Congressman Mike Ezell, along with Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), introduced H.R. 4993, a bipartisan bill designed to maximize private investment in infrastructure for cargo ports and support American manufacturing jobs.

H.R. 4993 would expand the Capital Construction Fund (CCF) program to allow Marine Terminal Operators (MTOs) to use a tax-deferred account to purchase American-made cargo handling equipment.

"Our legislation helps modernize the infrastructure at America's ports and harbors and strengthens our supply chains," said Congressman Ezell. "At the same time, it will support economic growth both at our ports in South Mississippi and in manufacturing across our state. I'm grateful to Congressman Carter for partnering with me on this common-sense legislation."

“I’m proud to lead the bipartisan H.R. 4993 with Congressman Ezell," said Congressman Carter. "These improvements to the CCF will allow for MTOs to have more leeway and leverage over their operation, giving them more opportunity to create good jobs and promote environmental sustainability on our waterways. This will give waterfront employees, coastal communities, and port economies the resources they need to succeed.”

“NAWE’s members are thrilled to see bipartisan legislation introduced that supports marine terminal operators around the country who are committed to providing a healthy and safe work environment," said Rob Murray, President of the National Association of Waterfront Employers. "MTOs make large capital investments in specialized cargo handling equipment that is operated by dedicated waterfront workers and built by highly skilled labor in small, rural towns across the country.  This legislation will support economic growth and create domestic manufacturing jobs from coast to coast. NAWE calls on Congress to support the proposed amendment to CCF to include cargo handling equipment.”

The CCF program has been used by U.S. vessel owners to combat foreign nations' advantages in shipbuilding and international trade for over 50 years. Pre-tax money is deposited into a CCF and can then be withdrawn to cover construction, repair, and acquisition costs. The federal government recoups the deferred taxes at the end of the vessel's life.

The legislation to add cargo handling equipment to the CCF program has been referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Congressmen Ezell and Carter serve together on that committee.