conduct sea trials vessels frequency considered dot secretary necessary currently months sec directs administrator maritime_administration complete design barge identified dual use vessel study carried administrator dod secretary able utilize roll roll load load technology marine highway maritime commerce sec directs administrator maritime_administration report congress potential container barge transportation short sea transportation sec expresses sense congress dod secretary expedite completion study strategic ports called conference report accompanying national_defense_authorization_act fiscal year submitted congress july directs comptroller general assess report conduct subsequent study dod programs efforts related state strategic ports respect dod operational readiness requirements defines strategic port port designated dod secretary significant transportation hub important readiness cargo throughput capacity dod sec directs comptroller general report training needs maritime workforce including analysis maritime training requirements imposed domestic international regulations conventions companies government agencies chartering operating vessels sec directs comptroller general assess source selection procedures practices award maritime_administration vessel recycling contracts title piracy piracy suppression act sec directs dot secretary certify training curriculum mariners use force including information commandant designated high risk waters current threats patterns attack defense tactics rules use force self defense procedures improve crewmember survivability captured taken hostage sec requires dot secretary direct agencies dod responsible carriage equipment materials commodities procured furnished financed government provide armed personnel aboard vessels transiting supplies high risk waters reimburse subject availability appropriations vessel owners operators cost providing armed personnel sec directs dod secretary report congress actions taken dod protect foreign flagged vessels acts piracy high seas title debris act amendments sec renames reduction act marine debris act defines marine debris persistent solid material manufactured processed directly indirectly intentionally disposed abandoned marine environment great lakes sec replaces marine debris prevention removal program national_oceanic_and_atmospheric_administration noaa marine debris program identify determine sources assess prevent reduce remove marine debris adverse impacts economy marine environment navigation safety revises program components including requiring noaa provide national regional coordination assist states indian tribes regional organizations identification determination sources assessment prevention reduction removal marine debris directs noaa develop interagency plans coordinated state tribal local governments timely response severe marine debris events defines severe marine debris event large amounts marine debris caused natural disaster including tsunami flood hurricane source amends control act repeal plastic pollution public education program sec replaces provisions concerning interagency coordination provisions establishing interagency marine debris coordinating committee requires committee submit biennial progress reports sec requires noaa administrator ensure confidentiality information submitted federal information clearinghouse marine debris currently administrator required ensure confidentiality information submitted fishing industry sec directs noaa provide congress determination march earthquake subsequent tsunami october hurricane sandy caused severe marine debris event title vii miscellaneous sec permits certain purse seine fishing vessels fishing exclusively highly migratory species treaty area fishing license issued pursuant treaty fisheries government united_states_of_america transiting treaty area exclusively purpose engage duly licensed foreign citizens meet manning requirement master date treaty ceases effect specified articles treaty citizen personnel readily available fill vacancy expands authority vessels operating guam currently american_samoa modifies related licensing credential requirements sec extends december provisions prohibiting environmental_protection_agency epa state approved national_pollutant_discharge_elimination_system npdes permit program federal_water_pollution_control_act commonly known clean water act requiring npdes permit covered vessel vessel feet length fishing vessel discharge effluent properly functioning marine engines laundry shower galley sink wastes incidental normal operation covered vessel sec prohibits notice arrival regulations required security foreign vessels outer_continental_shelf applying certain vessels documented foreign laws vessels arrive foreign port place sec permits secretary issue certificate documentation fishery endorsement vessel endorsement valid fishery fishery management plan approved secretary commerce specified provisions magnuson stevens fishery conservation management act enactment act exempts passenger vessel specified tank vessel construction standards period owned operated national_park_service sec deems government agency purposes specified notification requirements requires national_response_center notify report commission sec deems numbered vessels new vessels encumbrances record coast_guard time issuance new vessel certificate documentation vessel sec declares waters minnesota subject jurisdiction federal laws addressing coast_guard enforcement duties sec directs dhs secretary reform transportation worker identification credentialing process require total maximum person visit designated enrollment center extenuating circumstances sec directs secretary treasury increase investments income producing securities specified provisions oil pollution act specified sec authorizes commandant establish coordinate maritime security operations united_states canada strengthen border security respond terrorism border related violations law provides authority joint training canada coordination dhs border security antiterrorism programs sec allows secretary purposes reviewing permit application pursuant specified provisions appropriation act bridge act truman hobbs act general bridge act accept voluntary services bridge owners accept credit coast_guard operating expenses amounts received owners directs secretary complete determinations required approval issuance permits jurisdiction related construction alteration bridge tidal strait connecting new_jersey staten_island new_york consistent executive order march sec permits secretary consider tonnage measurements vessel valid specified date vessel use space changed way substantially affecting tonnage vessel sec directs commandant submit congress assessment impact additional regulatory requirements imposed passenger vessels operating state louisiana result coast_guard determination dated march prohibits commandant specified period assessment submitted enforcing regulatory requirements sec requires commandant submit related analysis sec directs secretary submit congress assessment need additional coast_guard prevention response capability high latitude regions including coast_guard mission areas search rescue marine pollution response prevention fisheries enforcement maritime commerce sec directs commandant determine improvements necessary designate existing ice free facilities infrastructure fully functional year round sec requires commandant submit congress assessment merchant mariner medical evaluation program alternatives program sec directs secretary provide congress assessment loss shipyard jobs industrial base expertise result rebuild conversion double hull work vessels eligible engage coastwise trade performed foreign shipyards enforcement coast_guard foreign rebuild determination regulations recommendations improving transparency coast_guard foreign rebuild determination process sec requires commandant submit congress assessment factors authority coast_guard impact ability vessels effectively compete international transportation markets sec directs commandant submit congress study feasibility establishing deepwater seaport arctic protect advance strategic interests sec requires commandant submit congress assessment increased vessel traffic including puget_sound strait georgia haro_strait strait_of_juan_de_fuca occur transport canadian oil sands oil directs commandant conducting assessment consult state washington affected tribal governments vessel operators oil sands producers spill response experts


