H.R. 4375: Great Lakes Icebreaker Act of 2025

This bill, known as the Great Lakes Icebreaker Act of 2025, aims to improve icebreaking capabilities in the Great Lakes by instructing the U.S. Coast Guard to develop a detailed strategy for designing and constructing a new icebreaker vessel. Here is an overview of its key components:

Strategy for New Icebreaker

The bill mandates that within 90 days of its enactment, the Commandant of the Coast Guard must submit a strategy to Congress. This strategy should outline:

• How the Coast Guard plans to complete the design and construction of a new icebreaker.
• The new icebreaker must be at least as capable as the current Coast Guard cutter Mackinaw (WLBB–30).
• Estimates regarding costs and delivery timelines for the project.

Icebreaker Pilot Program

The bill also establishes a pilot program that will last for five ice seasons (the winters following the bill's enactment). This program aims to evaluate whether the existing Great Lakes icebreaking fleet can keep key waterways open 95% of the time during these seasons. The outcomes of this pilot program must be reported to Congress within 180 days after each ice season ends.

Modifications to Reporting Requirements

Additionally, the bill modifies how the Coast Guard reports on icebreaking operations in the Great Lakes. Specifically:

• It requires the Commandant to publicly share information about the costs associated with meeting icebreaking standards, ensuring transparency.
• A public report must be published on the Coast Guard’s website regarding the financial aspects of these operations annually after the first winter the Commandant submits relevant reports as directed by previous legislation.
• It also includes requirements for the Commandant to brief Congress on costs related to fulfilling existing regulations over multiple fiscal years.

Overall Purpose

The goal of the bill is aimed at enhancing the Coast Guard’s capabilities to manage ice conditions in the Great Lakes, ultimately supporting navigation and trade during winter months.

Relevant Companies

• CNH Industrial (CNHI) - As a manufacturer of vehicles and machinery that may depend on Great Lakes shipping routes, potential delays in navigation due to inadequate icebreaking could impact their supply chain and logistics.
• Garmin Ltd. (GRMN) - As a company providing navigation technology, ice navigation operations could influence their market dynamics in the region, particularly during the winter months.