NAWE Announces Congressional Champions
Four bipartisan Members of Congress have been selected as recipients for their leadership on maritime policies and initiatives in Congress
Washington, DC (February 1, 2024) – The National Association of Waterfront Employers (NAWE) today announced four distinguished members of Congress as Congressional Champions in recognition of their exceptional commitment to advancing the interests of marine terminal operators and the stevedoring industry during the first session of the 118th Congress. Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04), Brian Babin (R-TX-36), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), and Mike Ezell (R-MS-04) were presented the awards for their leadership in Congress on maritime issues at NAWE’s fly-in reception on Capitol Hill. More specific details for each recipient are included below.
“On behalf of the marine terminal operating industry, I would like to thank each and every one of our NAWE champions for their commitment to fighting for the continued success and resilience of our nation’s maritime sector. Our Congressional champions, Representatives Jake Auchincloss, Brian Babin, Troy Carter and Mike Ezell have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing the interests of MTOs and the stevedoring industry,” said NAWE President Robert Murray. “Their tireless efforts in Congress, advocating for fair regulations, supporting legislative initiatives, and championing sustainability, innovation, and job creation within our ports and waterways have been instrumental in shaping a more robust and thriving maritime supply chain.”
- Congressman Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04)
o Serving on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Congressman Auchincloss has proven to be a stalwart advocate for the maritime industry. His joint, bipartisan effort with Congressman Brian Babin urging the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) to align with the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 showcases Auchincloss’ commitment to ensuring fair and effective regulations for the maritime industry. Furthermore, his cosponsorship of H.R. 4993 to extend the Capital Construction Fund to allow marine terminal operators to purchase near-zero and zero-emission cargo handling equipment underscores his dedication to advancing the industry. Auchincloss also sent a bipartisan letter to the FMC, along with Rep. Mike Ezell, calling for the establishment of a National Port Advisory Committee that would give marine terminal operators a stronger voice in advising the FMC on current and emerging issues.
- Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX-36)
o Congressman Babin, a dedicated member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, has demonstrated unwavering support for the maritime sector. His collaboration with Congressman Jake Auchincloss resulted in a crucial letter to the Federal Maritime Commission, urging adherence to the congressional intent outlined in the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022. Additionally, Babin has shown leadership by cosponsoring H.R. 4993, a piece of legislation that NAWE proudly endorses.
- Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA-02)
o As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Congressman Carter has played a pivotal role in championing the maritime supply chain. His leadership as the lead Democratic sponsor of H.R. 4993, a bipartisan bill aimed at extending tax incentives for private capital investments, demonstrates a commitment to promoting sustainability, technological innovation, and job creation within American ports and waterways.
- Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS-04)
o Congressman Ezell serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee and has been a driving force in advancing legislation crucial to the maritime sector. As the lead Republican sponsor of H.R. 4993, he has actively contributed to bipartisan efforts to extend tax incentives, fostering private capital investments that reduce emissions, promote innovation in domestic manufacturing, and create high-skilled job opportunities for American workers. Additionally, Rep. Ezell joined forces with Rep. Jake Auchincloss in asking the FMC to establish a National Port Advisory Committee comprised of public port authorities, marine terminal operators, and maritime labor.
The National Association of Waterfront Employers extends its deepest appreciation to Congressman Auchincloss, Congressman Babin, Congressman Carter, and Congressman Ezell for their outstanding dedication to the growth, sustainability, and prosperity of the maritime industry.
Pictures of the award presentation are found below and can also be downloaded here.
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About NAWE
The National Association of Waterfront Employers is a Washington based trade association whose member companies are privately owned stevedores, marine terminal operators, and other waterfront related employers. Member companies do business at major U.S Ports on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, the Gulf of Mexico, the Great Lakes, Canada, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. These firms are committed to keeping America’s international trade and commerce flowing to better serve our economy. Learn more at https://nawe.us/.