Summary: Piracy Suppression Act of 2011 - (Sec. 2) Amends the Revised Statutes to subject any person who commits an act of piracy to the penalty of death or imprisonment for life. Defines "act of piracy" to mean any: (1) illegal act of violence, detention, or depredation, committed by the crew or passengers of a vessel against a vessel, person, or property on the high seas or in any other place outside the jurisdiction of a state (including inciting or facilitating such an act of piracy); and (2) any voluntary act of participation in the operation of a vessel with knowledge that it is a pirate ship. (Sec. 3) Directs the Secretary of Defense (DOD) to seek reimbursement from a foreign country for the cost of U.S. action to protect or defend foreign-flagged vessels of the country from a pirate attack, including the cost of U.S. action to deter the attack. Authorizes the waiver of such costs under certain circumstances. (Sec. 4) Directs the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to establish a training program for U.S. mariners on the use of force against pirates. (Sec. 5) Directs the DOT Secretary to require each federal agency responsible for the transport of equipment, materials, or commodities (government-impelled cargo) by U.S. vessels to provide armed personnel aboard such vessels while transiting high-risk waters. Requires each agency to reimburse vessel owners or operators for the cost of providing armed personnel. (Sec. 6) Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress on efforts to track ransom payments paid to pirates operating in the waters off Somalia and improve their prosecution.

piracy suppression act sec amends revised statutes subject person commits act piracy penalty death imprisonment life defines act piracy mean illegal act violence detention committed crew passengers vessel vessel person property high seas place outside jurisdiction state including facilitating act piracy voluntary act participation operation vessel knowledge pirate ship sec directs secretary defense dod seek reimbursement foreign country cost action protect defend foreign flagged vessels country pirate attack including cost action deter attack authorizes waiver costs certain circumstances sec directs secretary transportation dot establish training program mariners use force sec directs dot secretary require federal agency responsible transport equipment materials commodities government cargo vessels provide armed personnel aboard vessels transiting high risk waters requires agency reimburse vessel owners operators cost providing armed personnel sec directs comptroller general report congress efforts track ransom payments paid operating waters somalia improve prosecution


Summary: Suspected Maritime Activities Reporting of Terrorism Immunity Act or the SMART Immunity Act - Amends the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 to provide immunity for reporting or responding to any suspicious transaction, activity, or occurrence that involves or is directed against a vessel, facility, port, or waterway and that indicates an individual may be engaging in a violation of law relating to a threat or an act of terrorism against the vessel, facility, port, or waterway, whether or not a passenger is threatened.

suspected maritime activities reporting terrorism immunity act smart immunity act amends implementing recommendations commission act provide immunity reporting responding suspicious transaction activity occurrence involves directed vessel facility port waterway indicates individual engaging violation law relating threat act terrorism vessel facility port waterway passenger threatened


