U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, has announced that she secured funding for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bill was advanced by a vote of 26-3.
The act allocates $153.5 billion in discretionary funding, with $19.8 billion designated for defense and $133.6 billion for nondefense purposes.
"The dedicated men and women that make up the Maine National Guard and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard workforce play an important role in strengthening our national security. This significant investment would help to ensure our military’s readiness and safety while reducing maintenance costs,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to champion this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
The bill includes several key projects for Maine:
Local Projects: $9 million is allocated for Congressionally Directed Spending projects supporting the Maine National Guard and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
Power Reliability & Water Resiliency Upgrades: Nearly $228 million is earmarked for Power Reliability & Water Resilience Upgrades at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to enhance electric and water utility systems.
Multi-Mission Drydock #1: Nearly $221 million is provided for the Multi-Mission Drydock #1 at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard.
Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program (SIOP): The report emphasizes SIOP's importance and urges timely funding of public shipyard infrastructure by the Navy.
GI Bill Apprenticeship Program: The report highlights underutilization issues in apprenticeship and on-the-job training under the GI Bill.
