| Print | Close Window | AMO Currents - Posted: June 28, 2013 |
Foxx unanimously confirmed as secretary of transportation
"I congratulate Mayor Foxx on his Senate confirmation," said Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller (D-WV). "The unanimous votes by the Senate and Commerce Committee convey our confidence in Mayor Foxx as the right person to lead the Transportation Department. I look forward to working closely with him on our greatest infrastructure challenges - from rebuilding ports and bridges to making our roads safer. I hope Mayor Foxx will be the broker we need to break the partisan gridlock so we can make critical investments that will preserve and strengthen our nation's infrastructure."
The Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee conducted Foxx's confirmation hearing May 22. Responding to questions regarding the Jones Act and U.S. maritime industry submitted for the record by three senators following the confirmation hearing, Foxx established positive positions on key aspects of U.S. maritime policy.
In one response, Foxx wrote: "If confirmed, I would support the Jones Act and the programs available to maintain the strength of our maritime industry, including proper funding and administration of the Maritime Security Program. The America's Marine Highways program also could be used to offer an important new market for Jones Act vessels. I would work closely with the Department of Defense, industry, and labor to monitor the health of the U.S.-flag fleet, facilitate the retention of vessels and mariners, and develop a national sealift strategy that ensures the long term viability of the U.S. merchant marine as a naval auxiliary and as a U.S. presence in international trade. I would work to ensure the viability of the cargo preference programs by providing efficient administration and regulation, while gaining a broader base of support through education and a transparent approach to enforcement. I would continue to promote the education and preparation of individuals entering the maritime workforce through the U.S. merchant marine academy and by providing assistance to the six state maritime academies."
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