The US Senate yesterday passed the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, as the House of Representatives did in December. Now the two versions of the bill – the Senate’s and the House’s – will need to be reviewed and differences resolved, before a single version can go to President Biden for signing, reports the Loadstar.
Leveling the playing field for American farmers
Senator John Thune, co-sponsor of the legislation with Senator Amy Klobuchar, said the legislation, “would level the playing field for American farmers, exporters and consumers by making it harder for ocean carriers to unreasonably refuse goods that are ready to export at US ports. Especially with record inflation in prices of goods, this legislation would also benefit consumers by promoting the fluidity and efficiency of the supply chain.”
Klobuchar emphasised the legislation’s expected positive impacts on port congestion and shipping costs. “Ocean carriers that are mostly foreign-owned have reported record profits. This legislation will help American exporters get their goods to market in a timely manner for a fair price,” she said.
A new rule-making authority
The act would strengthen the investigatory and enforcement authority of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) and give the agency a new rule-making authority.
Ocean common carriers would be required to report to the FMC each calendar quarter on total import and export tonnage and TEUs (loaded/empty) for each ship that calls at US ports.
On March 22, the World Shipping Council issued a statement saying that the Ocean Shipping Reform Act “addresses none of the root causes of the US landside congestion.” The Council noted that “import congestion is also consuming the capacity and space needed to ensure the uninterrupted flow of US exports.” According to the WSC, the House version of the bill “would make existing congestion worse.”
Did you subscribe to our daily Newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe
Source: The Loadstar
