WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) issued the following statement for National Maritime Day, May 22, 2023.
“Maritime infrastructure plays a significant role in South Louisiana’s economy. Our district is a testament to the importance of the maritime industry in preserving our heritage, bolstering our national security, and supporting thousands of good-paying American jobs,” said Congressman Higgins. “The Jones Act ensures a skilled maritime workforce that stands ready to support our national defense and commerce by providing a strong domestic shipbuilding industry and a reliable skilled workforce. My office has made dredging and proper maintenance of water management systems a top infrastructure priority as ports and waterways are vital economic engines that serve our waterways. We’ll continue to advocate for the needs of our ports and maritime assets by working with industry, state, and federal partners to improve dredging efforts and grow commercial activity for the region.”
According to the findings of an updated study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) on behalf of the Transportation Institute (TI), the American maritime industry supports 70,780 jobs, $18.2 billion in annual economic activity, and $4.17 billion in annual labor income for Louisiana. In Louisiana’s 3rd District alone, American maritime supports 8,310 jobs, $2.1 billion in annual economic activity, and $470 million in annual labor income.
The study recognizes the important impact of the Jones Act, a foundational law that requires that cargo transported between all U.S. points be carried by American-built, -owned, and -crewed vessels. This ensures job opportunities for the people of South Louisiana and that the Armed Forces can call upon American maritime in times of need.
Watch his video statement here.