Summary: Transportation Security Administration Authorization Act of 2011 - Authorizes appropriations to the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for FY2012-FY2013. Directs the Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security (TSA) to carry out a risk-based program at airport checkpoints that expedites screening for trusted passengers, including members of the Armed Forces and their families. Requires the Assistant Secretary to carry out a program to ensure appropriate treatment in the screening of individuals with metal implants, prosthetics, and physical disabilities traveling by airplane. Prohibits pat-down screening of an air passenger child, unless a screening anomaly cannot be reasonably resolved by checkpoint technology. Directs the Assistant Secretary to establish requirements for screening technologies for all carry-on baggage and cargo destined for commercial aircraft. Requires the Assistant Secretary to ensure that by the end of 2013 at least 100 explosives detection canine teams are used to screen passengers at large U.S. airports. Directs the Assistant Secretary, working in cooperation with the Commissioner of Customs and Border Protection (CBP), to develop a pilot program at a large airport to test the feasibility of streamlining aviation security screening of baggage and passengers arriving in the United States who continue on domestic flights to a final destination. Prescribes requirements for: (1) standardization of operating procedures at airport checkpoints for passengers and carry-on baggage, (2) installation of automated targeting recognition software on all advanced imaging technology machines deployed in commercial airports for passenger screening, and (3) the disabling of image retention on all advanced imaging technology used to screen passengers. Directs the Assistant Secretary to ensure that advance notice of a covert test of a transportation security system is not provided to any individual (including any security screener) before completion of the test. Requires the Assistant Secretary to establish recurring training of transportation security officers on updated screening procedures and technologies. Establishes in the TSA an Office of the Ombudsman. Authorizes the Secretary to establish a voluntary air cargo advanced screening pilot program (ACAS Program) for targeting high-risk cargo entering the United States. Directs the Assistant Secretary to: (1) develop a process to certify third-party explosive detection canines for the screening of air cargo; and (2) encourage airports to develop clear reporting procedures for sharing information among federal, state, and local law enforcement personnel and airport Federal Security Directors. Requires the Assistant Secretary to conduct an efficiency review of TSA to identify spending reductions and savings through the streamlining and restructuring of its divisions. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary, to develop a strategic plan to reduce the TSA workforce by 5% by the end of FY2013. Directs the Assistant Secretary to establish in the TSA the Aviation Security Advisory Committee, including air cargo security and general aviation security working groups. Requires the Assistant Secretary to submit to Congress detailed acquisition and deployment plans for checkpoint security technology, explosive detection systems, and air cargo security technology for large commercial airports. Prescribes requirements for criminal investigative training for newly hired federal air marshals. Requires the Assistant Secretary to develop a strategic risk-based plan to improve airport transportation security that includes best practices to make airport perimeter access controls more secure. Requires the Assistant Secretary to study electromagnetic emission and radiation exposure from passenger and baggage screening equipment at commercial service airports. Amends the Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007 to direct the Assistant Secretary to establish a process for resolving reimbursement claims for airports that have incurred eligible costs for development of partial or completed in-line baggage systems. Directs the Assistant Secretary to: (1) review the process for amending airport security plans, (2) develop security procedures to enable aircraft operators subject to TSA security programs to obtain access to temporarily restricted airspace, and (3) assess periodically the risk of domestic and international flights to determine the optimal assignment of air marshals to highest risk flights. Authorizes the Assistant Secretary to donate, loan, or lease obsolete airport equipment, as well as provide training and other assistance, to foreign airports to mitigate assessed security vulnerabilities. Includes as an allowable airport improvement (AIP) cost projects to reconfigure or construct new terminal baggage areas as needed to install explosive detection systems. Requires the Secretary to establish a task force on crimes that disqualify individuals from transportation-related employment. Amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to direct the Secretary to issue final regulations prohibiting commercial motor vehicle operators and shippers from transporting a security-sensitive material without holding a valid transportation security card. Directs the Secretary to prohibit Mexican or Canadian licensed commercial motor vehicle operators from transporting a security-sensitive material in the United States without being subjected to, and not disqualified as a result of, a security threat assessment by a federal agency. Requires the Assistant Secretary to: (1) develop qualitative performance measures and objectives for assessing the effectiveness of Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response (VIPR) teams in providing transportation security, and (2) implement an interoperability of communications plan for VIPR team operations. Revises public transportation security grant requirements. Makes law enforcement agencies eligible for such grants. Directs the Assistant Secretary to conduct a freight rail security demonstration project. Requires the Assistant Secretary to increase the number of explosives detection canine teams certified by the TSA for passenger rail and public transportation security activities. Directs the Comptroller General to study the roles of DHS and the Department of Transportation (DOT) with respect to pipeline safety. Repeals the prohibition against installation or utilization of motor carrier security-sensitive material tracking technology without additional congressional authority. Directs the Assistant Secretary to establish in the TSA the Surface Transportation Advisory Committee, including passenger carrier security and freight rail security working groups. Directs the Secretary, acting through the Assistant Secretary, to develop a plan that includes best practices to improve intelligence information sharing with state and local transportation entities.

