; and (2) that— (A) none of the candidates under paragraph (1) met the qualifications needed by an officer serving in that position or office to carry out effectively the duties and responsibilities of that position or office; or (B) the officers currently serving in the positions designated under subsection (a) represent the diversity of the armed forces to the extent practicable. . (2) O–9 grades in Coast Guard Section 305(a) of title 14, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new paragraphs: (4) The Commandant shall consider all Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, African American, Hispanic, Puerto Rican, Native American, Alaska Native and female candidates prior to recommending to the President an initial appointment to the grade of vice admiral under this subsection. (5) When seeking the advice and consent of the Senate for the appointment of an officer under paragraph (2), the President shall submit to the committee of the Senate with jurisdiction over the department in which the Coast Guard is operating a certification— (A) that all Asian American, Native Hawaiian, Pacific Islander, African American, Hispanic, Puerto Rican, Native American, Alaska Native and female candidates were considered for appointment; and (B) that— (i) none of the candidates under subparagraph (A) met the qualifications needed by an officer serving in that position or office to carry out effectively the duties and responsibilities of that position or office