Featured MarEx Print Article: Washington Insider with Winston & Strawns Larry Kiern

Washington attorney and MarEx columnist weighs in on a variety of controversial subjects. This month's column concentrates on certain maritime aspects of the nation's economic stimulus plan and the EPA's new Vessel General Permit for vessels operating in the United States.

Kiern says, “With the November elections behind us, the nation’s attention is firmly fixed on action to stimulate America’s economy. The loss of over two million American jobs in the last year means that domestic unemployment could reach double digits without swift and effective action. Conservative and progressive economists alike urged the new Obama Administration and 111th Congress to move swiftly to enact an enormous stimulus package. Unlike the years 1930 and 1931, when America’s economy cratered amidst uncertainty about what to do and stubborn ideological opposition to government intervention, there was unanimous agreement this time around that strong government action is necessary. As President Obama’s new chief economist, Lawrence Summers, wrote recently, “In this crisis, doing too little poses a greater risk than doing too much.”