transportation_security_administration authorization act authorizes appropriations secretary homeland_security dhs transportation_security_administration tsa fy2012 fy2013 directs assistant secretary homeland_security tsa carry risk based program airport checkpoints screening trusted passengers including members armed_forces families requires assistant secretary carry program ensure appropriate treatment screening individuals metal prosthetics physical disabilities traveling airplane prohibits pat screening air passenger child screening reasonably resolved checkpoint technology directs assistant secretary establish requirements screening technologies carry baggage cargo destined commercial aircraft requires assistant secretary ensure end explosives detection canine teams screen passengers large airports directs assistant secretary working cooperation commissioner customs border protection cbp develop pilot program large airport test feasibility streamlining aviation security screening baggage passengers arriving united_states continue domestic flights final destination prescribes requirements standardization operating procedures airport checkpoints passengers carry baggage installation automated targeting recognition software advanced imaging technology machines deployed commercial airports passenger screening disabling image retention advanced imaging technology screen passengers directs assistant secretary ensure advance notice covert test transportation security system provided individual including security screener completion test requires assistant secretary establish recurring training transportation security officers updated screening procedures technologies establishes authorizes secretary establish voluntary air cargo advanced screening pilot program targeting high risk cargo entering united_states directs assistant secretary develop process certify party explosive detection screening air cargo encourage airports develop clear reporting procedures sharing information federal state local law enforcement personnel airport directors requires assistant secretary conduct efficiency review tsa identify spending reductions savings streamlining restructuring divisions directs secretary acting assistant secretary develop strategic plan reduce tsa workforce end fy2013 directs assistant secretary establish tsa aviation security advisory committee including air cargo security general aviation security working groups requires assistant secretary submit congress detailed acquisition deployment plans checkpoint security technology explosive detection systems air cargo security technology large commercial airports prescribes requirements criminal investigative training newly hired federal air marshals requires assistant secretary develop strategic risk based plan improve airport transportation security includes best practices airport perimeter access controls secure requires assistant secretary study electromagnetic emission radiation exposure passenger baggage screening equipment commercial service airports amends commission act direct assistant secretary establish process resolving reimbursement claims airports incurred eligible costs development partial completed line baggage systems directs assistant secretary review process amending airport security plans develop security procedures enable aircraft operators subject tsa security programs obtain access temporarily restricted airspace assess periodically risk domestic international flights determine optimal assignment air marshals highest risk flights authorizes assistant secretary donate loan lease obsolete airport equipment provide training assistance foreign airports mitigate assessed security vulnerabilities includes allowable airport improvement aip cost projects reconfigure construct new terminal baggage areas needed install explosive detection systems requires secretary establish task force crimes disqualify individuals transportation related employment amends homeland security act direct secretary issue final regulations prohibiting commercial motor vehicle operators shippers transporting security sensitive material holding valid transportation security card directs secretary prohibit mexican canadian licensed commercial motor vehicle operators transporting security sensitive material united_states subjected disqualified result security threat assessment federal agency requires assistant secretary develop qualitative performance measures objectives assessing effectiveness visible intermodal prevention response teams providing transportation security implement interoperability communications plan team operations revises public transportation security grant requirements makes law enforcement agencies eligible grants directs assistant secretary conduct freight rail security demonstration project requires assistant secretary increase number explosives detection canine teams certified tsa passenger rail public transportation security activities directs comptroller_general study roles dhs department_of_transportation dot respect pipeline safety repeals prohibition installation utilization motor carrier security sensitive material tracking technology additional congressional authority directs assistant secretary establish tsa including passenger carrier security freight rail security working groups directs secretary acting assistant secretary develop plan includes best practices improve intelligence information sharing state local transportation entities


Summary: Polar Protection Act - Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard (CG) is operating to use competitive procedures to enter into leases of at least 10 years for 2 polar icebreakers that meet the CG's maritime responsibilities in the Arctic and certain other requirements.

polar protection act authorizes secretary department coast_guard operating use competitive procedures enter leases years polar icebreakers meet maritime responsibilities arctic certain requirements


Summary: Expresses the sense of Congress that: (1) it is urgent that the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) application process be reformed by the end of 2012, (2) the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) should promulgate final regulations to require the deployment of TWIC readers as soon as practicable to ensure security, and (3) Port Security Grant Program funds for TWIC projects shall not expire before issuance of the final TWIC reader rule. Directs the Secretary to reform the process for the enrollment, activation, issuance, and renewal of a TWIC to require not more than one in-person visit to a designated enrollment center, except in cases in which there are extenuating circumstances requiring more than one such in-person visit.

expresses sense congress urgent twic application process reformed end secretary homeland_security dhs promulgate final regulations require deployment twic readers soon practicable ensure security port security grant program funds twic projects shall expire issuance final twic reader rule directs secretary reform process enrollment activation issuance renewal twic require person visit designated enrollment center cases extenuating circumstances requiring person visit


Summary: American Mariners Job Protection Act - Amends federal shipping laws that require a determination by the Administrator of the Maritime Administration regarding the non-availability of qualified U.S. flag capacity to meet national defense requirements before the head of an agency responsible for the administration of navigation or vessel-inspection laws is authorized on its own initiative to waive compliance with such laws when it considers it necessary in the interest of national defense. Requires the Administrator, in making such determinations, to: (1) identify any actions that could be taken to enable such flag capacity to meet the national defense requirements, (2) provide each such determination to the Secretary of Transportation and the head of the agency for which the determination is made, and (3) publish each such determination on the Internet site of the Department of Transportation (DOT) within 48 hours after it is provided to the Secretary. Directs the Secretary to notify Congress of any waiver requests or issuances. Requires the notification of the issuance of a waiver to include the reasons why: (1) the waiver is necessary, and (2) specified actions are not feasible.

