Beyond the important contributions to our economy, U.S.-flag ships, U.S.-licensed mariners, and U.S. shipbuilders are vital to our national security. The U.S. military relies on U.S.-flag commercial vessels crewed by American Merchant Mariners to carry troops, weapons, and supplies to the battlefield. We cannot rely on foreign vessels and crews to provide for our national security. We must maintain a robust fleet of U.S.-flag vessels, a cadre of skilled American mariners, and a strong shipyard industrial base.
I am interested in ways in which we can promote the U.S. fleet through more efficient and less burdensome regulation as well as increased investment.
I look forward to hearing from the witnesses on ways in which we can further promote the U.S.-flag fleet and create more U.S. mariner jobs.
Source: House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
