US Representatives Nanette Barragán and Troy A. Carter, Sr., along with Senator Chris Van Hollen, on Friday (26 June) reintroduced the Next Generation Shipping Act.
The legislation would create a USD 1 billion per year programme through the Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) to develop the next generation of clean shipping technology and infrastructure.
The lawmakers said the bill would help to address harmful pollution that comes from the shipping industry, a major but often unrecognised source of greenhouse gas emissions and port pollution.
Through the development and usage of new technologies— such as zero-emission ships, cleaner marine fuels, and better port equipment— the programme seeks to protect the health of port and coastal communities, and help the US reduce its climate pollution.
They added that the bill would also help the United States keep up with other countries in Europe and Asia that are already investing heavily in clean shipping technology. The bill would ensure that the U.S. leads in the future of shipping, rather than rely on technology from other countries.
“Shipping plays a vital role in our economy, and at the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, but it should not come at the expense of the health of our families,” said Rep. Barragán.
“The Next Generation Shipping Act is about investing in cleaner technologies, supporting American jobs, making sure the United States leads in the future of maritime innovation, all while making sure we do so in a way that preserves public health. By acting now, we can protect our communities, strengthen our economy, and build a more sustainable shipping industry for generations to come.”
“The Next Generation Shipping Act is forward-thinking legislation that will help revitalise the U.S. maritime industry and boost our economic competitiveness. As the federal government looks to expand commercial shipbuilding capacity, the U.S. must invest in cleaner ships and technologies to compete globally,” said Antonio Santos, Federal Climate Policy Director, Pacific Environment.
“The bill provides much-needed funding to position the US to be a leader in the development of next-generation vessel technologies and sustainable maritime fuels, while creating good-paying jobs and supporting workforce training. We thank Representative Barragán, Representative Carter, and Senator Van Hollen for introducing this important legislation and call on Congress to pass this bill to spur the market for building the advanced ships of the future.”
Photo credit: william william on Unsplash
Published: 30 June, 2026
