Page 20: of Marine News Magazine (September 2020)

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COLUMN

Washington Watch:

Congress Eyes Maritime

Economic Relief

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security sector – was noticeably absent from the free ? ow of federal (CARES) Act enacted in March 2020, provided relief to nu- funding in the CARES Act or the subsequent Paycheck Pro- merous industries impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. tection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act.

Air carriers, for example, bene? tted from the creation of a On July 9, 2020, Chairman of the House Committee $25 billion Treasury direct loan program, in addition to a on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D- $25 billion worker support program that provides a mix of Ore.) and Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Coast grants and loans to cover employee wages, salaries and ben- Guard and Maritime Transportation Sean Patrick Maloney e? ts. In addition, Congress waived the small business af? li- (D-N.Y.) sought to correct Congress’ error through the in- ation rules for businesses in the accommodation and food troduction of the Maritime Transportation System Emer- service industries to increase the availability of Paycheck Pro- gency Relief Act (MTSERA). In introducing the legislation, tection Program loans to such businesses. The CARES Act Chairman DeFazio properly noted, “The men and women also provided supplemental appropriations to support other who work within the Maritime Transportation System are existing programs, including $9.5 billion to assist agricultur- part of our Nation’s essential workforce that has been key to al producers, $300 million to support ? shermen, and $150 keeping critical goods moving during the global pandemic, million to support arts organizations, museums and librar- and for that, we owe them a debt of gratitude.” He added ies. However, the maritime industry – including the offshore that the legislation sought to “give the maritime sector the © Ruslan / Adobe Stock

September 2020 20 MN