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Committee sends $3 million Salvage Chief appropriation to Ways and Means
Summary
The Senate committee recommended Senate Bill 2 — a $3 million general fund appropriation to the Salvage Chief Foundation for repairs and Coast Guard compliance — be sent to the joint committee on ways and means for funding review.
The Senate Committee on Veterans, Emergency Management, Federal and World Affairs on March 25 moved Senate Bill 2 to the floor with a due-pass recommendation and requested referral to the Joint Committee on Ways and Means.
Committee staff described SB 2 as a $3,000,000 appropriation from the general fund to the Salvage Chief Foundation to repair the vessel known as the Salvage Chief. The overview listed uses for the funding including hull repairs, engine and fire-pump work, emergency communications upgrades, U.S. Coast Guard inspection and contingency costs, and returning the vessel to operation. The measure declares an emergency and is effective July 1, 2025, per the staff overview.
During committee discussion, members voiced support for the appropriation on disaster-preparedness and commerce-maintenance grounds. One senator said preparedness efforts “will really go a long way in our disaster preparedness” and emphasized the importance of keeping channels open for freight and services during catastrophic events.
The committee voted by voice and roll-call statements recorded in the transcript show multiple members voting aye. The chair announced the bill is recommended for referral to the joint committee on ways and means.
SB 2 will proceed to the Ways and Means Committee for fiscal review and budget consideration.
