Bill > HR2593

This bill authorizes appropriations for the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) for fiscal years 2018 and 2019, and includes several other provisions. Specifically, it: 1) Authorizes $28,012,310 for fiscal year 2018 and $28,544,543 for fiscal year 2019 for the FMC. 2) Defines "port services" and prohibits ocean common carriers from negotiating with providers of port services (except for towing vessel services) without advance notice to the FMC. 3) Allows the FMC to consider competition factors when determining if an agreement would "substantially lessen competition in the purchasing of port services." 4) Expands reporting requirements to marine terminal operators and ocean transportation intermediaries. 5) Requires ocean transportation intermediaries to be licensed and maintain financial responsibility. 6) Prohibits ocean common carriers from participating in certain agreements without an FMC exemption. 7) Modifies the Fishing Safety Grant program and the Small Shipyard Grant program. 8) Clarifies that fishing permits are not subject to maritime liens and are governed solely by the laws under which they are issued. 9) Allows the Secretary of Transportation to designate certain maritime training entities as "Centers of Excellence" and provide them with assistance.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2593/all-info