Lee Introduces Legislation to Cut Regulations and Accelerate Baltimore's Recovery Amid Bridge Collapse
July 11, 2024
WASHINGTON – In response to the recent collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced two pieces of legislation to cut burdensome regulations and expedite recovery efforts for Baltimore and its vital port. The collapse has significantly impacted thousands of residents and businesses dependent on the port for their livelihoods and impacted the supply chain nationwide.
“By temporarily suspending these outdated regulations, we can get the government out of the way and allow Baltimore to recover more quickly and efficiently,” said Senator Lee. “It’s time for the federal government to step back and remove the obstacles standing in the way of Baltimore’s recovery, and recognize that these regulations are slowing down growth across the country.”
Senator Lee’s legislative efforts, the Baltimore Recovery Act and the Restore the Port of Baltimore Act are designed to provide relief by temporarily exempting the port from federal regulations that are currently slowing recovery and reconstruction. In doing so, Senator Lee aims to reduce the overall cost of the recovery effort by eliminating outmoded regulations that will drive up the total cost American taxpayers will pay in order to rebuild the city’s infrastructure.
The Baltimore Recovery Act would:
Exempt any vessel arriving or departing from the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore from Jones Act requirements for five years.
The Jones Act prohibits non-U.S.-flagged ships from traveling between U.S. ports. By allowing foreign vessels to participate in shipping and reconstruction efforts, aid can be delivered more cost-effectively and promptly.
For bill text, click HERE
The Restore the Port of Baltimore Act would:
Exempt any vessel arriving or departing from the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore from the Foreign Dredge Act of 1906 requirements for five years.
The Foreign Dredge Act of 1906 restricts dredging operations to U.S.-flagged vessels, which has led to outdated equipment and inflated costs due to lack of competition. Permitting foreign dredge vessels to operate in the port will accelerate and reduce the cost of reconstruction and cleanup efforts.
