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“This bill marks the end of a year-long process to secure a bipartisan deal to fund the federal government, and end the persistent threat of looming government shutdowns,” said Courtney. “This deal is great news for both Connecticut’s defense industry and our overall economy. The bill contains strong support for all of Connecticut’s defense manufacturing priorities, including my amendment to authorize the Navy to sign an agreement with Electric Boat and its partners to build up to 13 Virginia-class submarines under the next block contract. This will help meet urgent national security needs and further expand on the growing impact that submarine construction is having in our state.

Our subcommittee responded to this clear demand signal by giving the Navy the authority to procure up to 13 Virginia class submarines in the next block contract – three more than was planned. This plan, which passed on a bipartisan basis starting with this panel and is now law, was crafted to take advantage of capacity in the industrial base between years that we are building the Columbia class SSBN.

“With imported seafood making up 90% of American seafood consumption, our nation should be focusing on programs to expand and improve our domestic aquaculture industry,” wrote the members. “Sea Grant is a program that does just that—helping fishermen and shellfish farmers navigate a complex patchwork of state and federal coastal zone management regulations through technical assistance. Sea Grant works with local producers to grow and sustain their business models while connecting them to local resources to share best practices.”

The 2019 budget request for these programs reflects the challenging balancing act facing the Air Force and the Congress. For instance, the budget continues significant investment in major replacement programs like the B-21 bomber and the KC-46 tanker. At the same time, a large portion of the request also covers a range of modernization efforts aimed at keeping older legacy bombers and tankers operational and relevant for years to come.

“As the ranking member of the Seapower subcommittee, it is great to see the shipbuilding plan we passed fueling positive trends and growth. This visit was proof that the work we are doing with the Navy is generating sustained growth across the entire state, not just at the shipyard itself.”

“The Sea Grant program is dedicated to the sustainable use of our coastal resources while advancing conservation efforts to protect our oceans and waterways. In southeastern Connecticut, Sea Grant is a vital part of our maritime economy and I am glad that we have had a thriving program serving our region for thirty years. I will continue to work alongside leaders, such as Dr. De Guise, to further the reach and effectiveness of this incredible program.”

“I am very pleased that the military was able to provide a resolution for our service members, who clearly deserve Imminent Danger Pay when operating in hostile environments in the Sahel region of Africa,” said Courtney.