GAO Testimony: Coast Guard: Actions Needed to Improve Maritime Interdictions

GAO Director Heather Macleod testified on January 13, 2026 before the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. The Coast Guard employs assets--including aircraft and vessels--and personnel to conduct law enforcement operations. In prior work, GAO identified longstanding challenges that have hindered the Coast Guard's ability to meet its law enforcement mission demands. GAO made recommendations to help address asset availability, acquisitions, and workforce challenges, which the Coast Guard has yet to fully address.