Mississippi Gulf News

Today, the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee convened for a hearing titled "America Builds: Maritime Infrastructure." Subcommittee Chairman Mike Ezell (MS-04) addressed the gathering, marking his first hearing as Chairman. He began by expressing condolences for those affected by a recent accident near DCA Airport, acknowledging the efforts of first responders, including the Coast Guard.

The session marked the beginning of the 119th Congress's efforts under the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's "America Builds" series. The focus was on enhancing maritime infrastructure to create a safer and more efficient system. Chairman Ezell emphasized the importance of America's Marine Transportation System, which includes navigable waterways, commercial ports, and land-side connections that facilitate passenger movement and cargo worth billions annually.

Ezell highlighted the role of ports in connecting cargo to inland destinations and facilitating exports overseas. He explained that marine terminals within each port handle cargo loading and unloading for domestic coastwise trade or international markets. The Jones Act was underscored as essential to maintaining a qualified pool of American mariners vital for transporting goods and military personnel.

Concerns were raised about declining shipbuilding capacity due to global competition. Coastal Mississippi and the Gulf Coast host several shipyards employing thousands, prompting discussions on revitalizing this industry. Ezell mentioned programs administered by the Maritime Administration aimed at funding maritime infrastructure projects.

The hearing also addressed challenges posed by autonomous maritime technologies, which necessitate updates to current infrastructure for safe operation. The U.S. Coast Guard is tasked with developing regulatory standards for these technologies, despite their rapid development outpacing rulemaking processes.

Chairman Ezell expressed eagerness to improve existing programs with stakeholder input and discussed advancing America's maritime infrastructure.