The Strengthening Coast Guard Communities Act of 2026 gives the Commandant of the Coast Guard direct authority to enter into agreements with state and local governments to provide support services at Coast Guard installations. Previously, this authority rested with the department secretary, but this bill delegates that power down to the Commandant level to streamline decision-making. Within 60 days of exercising this new authority, the Commandant must notify the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure about any agreements entered into. The bill aims to strengthen relationships between the Coast Guard and the communities where its installations are located by making it easier to work out support arrangements. The legislation does not specify new funding amounts or implementation timelines beyond the 60-day notification requirement.