American port authorities ask Congress and Biden for relief
An industry trade group coalition representing port authorities transmitted a letter to President Joe Biden and congressional leaders to provide emergency relief for the US maritime transit system.
By Michael McGrady, Maritime Direct Americas Correspondent
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) has joined with a coalition of other maritime industry groups calling for the Biden administration to authorize emergency relief funds for the nation’s maritime transportation system. AAPA and their coalition informed members of Congres and President Joe Biden in letters provided to the officials, asking for further support.
“Despite container surges at several large ports, commercial cargo volumes have plummeted across the industry — total waterborne trade volume is down 5.5% compared to last year, while the value of this trade has crashed by 12.7% totaling $200 billion,” the groups said in the letter.
“During these uncertain times, the U.S. maritime industry and its workforce has sustained the movement of food, medical supplies, and other essential goods to our communities,” commented AAPA President and CEO Christopher Connor, in a seperate press statement. “This emergency relief will ensure operational continuity at the elevated level which Americans have come to depend on.”
The coalition’s calls come after maritime industry regulators lobbied the Biden presidency for more COVID-19 pandemic support for crew members. Maritime Direct reported on this, noting that two commissioners for the Federal Maritime Commission announced on sent an official letter to President Joe Biden asking for the industry to be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccines on January 29, 2021.
The letter from AAPA’s coalition was dated February 2, 2021.
This is a developing story.
