(a) Dredging needs

The Secretary is authorized to conduct such studies as are necessary to provide a report to Congress on the dredging needs of the national ports and harbors of the United States. The report shall include existing and projected future project depths, types and sizes of ships in use, and world trade patterns, an assessment of the future national waterside infrastructure needs, and a comparison of drafts of United States and selected world ports.

(b) Authorization of appropriations

There is authorized to be appropriated $2,500,000 to carry out this section for fiscal years beginning after September 30, 1992. Such sums shall remain available until expended.