U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., introduced legislation Tuesday to establish a secretary of the Coast Guard, a position that would oversee the branch’s operations and report directly to the Secretary of Homeland Security.

The Coast Guard Improvement Act, co-sponsored by Sen. Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va., aims to provide the U.S. Coast Guard with enhanced strategic oversight to better address evolving national security challenges.

“The establishment of a Secretary of the Coast Guard is an important step in ensuring our nation’s maritime security is led with the strength and efficiency it deserves,” Scott said. “It’s critical to have a dedicated leader working closely with President Trump, our military leaders, and the Department of Homeland Security to keep the nation safe.”