Lawmakers introduce SHIPS for America Act to boost US maritime industry

Representative John Garamendi, along with Senator Mark Kelly, Senator Todd Young, and Representative Trent Kelly, introduced the SHIPS for America Act. The legislation aims to revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine and address gaps in the maritime industry. Currently, only about 80 U.S.-flagged ships are involved in international commerce compared to over 5,500 China-flagged vessels.

The bill proposes a comprehensive strategy to ensure national oversight and consistent funding for the maritime industry. It also seeks to enhance the competitiveness of U.S.-flagged vessels, rebuild the U.S. shipyard base, and expand efforts to recruit skilled mariners.

"For far too long, the United States neglected our maritime industries," said Congressman John Garamendi. He emphasized that this bill represents a substantial approach for America to compete globally.

With China's growing influence in global maritime sectors, strengthening the U.S. Merchant Marine is crucial for maintaining dominance in international commerce. The SHIPS for America Act includes various measures such as establishing a Maritime Security Advisor within the White House and creating a Strategic Commercial Fleet Program.

The act also contains legislation authored or co-sponsored by Representative Garamendi like H.R.9348 and H.R.2373 among others.

Maritime leaders have expressed support for this initiative:

Stephen M. Carmel stated that "this legislation is a bold first step in reversing" vulnerabilities caused by decades of neglect.

Austin Gray noted that "this thoughtfully crafted bill combines revitalization with tangible tax incentives."

Fair Kim from American Maritime Congress highlighted it as "a historic opportunity for our great nation."

David Heindel from Seafarers International Union described it as an "extraordinary piece of legislation."

R. Christian Johnsen of USA Maritime emphasized its role in supporting national security objectives.

Captain Don Marcus remarked on job creation benefits from this policy initiative.

C. James Patti urged congressional support against growing Chinese influence.

Mike Stevens from Navy League called it "a landmark legislative achievement."

Maria Conatser advocated its potential impact on foreign policy and economic prosperity.

Jim (retired USCG) endorsed its focus on revitalizing domestic shipbuilding and workforce development.

Vice Adm. (Ret.) Michael J. Duont praised its potential to strengthen national security during conflicts or peace times.

Mark A. Clements Jr., representing AFL-CIO's Maritime Trades Department, offered full support highlighting workforce renaissance potential.

Philly Shipyard Inc recognized it as providing substantial incentives for purchasing U.S.-built vessels while AMOS commended leadership shown by lawmakers involved in introducing this critical legislation aimed at bolstering America's maritime capabilities amidst global challenges faced today by expanding number of U.S.-flagged vessels through proposed changes outlined within SHIPS For America Act itself according recent statements made publically available regarding same topic matter discussed hereinabove aforementioned text content shared earlier prior current iteration present moment now ongoing here today still yet further beyond mere words alone expressed above mentioned contextually related information contained herein thus far presented up until point reached presently existing circumstances surrounding entire issue altogether considered comprehensively analyzed evaluated assessed determined concluded finally resolved ultimately resulting outcome achieved accomplished 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