Senator Kelly Pushes Maritime Revival Bill for Economic Security

Key Details Senator Mark Kelly introduced the bipartisan SHIPS for America Act in April 2025 to overhaul U.S. maritime strategy. The legislation, co-sponsored by Republican and Democratic lawmakers, aims to strengthen American competitiveness in global shipping and rebuild domestic shipbuilding capacity. Why It Matters More than 80 percent of goods imported into the U.S. arrive by sea, making maritime infrastructure critical to economic security. Currently, fewer than 100 U.S.-flag vessels operate in international commerce, while over 99 percent of cargo ships at American ports are foreign-owned and built. The Competitive Gap China operates more than 5,500 vessels in international commerce and controls 62 percent of the global merchant vessel order book. American shipyards hold less than 1 percent of global orders. Chinese entities have invested hundreds of billions in strategic ports worldwide, giving them significant leverage in global trade. Kelly's Background The Arizona senator brings personal maritime experience, having served as a Merchant Marine officer and Navy pilot. His grandfather served on a Liberty ship during World War 2. Kelly emphasized that a coherent national maritime strategy is overdue and essential for American economic independence.