federal shipping laws require determination administrator maritime_administration non availability qualified flag capacity meet national defense requirements head agency responsible administration navigation vessel inspection laws authorized initiative waive compliance laws considers necessary interest national defense requires administrator making determinations identify actions taken enable flag capacity meet national defense requirements provide determination secretary transportation head agency determination publish determination internet site department_of_transportation dot hours provided secretary directs secretary notify congress waiver requests issuances requires notification issuance waiver include reasons waiver necessary specified actions feasible


Summary: America's Cup Act of 2011 - Authorizes vessels operating in preparation for, or in connection with, the 34th America's Cup competition, that have been certified by the Administrator of the Maritime Administration to be eligible vessels, to position competing vessels and transport individuals, equipment, and supplies utilized for the staging, operations, or broadcast of the competition from and around U.S. ports. Deems such an eligibility certification to be conclusive evidence to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of the qualification of a vessel to participate in the competition. Subjects to specified penalties any vessel participating in the 34th America's Cup as a competing or supporting vessel that has not received an eligibility certification or that is not in compliance with provisions regarding coastwise endorsement to specified penalties.

america cup act authorizes vessels operating preparation connection america cup competition certified administrator maritime_administration eligible vessels position competing vessels transport individuals equipment supplies utilized operations broadcast competition ports deems eligibility certification conclusive evidence secretary department_of_homeland_security dhs qualification vessel participate competition subjects specified penalties vessel participating america cup competing supporting vessel received eligibility certification compliance provisions coastwise endorsement specified penalties


Summary: Port Security Efficiency Act - Authorizes the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) or of any other department in which the Coast Guard is operating, in assessing the effectiveness of antiterrorism measures maintained at foreign ports and notifying foreign governments of any steps necessary to improve such antiterrorism measures, to treat an assessment conducted by a foreign government or international organization as an assessment by the Secretary, provided that the Secretary certifies that such assessment was conducted in accordance with procedures specified in existing port security laws. Allows the appropriate Secretary to enter into agreements with a foreign government or international organization under which: (1) such governments or organizations may conduct such assessments on behalf of the Secretary or share related information, and (2) the Secretary may conduct such assessments on behalf of such governments or organizations or share related information. Prohibits this Act from: (1) requiring the approprite Secretary to recognize an assessment conducted by a foreign government or international organization, or (2) limiting the discretion or ability of the Secretary to conduct such an assessment.

secretary homeland_security dhs department coast_guard operating assessing effectiveness antiterrorism measures maintained foreign ports notifying foreign governments steps necessary improve antiterrorism measures treat assessment conducted foreign government international organization assessment secretary provided secretary certifies assessment conducted accordance procedures specified existing port security laws allows appropriate secretary enter agreements foreign government international organization governments organizations conduct assessments behalf secretary share related information secretary conduct assessments behalf governments organizations share related information prohibits act requiring secretary recognize assessment conducted foreign government international organization limiting discretion ability secretary conduct assessment


Summary: America's Cup Act of 2011 - Authorizes vessels operating in preparation for, or in connection with, the 34th America's Cup competition, that have been certified by the Administrator of the Maritime Administration to be eligible vessels, to position competing vessels and transport individuals, equipment, and supplies utilized for the staging, operations, or broadcast of the competition from and around U.S. ports. Deems such an eligibility certification to be conclusive evidence to the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of the qualification of a vessel to participate in the competition. Subjects to specified penalties any vessel participating in the 34th America's Cup as a competing or supporting vessel that has not received an eligibility certification or that is not in compliance with provisions regarding coastwise endorsement.

america cup act authorizes vessels operating preparation connection america cup competition certified administrator maritime_administration eligible vessels position competing vessels transport individuals equipment supplies utilized operations broadcast competition ports deems eligibility certification conclusive evidence secretary department_of_homeland_security dhs qualification vessel participate competition subjects specified penalties vessel participating america cup competing supporting vessel received eligibility certification compliance provisions coastwise endorsement


Summary: America's Cup Act of 2011 - Authorizes eligible competing or supporting vessels operating only in preparation for, or in connection with, the 34th America's Cup commencing in 2011 in the United States to position competing vessels and transport individuals, equipment, and supplies for such competition in and around U.S. ports. Prohibits vessels from operating unless issued an Eligibility Certification from the Administrator of the Maritime Administration of the Department of Transportation (DOT). Subjects noncompliant vessels to certain penalties. Authorizes the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise endorsement for the vessels: (1) M/V GEYSIR, (2) OCEAN VERITAS, and (3) LUNA. Authorizes issuance of a certificate of documentation with a coastwise endorsement for liquefying natural gas (LNG) tanker vessels: (1) LNG GEMINI, (2) LNG LEO, and (3) LNG VIRGO. Limits authorized coastwise trade for each vessel to the carriage of natural gas, as defined in the Deepwater Port Act of 1974. Prohibits a vessel transported in Dry Dock #2 (state of Alaska registration AIDEA FDD-2), if, during such transportation, such dock remains connected by a utility or other connecting line to pierside moorage, from being considered merchandise for purposes of certain coastwise trade requirements a vessel must otherwise meet before engaging in merchandise transportation.

