The Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell announced on July 18 that the Subcommittee will hold a roundtable to discuss marine safety programs. The event is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. ET on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, in Room 2167 of the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington, D.C.
Industry stakeholders representing various types of vessel operators engaged in domestic commerce are expected to participate and offer their insights aimed at improving safety within the maritime industry. According to the announcement, these stakeholders will share perspectives on how current marine safety programs can be enhanced.
The witness list includes Rear Admiral David C. Barata, Deputy Commandant for Operations Policy and Capabilities at the United States Coast Guard; Andrew Sargis, Director of Sales for Wendella Tours & Cruises and Chief of Operations of the Chicago Water Taxi; David Kennedy from Boat Owners Association of The United States; Dave Marlow, Senior Director of Product Integrity at Brunswick; Jennifer Carpenter, President and Chief Executive Officer of The American Waterways Operators; Cameron Humphrey, Director of Government Affairs at Saronic Technologies; Ken Franke, President of Sportfishing Association of California; Chris Woodley from United Fishermen of Alaska; Aaron Smith, President of Offshore Marine Services Association; and Donald F. Josberger, President of International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots AFL-CIO.
More information about the roundtable entitled “Intersecting Courses: Maritime Safety Regulation and Technology,” including witness testimony and a link to a live webcast as it becomes available, will be posted by the Subcommittee.