Propeller Club Requests Congress' Support of U.S. Merchant Marine

In a letter to various U.S. senators and representatives, the International Propeller Club of the United States expressed deep concern about the future of the U.S. Merchant Marine. 

The proposed legislative changes to food aid programs, along with the underfunding of the Maritime Security Program (MSP), heavily undermine U.S. maritime policy. The MSP is facing removal of ships due to the government's budget issues and sequestration - also resulting in the loss of thousands of American jobs and threatening national security. In order to avoid these losses, the MSP must be fully funded at the Congressionally authorized $186 million level to maintain the 60-ship fleet.

Food aid programs also support another 40,000 domestic jobs that would be eliminated by the Administration's proposed reform. Food for Peace benefits the American economy, and alleviates food shortages overseas.

The letter concludes with advice to the legistlators, "By voting to preserve the MSP and food aid programs, you support the U.S. maritime industry and American jobs."

To read the full letter, click HERE.