america cup act authorizes eligible competing supporting vessels operating preparation connection america cup commencing united_states position competing vessels transport individuals equipment supplies competition ports prohibits vessels operating issued eligibility certification administrator dot subjects noncompliant vessels certain penalties authorizes secretary department coast_guard operating issue certificate documentation coastwise endorsement vessels ocean authorizes issuance certificate documentation coastwise endorsement natural gas lng tanker vessels limits authorized coastwise trade vessel carriage natural gas defined deepwater port act prohibits vessel transported dry dock state alaska registration transportation dock remains connected utility connecting line moorage considered merchandise purposes certain coastwise trade requirements vessel meet engaging merchandise transportation


Summary: Pirate Fishing Vessel Disposal Act of 2011 - Directs the head of a U.S. agency with administrative control over a forfeited vessel to transfer such vessel to the Commandant of the Coast Guard for use in live-fire sinking exercises if the Commandant determines that the vessel would be useful for such exercises. Requires, if a forfeited vessel is not transferred to or utilized by the Commandant for such exercises, that the forfeited vessel be transferred to or otherwise under the control of the Commandant, the Administrator of the Maritime Administration, or the Under Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere of the Department of Commerce, and be: (1) scrapped or recycled; (2) sold or donated to a developing nation for fisheries enforcement; or (3) donated to a not-for-profit institution or governmental agency for education, research, or other public interest purposes with an agreement that the vessel will never be utilized for illegal, unreported, or unregulated fishing or related activities. Defines a "forfeited vessel" as a foreign or stateless vessel forfeited to the United States for engaging in specified illegal, unreported, or unregulated fishing under any of the living marine resource statutes implemented by the Secretary of Commerce. Applies this Act to all forfeited vessels surrendered or seized and forfeited after September 1, 2011.

pirate fishing vessel disposal act directs head agency administrative control forfeited vessel transfer vessel commandant_of_the_coast_guard use live fire sinking exercises commandant determines vessel useful exercises requires forfeited vessel transferred utilized commandant exercises forfeited vessel transferred control commandant administrator maritime_administration secretary oceans recycled sold donated developing nation fisheries enforcement donated profit institution governmental agency education research public interest purposes agreement vessel utilized illegal unreported unregulated fishing related activities defines forfeited vessel foreign stateless vessel forfeited united_states engaging specified illegal unreported unregulated fishing living marine resource statutes implemented secretary commerce applies act forfeited vessels surrendered seized forfeited september


Summary: Port Security Grant Act of 2011 - Extends the authorization of appropriations for the port security grant program through FY2015.

port security grant act extends authorization appropriations port security grant program fy2015


Summary: Invest in American Jobs Act of 2011 - Revises Buy American requirements with respect to federal-aid highways, capital investment grants to support intercity passenger rail service (rail grants), and Amtrak, particularly the handling of waiver requests. Revises similar Buy American requirements with respect to public transportation, particularly rolling stock. Requires the cost of rolling stock components and subcomponents produced in the United States to increase from 60% in FY2012 by 10% annual increments up to 100% for FY2016 and ensuing fiscal years. Revises waiver requirements as well to mirror those for federal-aid highways. Applies the rail grant Buy American requirements under this Act to recipients of rail loans and loan guarantees with respect to railroad rehabilitation and improvement. Prescribes Buy American requirements for procurement of a facility or equipment under federal aviation programs similar to those for rolling stock. Requires the Secretary of Transportation (DOT) to report annually to Congress on: (1) each project for which a waiver of Buy American requirements was issued; and (2) the country of origin and product specifications for steel, iron, or manufactured goods acquired pursuant to each waiver. Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act to prescribe Buy American requirements for steel, iron, and manufactured goods used in the construction of a publicly owned wastewater treatment works. Adds similar Buy American requirements to the Public Works and Economic Development Act of 1965, with respect to economic development programs, and to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, with respect to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Declares that only a vessel owned by a U.S. citizen for which a certificate of documentation with a registry endorsement is issued may engage in support of exploration, development, or production of resources in, on, above, or below the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), or any other activity in the EEZ, to the extent that the regulation of such activity is not prohibited under customary international law. Exempts from this requirement any activities requiring either a coastwise endorsement or a fishery endorsement. Subjects to U.S. shipping law any vessels operating in the EEZ, to the extent that the regulation of such operation is not prohibited under customary international law. Directs the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to establish a program to provide Coast Guard personnel with the training necessary for implementation of U.S. shipping law in the EEZ.

