Celebrating National Maritime Day in Florida
On May 22, National Maritime Day, Florida Secretary of Commerce Laura DiBella met with representatives from the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) and the Florida Maritime Partnership in Jacksonville. Together, they acknowledged the significant economic contributions the more than 65,000 men and women of the American maritime industry bring to both the nation and the Sunshine State.
A Robust Maritime Industry Fosters Economic Development
Laura DiBella emphasized that the U.S. would not be the same without its thriving maritime industry. Recognizing its vital role in moving goods and driving economic development, she declared that there aren’t enough planes, trains, or trucks on this planet to sustain the cargo volume transported by ships. As such, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of this industry, which Enterprise Florida is proud to celebrate on National Maritime Day.
Contributing to Florida’s Prosperity and Job Creation
Among those who gathered with Florida Commerce Secretary Laura DiBella to celebrate National Maritime Day in Jacksonville were JAXPORT, Crowley Maritime, and TOTE Maritime representatives. Christopher Smith of TOTE stressed the domestic maritime industry’s significant impact on Florida’s economy, contributing nearly $15 billion annually. Furthermore, the industry supports over 68,000 domestic maritime jobs and almost $4 billion in related labor income in Florida and Puerto Rico.
Praising the Men and Women of Florida’s Maritime Industry
David Wood of Crowley, Florida Maritime Partnership’s vice president, highlighted the efforts of more than 65,000 Floridian maritime professionals who work diligently to keep cargo moving on American-owned and operated vessels. He also emphasized American maritime’s vital role in Florida’s economic and national security.
The Role of the Jones Act in Florida’s Energy Security
Susan Allan of the Florida Maritime Partnership and Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) underscored the Jones Act’s vital role in ensuring Florida’s energy security. The law requires cargo transportation between all U.S. points using American-built, crewed, and owned vessels. As a result, 90% of Florida’s petroleum products are transported by ship through their ports.
Supporting Economic Opportunities Through Shipbuilding
Eastern Shipbuilding Group’s CEO, Joey D’Isernia, expressed pride in contributing to Florida’s growing maritime industry. As the prime for the Offshore Patrol Cutter, their company supports more than 200 businesses across nearly half the United States. This industry, he stressed, must continue to innovate and promote national and economic security.
A Diverse and Reliable Maritime Industry
Florida’s domestic maritime industry is incredibly diverse, encompassing vessel operating companies, ship construction and repair yards, and maritime industry workers and retirees.
Notably, the industry also provides reliable service for Puerto Rico. The country benefits from superior carrier performance, stability, and security thanks to the Jones Act. Domestic operators have recently invested nearly $1 billion, resulting in modern, state-of-the-art vessels that significantly impact Puerto Rico’s economy and support over 2,000 jobs on the island.
Florida’s maritime industry plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and ensuring national security, contributing significantly to the well-being of the state and the nation.
