Rep. Lynch Introduces Amendment to Prevent Closure of Station Scituate

Sep 20, 2021 | 8th Congressional District, National Security, News & Updates

Boston, MA – In response to the U.S. Coast Guard’s proposal to close Station Scituate, U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08) introduced an amendment to the FY2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to prohibit the closure of Station Scituate.  The amendment would require the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security to conduct a comprehensive audit on the impact the proposed closure would have on response time and public safety.  It would also direct the Secretary of Homeland Security and the Commandant of the Coast Guard certify to Congress that the proposal will not increase average response times or present a safety risk to residents within the station’s area of responsibility.  

In the event of its closure, the responsibilities of Station Scituate would be absorbed by Station Point Allerton in Hull and Station Cape Cod Canal, which are both a considerable distance from most south shore communities.  There has been a rise in commercial and residential boating activity over the past two years, and the closure of Station Scituate would increase potential response time for rescue operations to two hours in bad weather. 

“Our Coast Guard plays a critical role in our south shore communities and their boating safety,” said Rep. Lynch.  “They provide life-saving assistance as our first responders in the event of a water emergency, and closing this station will significantly increase their response time to people in need.  Station Scituate is a vital station for rescue mission efforts and its closure could cost people their lives.” 

Last month, Congressman Lynch held a press conference with Scituate Town Administrator Jim Boudreau, Congressman Bill Keating, and elected officials from Scituate and surrounding communities in opposition to the proposed closure of Station Scituate.  Additionally, Congressman Lynch, Senator Warren, Senator Markey and Congressman Keating have already sent a letter to the United States Coast Guard urging First District Commander Rear Admiral Thomas Allan reconsider the plans to consolidate Station Scituate.  A copy of the letter can be found here.