invest american jobs act revises buy american requirements respect federal aid highways capital investment grants support intercity passenger rail service rail grants amtrak particularly handling waiver requests revises similar buy american requirements respect public transportation particularly rolling stock requires cost rolling stock components produced united_states increase fy2012 annual increments fy2016 ensuing fiscal years revises waiver requirements federal aid highways applies rail grant buy american requirements act recipients rail loans loan guarantees respect railroad rehabilitation improvement prescribes buy american requirements procurement facility equipment federal aviation programs similar rolling stock requires secretary transportation dot report annually congress project waiver buy american requirements issued country origin product specifications steel iron manufactured goods acquired pursuant waiver amends federal_water_pollution_control_act prescribe buy american requirements steel iron manufactured goods construction publicly owned wastewater treatment works adds similar buy american requirements public_works_and_economic_development_act respect economic development programs robert stafford disaster relief emergency assistance act respect federal_emergency_management_agency fema hazard mitigation grant program declares vessel owned citizen certificate documentation registry endorsement issued engage support exploration development production resources exclusive economic zone eez activity eez extent regulation activity prohibited customary international law exempts requirement activities requiring coastwise endorsement fishery endorsement subjects shipping law vessels operating eez extent regulation operation prohibited customary international law directs secretary department coast_guard operating establish program provide coast_guard personnel training necessary implementation shipping law eez


Summary: Gauging American Port Security Act or the GAPS Act - Directs the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) to: (1) conduct a study of gaps in U.S. port security and submit to Congress a report (in classified form but with an unclassified annex) that includes a prioritization of such gaps and a plan for addressing them; (2) share relevant information with designated points of contact from federal agencies, state, local, or tribal governments, and port system owners and operators in accordance with rules for the handling of classified information; and (3) help expedite the clearance process if a designated point of contact does not have the necessary security clearance to receive such information.

gaps act directs secretary homeland_security dhs conduct study gaps port security submit congress report classified form unclassified annex includes prioritization gaps plan addressing share relevant information designated points contact federal agencies state local tribal governments port system owners operators accordance rules handling classified information help expedite clearance process designated point contact necessary security clearance receive information


Summary: Defense of Environment and Property Act of 2012 - Amends the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (commonly known as the Clean Water Act) to redefine "navigable waters" to specify that included territorial seas are those that are: (1) navigable-in-fact; or (2) permanent, standing, or continuously flowing bodies of water that form geographical features commonly known as streams, oceans, rivers, and lakes that are connected to waters that are navigable-in-fact. Excludes from such term: (1) waters that do not physically abut navigable waters and lack a continuous surface water connection to navigable waters; (2) man-made or natural structures or channels through which water flows intermittently or ephemerally, or that periodically provide drainage for rainfall; or (3) wetlands without a continuous surface connection to bodies of water that are waters of the United States. Prohibits activities carried out by the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the Army Corps of Engineers from impinging upon states' power over land and water use. Prohibits: (1) aggregation of such excluded wetlands or waters from being used to determine or assert federal jurisdiction; and (2) wetlands without a continuous surface connection to bodies of water that are waters of the United States from being considered to be under federal jurisdiction. Authorizes states to appeal jurisdictional determinations by the Administrator that would affect their ability to plan the development and use of land and water resources for 30 days after such determination. Considers ground water to be state water. Prohibits ground water from being considered in determining or asserting federal jurisdiction over isolated or other waters. Prohibits the Administrator from using a significant nexus test to determine federal jurisdiction over navigable waters and waters of the United States. Gives no force or effect to: (1) the Corps' rule entitled "Final Rule for Regulatory Programs of the Corps of Engineers"; (2) EPA's proposed rule entitled "Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the Clean Water Act Regulatory Definition of 'Waters of the United States'"; (3) the guidance document entitled "Clean Water Act Jurisdiction Following the U.S. Supreme Court's Decision in Rapanos v. United States & Carabell v. United States (relating to the definition of waters under the jurisdiction of the Clean Water Act); and (4) any subsequent regulation of or guidance issued by federal agencies that defines or interprets the term "navigable waters." Prohibits the Corps and EPA from promulgating rules or issuing guidance that expands or interprets the definition of navigable waters unless expressly authorized by Congress. Sets forth provisions requiring federal agencies to obtain consent of private property owners prior to entering their land to collect information about navigable waters. Requires federal agencies that issue regulations that relate to the definition of navigable waters or waters of the United States and diminish the fair market value or economic viability of a property to pay the affected property owner an amount equal to twice the value of the loss. Gives no force or effect to such regulation until landowners with such claims have been compensated.

