AMO Currents - Maritime Security Program authorized through 2025

AMO Currents - Posted: January 18, 2011

Maritime Security Program authorized through 2025

President Obama has signed into law legislation extending the Maritime Security Program through fiscal year 2025. The extension was included in national defense authorization legislation for fiscal year 2011, one of the last items handled by the outgoing 111th Congress.

The reauthorization of the program through 2025 is only one element in ensuring the MSP and the fleet of 60 ships it supports can continue uninterrupted operations. Each year, Congress must appropriate funding for the program.

"The budget will loom behind the effort of our union's Washington staff as they promote funding of the Maritime Security Program at the authorized level," said AMO National President Tom Bethel. "Without a direct MSP appropriation in each budget cycle, the authorized lifespan of the program is a moot point."

The legislation extending the program's authorization through 2025 (H.R. 6523) was sponsored by former U.S. Rep. Ike Skelton (D-MO), who served as chairman of the House Committee on Armed Services in the 111th Congress.

Designed to serve U.S. national security and defense transportation needs, the MSP maintains military access to commercial tonnage and intermodal infrastructure, and allows the military to move equipment and goods quickly and efficiently at minimal cost. All 60 MSP vessels are U.S.-flagged and manned by U.S. citizens. AMO represents all licensed officers working aboard 15 ships in the MSP fleet.