Congressman Garamendi Urges Use of American Maritime Assets for Any Future Crude Oil Exports

WASHINGTON, DC – September 17, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, CA), Ranking Member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, wrote a letter urging Congress to enhance American national security by adopting provisions requiring the use of American ships and crews whenever the U.S. exports crude oil. The House of Representatives is currently considering H.R.702, which would lift the longstanding ban on exports of American crude oil. Under current law, exports of North Slope Alaskan oil are exempted from the ban under certain circumstances. Any such oil is required to be exported on U.S. flagged ships, with at least 75% of the crew being U.S. citizens.

“If Congress chooses to lift the ban on exporting American crude, we must maximize the benefit to our national security in the process,” said Congressman Garamendi. “Replicating the model we use for Alaska North Slope oil exports will preserve our U.S.-flag fleet, provide jobs for American mariners, and promote our domestic ship-building industry. Adopting these commonsense requirements will improve our security and our economy.”

Garamendi has made it a priority on his subcommittee to ensure that American energy exports are carried on American ships. He has also been a longtime champion for promoting the use of American ships whenever the U.S. exports Liquid Natural Gas (LNG), which will further national security interests by promoting maritime readiness.