Support for Small Shipyards and Maritime Communities in Wisconsin, Championed by Senator Baldwin, Passes Committee

WASHINGTON, D.C. –Last week, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin, a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, introduced the Small Shipyards and Maritime Communities Act to reauthorize the Small Shipyard Grant Program through 2020. The bipartisan measure passed the Senate Commerce Committee today as a part of the Maritime Administration Authorization and Enhancement Act for FY2018.

The Small Shipyard Grant Program provides assistance to small shipyards to make capital improvements and train workers to remain competitive in the global marketplace. Small Shipyard grants support American manufacturers and workers that provide parts for shipbuilding, maintenance and repair services.

The full Senate will now vote on the bipartisan legislation.

“In Wisconsin, and across America, small shipyards are considered the lifeblood of the maritime economy,” said Senator Baldwin. “Funding this program is a win for America’s small shipyards, equipment manufacturers, the workboat fleet, and jobs in all of these industries.”

Senator Baldwin has been a strong advocate for Wisconsin shipyards and our Made in Wisconsin economy. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Baldwin successfully included many provisions in the FY2017 funding legislation on behalf of Wisconsin shipbuilders, including procurement funding for three Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) and $10 million in new investments for small shipyards and maritime communities.

Baldwin originally introduced the bipartisan legislation with Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA).

The Small Shipyards and Maritime Communities Act is supported by the National Marine Manufacturers Association, Passenger Vessel Association, Shipbuilders Council, Association of Equipment Engineers, American Waterways Operators, and the Lake Carriers Association.