defense environment property act amends federal_water_pollution_control_act commonly known clean water act redefine navigable waters specify included territorial seas navigable fact permanent standing continuously flowing bodies water form geographical features commonly known streams oceans rivers lakes connected waters navigable fact excludes term waters physically abut navigable waters lack continuous surface water connection navigable waters man natural structures channels water flows intermittently periodically provide drainage rainfall wetlands continuous surface connection bodies water waters united_states prohibits activities carried administrator environmental_protection_agency epa army_corps_of_engineers states power land water use prohibits aggregation excluded wetlands waters determine assert federal jurisdiction wetlands continuous surface connection bodies water waters united_states considered federal jurisdiction authorizes states appeal jurisdictional determinations administrator affect ability plan development use land water resources days determination considers ground water state water prohibits ground water considered determining asserting federal jurisdiction isolated waters prohibits administrator significant nexus test determine federal jurisdiction navigable waters waters united_states gives force effect corps rule entitled final rule regulatory programs corps engineers epa proposed rule entitled advance notice proposed rulemaking clean water act regulatory definition waters united states guidance document entitled clean water act jurisdiction following supreme court decision united_states relating definition waters jurisdiction clean water act subsequent regulation guidance issued federal agencies defines interprets term navigable waters prohibits corps epa promulgating rules issuing guidance expands interprets definition navigable waters expressly authorized congress sets forth provisions requiring federal agencies obtain consent private property owners prior entering land collect information navigable waters requires federal agencies issue regulations relate definition navigable waters waters united_states diminish fair market value economic viability property pay affected property owner equal twice value loss gives force effect regulation landowners claims compensated


Summary: Mille Lacs Lake Freedom To Fish Act of 2012 - Exempts from certain federal vessel licensing and safety inspection requirements owners or operators of vessels operating on Mille Lacs Lake, Minnesota.

lake freedom fish act exempts certain federal vessel licensing safety inspection requirements owners operators vessels operating minnesota


Summary: Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Act of 2012 - Authorizes FY2013-FY2015 appropriations for the Coast Guard for: (1) operation and maintenance; (2) acquisition, construction, rebuilding, and improvement of aids to navigation, shore and offshore facilities, vessels, aircraft, and related equipment; (3) the Coast Guard Reserve program; (4) environmental compliance and restoration of vessels, aircraft, and facilities; and (5) the Commandant of the Coast Guard for research, development, test, and evaluation of technologies, materials, and human factors directly related to search and rescue, aids to navigation, marine safety, marine environmental protection, enforcement of laws and treaties, ice operations, oceanographic research, and defense readiness. Authorizes, for each such fiscal year, end-of-year strength for active duty personnel of 47,000 and specified average military training student loads. Requires the Secretary of the department in which the Coast Guard is operating to convene a special selection board if an administrative error results in an officer or former officer: (1) not being considered for selection for promotion by a selection board, or (2) not being placed on an all-fully-qualified-officers list. Authorizes the Secretary to also convene such a special selection board for an officer or former officer considered but not selected for promotion if the selection board: (1) acted contrary to law in a matter material to the decision or with the involvement of material factual or administrative error, or (2) did not have material information before it for consideration. Authorizes judicial review of: (1) a decision of the Secretary not to convene a special selection board, and (2) an action of a special selection board. Prohibits the Secretary from authorizing certain involuntary administrative separations for Coast Guard members based on medical conditions considered by the Physical Evaluation Board during an evaluation resulting in the individual being determined fit for duty. Directs the Commandant to submit to Congress an annual capital investment plan for the Coast Guard for each capital asset for which appropriations are proposed in the President's annual budget. Postpones certification requirements for certain fishing vessels built after a specified date to one year after the Secretary publishes the definition of the term "built" in the Federal Register. Directs the Commandant to maintain the schedule and requirements for the total acquisition of 180 boats specified in the approved program of record for the Response Boat-Medium acquisition program in effect on June 1, 2012, until the Commandant submits to Congress the documentation required to justify the acquisition of less boats. Directs the Secretary to report to Congress with a business-case analysis of the options for and costs of reactivating and extending the service life of the Coast Guard cutter Polar Sea until the estimated date on which a new polar-class icebreaker is commissioned.

coast_guard maritime transportation act authorizes fy2013 fy2015 appropriations coast_guard operation maintenance acquisition construction rebuilding improvement aids navigation shore offshore facilities vessels aircraft related equipment coast_guard_reserve program environmental compliance restoration vessels aircraft facilities commandant coast guard research development test evaluation technologies materials human factors directly related search rescue aids navigation marine safety marine environmental protection enforcement laws treaties ice operations oceanographic research defense readiness authorizes fiscal year end year strength active duty personnel specified average military training student loads requires secretary department coast_guard operating convene special selection board administrative error results officer officer considered selection promotion selection board placed fully qualified officers list authorizes secretary convene special selection board officer officer considered selected promotion selection board acted contrary law matter material decision involvement material factual administrative error material information consideration authorizes judicial review decision secretary convene special selection board action special selection board prohibits secretary authorizing certain involuntary administrative separations coast_guard members based medical conditions considered physical_evaluation_board evaluation resulting individual determined fit duty directs commandant submit congress annual capital investment plan coast_guard capital asset appropriations proposed president annual budget postpones certification requirements certain fishing vessels built specified date year secretary publishes definition term built federal_register directs commandant maintain schedule requirements total acquisition boats specified approved program record response boat medium acquisition program effect june commandant submits congress documentation required justify acquisition boats directs secretary report congress business case analysis options costs extending service life coast_guard cutter polar_sea estimated date new polar class icebreaker commissioned