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Congressman Carter Introduces Bill to Strengthen Port Infrastructure and Support American Manufacturing

July 31, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-La.), member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-Ms) introduced H.R. 4993, a bipartisan bill designed to maximize investment in infrastructure for cargo ports and support American manufacturing jobs.

“I’m proud to lead the bipartisan H.R. 4993 with Congressman Ezell. These improvements to the CCF will allow forMTOs to have more leeway and leverage over their operation, giving them more opportunity to create good jobs and promote environmental sustainability on our waterways,” said Rep. Carter. “This will give waterfront employees, coastal communities, and port economies the resources they need to succeed.”

H.R. 4993 would expand the Capital Construction Fund (CCF) program to allow Marine Terminal Operators (MTOs) to use a tax-deferred account to purchase American-made cargo handling equipment.

"Our legislation helps modernize the infrastructure at America's ports and harbors and strengthens our supply chains," said Rep. Ezell. "At the same time, it will support economic growth both at our ports in South Mississippi and in manufacturing across our state. I'm grateful to Congressman Carter for partnering with me on this common-sense legislation."

NAWE’s members are thrilled to see bipartisan legislation introduced that supports marine terminal operators around the country who are committed to providing a healthy and safe work environment," said Rob Murray, President of the National Association of Waterfront Employers. "MTOs make large capital investments in specialized cargo handling equipment that is operated by dedicated waterfront workers and built by highly skilled labor in small, rural towns across the country. This legislation will support economic growth and create domestic manufacturing jobs from coast to coast. NAWE calls on Congress to support the proposed amendment to CCF to include cargo handling equipment.”

This change will create more job opportunities for Louisiana’s ports. The increased financial flexibility will allow for the development and expansion of port infrastructure, attracting new businesses and industries to the region. This investment will not only boost employment in the maritime sector but also stimulate growth in related industries, benefiting the local economy.

The legislation to add cargo handling equipment to the CCF program has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

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