Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter (D-NY-28), Chairwoman of the House Committee on Rules, said that new Coast Guard legislation includes numerous benefits for the Great Lakes region. The bill authorizes $153 million for the design and construction of a new replacement icebreaker for the Great Lakes.

“This legislation is good news for the Great Lakes region and any coastal area that relies on the Coast Guard for protection and patrols,” Slaughter said. “The Great Lakes are a vital commerce corridor and I’m particularly pleased about the purchase and construction of a new icebreaker that will allow commerce to flow through our majestic lakes. I am proud to move this bill to the House floor for a final vote and work with leadership to get the legislation through the Senate and to the President for his signature.”

During normal winters the Coast Guard will spend more than 4,000 hours breaking ice to keep shipping moving. Breaking ice is needed even during warm winters. Each year during winter months, 17 million tons of commerce move through the Great Lakes.

Slaughter represents the 28th Congressional District which includes Niagara Falls and one-third of the American coastline along Lake Ontario. She is also Co-chair of the Great Lakes Caucus in the House of Representatives.