Boustany and Cassidy Fight to Keep Louisiana Waterways Competitive

Statement

Congressman Charles W. Boustany, Jr., M.D., (R-South Louisiana) issued the following statement after he and Congressman Bill Cassidy (R-Baton Rouge) introduced an amendment to the Energy & Water Appropriations bill that would direct $1 million from the administrative account of the Department of Energy to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Operation and Maintenance (O&M) account.

Similar legislative language to Boustany's Realize America's Maritime Promise (RAMP) Act was included in the conference report of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) passed earlier this year. This measure provides a pathway for the government to use 100% of funds generated by the cargo tax and deposited into the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HTMF) to be used for harbor maintenance and dredging.

Boustany said:"Our waterways are critical economic pathways for Louisiana commerce and our ability to move American goods to the marketplace. Currently, three billion dollars worth of ports and waterways maintenance work is awaiting action because the funds aren't available. We need to make sure the Corps has the tools to do their job.

"Congressman Cassidy and I have introduced a fiscally responsible, common sense amendment that helps to fund port maintenance while reflecting its critical place in supporting Louisiana jobs. I'm proud to stand with Congressman Cassidy to fight for expanded trade, higher wages, and more good-paying jobs for Louisianans."

Cassidy said: "Strengthening our ports and waterway infrastructure is critical to our energy security and Louisiana's economy. In Louisiana, billion dollar liquid natural gas (LNG) export terminal projects have been announced. This will create thousands of jobs. These projects, and the jobs that come with them, is why we must ensure our channels are well maintained and properly dredged. The Cassidy-Boustany amendment helps increase the funding to accomplish this."

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