Posted on April 5, 2022
NASHVILLE, Tenn., March 28, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — The American Waterways Operators applauds the Tennessee General Assembly for passing SJR0954, a resolution that reinforces support for the Jones Act, the foundational law of American maritime requiring that any vessel moving cargo between U.S. ports must be American-owned, crewed, and built.
Last month State Senator Janice Bowling introduced the resolution, which emphasizes the law’s “important role in fostering a strong domestic maritime industry that is critical to Tennessee’s and the nation’s economic prosperity and to national security.” In particular, the resolution highlights that Tennessee boasts 20,630 domestic maritime jobs, eighth highest in the country, which in turn creates $1.24 billion in worker income. The resolution also notes that the maritime industry adds $4.5 billion to the state’s economy, supports U.S. military readiness, and helps fortify homeland security.
In remarks on the Senate floor on February 10, Senator Bowling urged “those who care about the safety and the security and the sovereignty of the United States of America with regard to our internal waterways, the ships that are on them, and the crews that supply them,” to support the resolution.
Justin Lampert, AWO’s Senior Manager – Midcontinent Office, commented: “In recognizing the Jones Act and the American maritime workforce, Tennessee legislators have done a great service for this state. The tugboat, towboat and barge industry is proud to be a major contributor to Tennessee’s and America’s economy and security, and we thank the General Assembly for underscoring the importance of the Jones Act in making that possible.”
The resolution in its entirety can be viewed here.
About the American Waterways Operators
The American Waterways Operators is the tugboat, towboat and barge industry’s advocate, resource and united voice for safe, sustainable and efficient transportation on America’s waterways, oceans and coasts. Industry vessels move more than 665 million tons of America’s commerce each year on the U.S. inland and intracoastal waterways, the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf Coasts and the Great Lakes.
For more information about the importance of waterway transportation, please contact AWO at (703) 841-9300 or visit AWO’s website at www.americanwaterways.com.
