AAPA Calls For GAO Study On Adequate Dredge Capacity

Congressional members listened intently this past week to the port industry regarding concerns over adequate dredge capacity. Some of the port industry's most formidable leaders convened at a House Joint Subcommittee hearing of the Transportation and Infrastructure's subcommittees on Coast Guard and Maritime resources and the Environment this past week. The hearing focused on interpretations of existing ownership requirements for U.S. flag dredges, especially exemptions to foreign chartering prohibitions.

Rear Admiral Richard M. Larrabee, Director of Port Commerce at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, testified on behalf of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA). AAPA voiced concern that any changes to the law's exemption could restrict competition on dredging projects and may increase the cost of dredging.