WILL THE STIMULUS PACKAGE HELP THE MARITIME INDUSTRY?

摘要

Although it is premature to predict the impact on the maritime community, it is encouraging to see that maritime has a seat at the table. Some of the funds, such as the highway funds, have already been doled out to the states. States, in turn, will create their own means for allocating funds internally. Competition will be fierce for the $100 million (and supplemental $17.5 million) in small shipyard grants. Companies will clearly have to make the case for yard improvements that can enhance their competitiveness and quickly create new jobs. The PTC extension will be self-executing, but the development of meaningful marine renewable energy projects will likely await further legislative and economic developments. It is clearly in the interest of shipping companies to participate in the DERA program, above, because, as we now know, EPA is looking to strengthen the regulations for capping marine emissions.