The Shipbuilding and Harbor Infrastructure for Prosperity and Security for America Act, the SHIPS Act, is legislation that will help to rebuild America’s shipbuilding capacity. The legislation would strengthen domestic shipyards, modernize ports and harbor infrastructure and create long-term demand for U.S.-built ships. For Boilermakers, that means more work opportunities, stronger apprenticeship programs and the preservation of the highly skilled union workforce that keeps this country moving.
The SHIPS Act would establish a Maritime Security Trust Fund, encourage construction of commercial vessels in U.S. shipyards, invest in repair facilities, workforce development and mariner training. In addition, it would provide long-term stability the domestic shipbuilding industry has lacked for decades.
For decades, the United States has fallen behind foreign competitors in shipbuilding, leaving the nation increasingly dependent on other countries for commercial vessels and maritime infrastructure. In addition to increasing domestic supply chains, this legislation would help create stable careers for skilled tradespeople while reinforcing national security. Every new vessel, shipyard expansion and infrastructure upgrade represents hours of work for union craftsmen and women. In supporting this legislation, Boilermakers are advocating for family-supporting wages and the future of union labor in this country.
The SHIPS Act has gained bipartisan support in both the House and Senate and aligns closely with the administration’s broader Maritime Action Plan. Read the joint statement sent to Congress.
