Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senators Todd Young and Mark Kelly, along with Representatives Trent Kelly and John Garamendi, have introduced the Shipbuilding and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security (SHIPS) for America Act. This legislative initiative aims to revitalize the U.S. shipbuilding and commercial maritime industries, which have experienced a decline over recent decades.

Senator Young emphasized the national security aspect of the bill: “Shipbuilding is a national security priority and a stopgap against foreign threats and coercion.” He highlighted the importance of rebuilding America's shipyard industrial base.

Senator Kelly noted the competition with China in international shipping: “The SHIPS for America Act is the answer to this challenge... it will strengthen supply chains, reduce our reliance on foreign vessels, put Americans to work in good-paying jobs, and support the Navy and Coast Guard’s shipbuilding needs.”

Representative Kelly also pointed out the economic resilience that comes with strengthening America’s shipbuilding capacity. Representative Garamendi added that "this bill represents the most substantial and comprehensive approach to have America compete and lead globally."

The legislation has received endorsements from various organizations such as the Shipbuilders Council of America, American Maritime Partnership, National Association of Waterfront Employers, among others. R. Christian Johnsen from USA Maritime stated that it would enhance "our nation’s economic security by increasing the carriage of America’s foreign trade on U.S.-flag commercial vessels."

Mike Stevens from the Navy League praised it as a landmark achievement crucial for maintaining a robust U.S.-flag merchant marine.

The proposed act focuses on incentivizing domestic shipbuilding, expanding workforce development, establishing national oversight for maritime policy, and ensuring consistent funding.