Press Releases

Congressmen Mike Ezell (R-MS04) and Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA02) introduced H.R. 3842, the Strengthening American Maritime Dominance (SAMDA) Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at bolstering investment in American cargo ports and revitalizing domestic manufacturing jobs.

The Strengthening American Maritime Dominance (SAMDA) Act will enhance federal support for owners or those who lease American-flagged vessels to invest in critical infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports—essential gateways for the nation's commerce—and ensure that investments directly benefit American workers and manufacturers. The expansion of the Capital Construction Fund will allow for the investment into cargo handling equipment, whether it’s land-based equipment, marine terminals, port landside infrastructure, or more related to the lifting and or movement of cargo.

“Strong ports mean a strong economy,” Ezell said. “This bill is about smart investment—making sure our ports have the modern infrastructure they need to move goods efficiently, support American manufacturing, and protect thousands of jobs. Mississippi’s Gulf Coast depends on reliable, well-equipped port facilities not only for trade but for the livelihood of our communities. I’m proud to work across the aisle with Congressman Carter to deliver real results for our workers, our economy, and our national security, while helping build the backbone of American industry and keeping our supply chains secure.”

“This legislation allows our ports, the economic engine of Louisiana, to upgrade their facilities with American-made infrastructure, strengthening our economy and national security.  This will give our maritime businesses and workers the necessary resources to expand their operations and prosper. I want to thank my colleague Mike Ezell for leading this bipartisan effort with me,” Carter said.

The legislation is designed to:

• Increase targeted investment in infrastructure at cargo ports across the U.S.,

• Prioritize funding for projects that support American manufacturing and job creation,

• Enhance the competitiveness of U.S. ports in global trade,

• Improve supply chain efficiency and resilience,

• Ensure stability and growth of the U.S. marine merchant fleet.

Ezell emphasized that the bill will help communities like those along the Mississippi Gulf Coast attract new business and grow the industrial workforce.

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