[Senate Hearing 119-437]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
S. Hrg. 119-437
NOMINATIONS TO THE MARITIME
ADMINISTRATION, THE FEDERAL MARITIME
COMMISSION AND THE NATIONAL OCEANIC
AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
=======================================================================
HEARING
before the
COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE,
SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
UNITED STATES SENATE
ONE HUNDRED NINETEENTH CONGRESS
FIRST SESSION
__________
OCTOBER 22, 2025
__________
Printed for the use of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation
[GRAPHIC NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Available online: http://www.govinfo.gov
______
U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE
63-981 PDF WASHINGTON : 2026
SENATE COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND TRANSPORTATION
ONE HUNDRED NINETEENTH CONGRESS
FIRST SESSION
TED CRUZ, Texas, Chairman
JOHN THUNE, South Dakota MARIA CANTWELL, Washington,
ROGER WICKER, Mississippi Ranking
DEB FISCHER, Nebraska AMY KLOBUCHAR, Minnesota
JERRY MORAN, Kansas BRIAN SCHATZ, Hawaii
DAN SULLIVAN, Alaska EDWARD MARKEY, Massachusetts
MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee GARY PETERS, Michigan
TODD YOUNG, Indiana TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin
TED BUDD, North Carolina TAMMY DUCKWORTH, Illinois
ERIC SCHMITT, Missouri JACKY ROSEN, Nevada
JOHN CURTIS, Utah BEN RAY LUJAN, New Mexico
BERNIE MORENO, Ohio JOHN HICKENLOOPER, Colorado
TIM SHEEHY, Montana JOHN FETTERMAN, Pennsylvania
SHELLEY MOORE CAPITO, West Virginia ANDY KIM, New Jersey
CYNTHIA LUMMIS, Wyoming LISA BLUNT ROCHESTER, Delaware
Brad Grantz, Republican Staff Director
Nicole Christus, Republican Deputy Staff Director
Lila Harper Helms, Staff Director
Melissa Porter, Deputy Staff Director
C O N T E N T S
----------
Page
Hearing held on October 22, 2025................................. 1
Statement of Senator Cruz........................................ 1
Statement of Senator Cantwell.................................... 2
Statement of Senator Fischer..................................... 82
Statement of Senator Moreno...................................... 83
Statement of Senator Rosen....................................... 85
Statement of Senator Young....................................... 87
Statement of Senator Klobuchar................................... 89
Statement of Senator Sullivan.................................... 91
Statement of Senator Peters...................................... 93
Statement of Senator Markey...................................... 95
Letter dated October 20, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Greg Morrison, Executive Vice President,
National Water Resources Association....................... 99
Letter dated October 6, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Jimi Netniss, General Manager, Modesto
Irrigation District and Brad Koehn, General Manager,
Turlock Irrigation District................................ 99
Letter dated dated October 9, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon.
Maria Cantwell from Zippy Duvall, President, American Farm
Bureau Federation.......................................... 100
Letter dated October 20, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Federico Barajas, Executive Director, San
Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority....................... 101
Letter dated October 21, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Mark Yacucci, President, National States
Geographic Information Council (NSGIC)..................... 102
Letter dated October 20, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Ian Lyle, Director of Federal Relations,
Association of California Water Agencies................... 103
Letter dated October 20, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from John Copple, Owner and Chief Executive
Officer, The Sanborn Map Company, Inc...................... 104
Letter dated September 22, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon.
Maria Cantwell from Paul Arrington, Executive Director and
General Counsel, Idaho Water Users Association (IWUA)...... 105
Letter to Senators from Cary S. Davis, President and CEO,
American Association of Port Authorities................... 106
Letter dated September 17, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon.
Maria Cantwell from Adam Vokac, President, Marine
Engineers' Beneficial Association.......................... 106
Letter dated September 9, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz from Captain
Sam Stephenson, J.D., President Emeritus, Florida Harbor
Pilots Association......................................... 107
Letter dated August 17, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Marco Poisler, UTC Overseas COO--Global
Energy & Capital Projects, UTC Overseas, Inc............... 108
Letter dated September 9, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon.
Maria Cantwell from William P. Doyle, Chief Executive
Officer, Dredging Contractors of America................... 109
Letter dated September 19, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon.
Maria Cantwell from Joseph Edward Farrell III, Chief
Executive Officer, Resolve Marine.......................... 109
Letter dated August 14, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Jesus Mejias, President, ECMC................ 110
Letter dated October 7, 2025 to Hon. Ted Cruz and Hon. Maria
Cantwell from Representative Mary Dye, Washington State
House of Representatives, 9th Legislative District......... 111
Witnesses
Hon. Mark Kelly, U.S. Senator from Arizona....................... 4
Hon. James Risch, U.S. Senator from Idaho........................ 5
Stephen M. Carmel, Nominee to be Administrator, Maritime
Administration................................................. 7
Prepared statement........................................... 8
Biographical information..................................... 9
Laura DiBella, Nominee to be a Commissioner, Federal Maritime
Commission..................................................... 30
Prepared statement........................................... 31
Biographical information..................................... 33
Robert Harvey, Nominee to be a Commissioner, Federal Maritime
Commission..................................................... 46
Prepared statement........................................... 48
Biographical information..................................... 49
Timothy Petty, Nominee to be Assistant Secretary of Commerce for
Oceans and Atmosphere, National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration................................................. 62
Prepared statement........................................... 63
Biographical information..................................... 64
Appendix
Response to written questions submitted to Stephen M. Carmel by:
Hon. Ted Cruz................................................ 113
Hon. Roger Wicker............................................ 114
Hon. Dan Sullivan............................................ 115
Hon. Maria Cantwell.......................................... 116
Hon. Edward Markey........................................... 120
Hon. Tammy Baldwin........................................... 120
Hon. Tammy Duckworth......................................... 121
Response to written question submitted to Laura DiBella by:
Hon. Dan Sullivan............................................ 123
Hon. Marsha Blackburn........................................ 125
Hon. Ted Budd................................................ 125
Hon. Maria Cantwell.......................................... 125
Hon. Tammy Duckworth......................................... 127
Response to written questions submitted to Robert Harvey by:
Hon. Marsha Blackburn........................................ 127
Hon. Ted Budd................................................ 127
Hon. Maria Cantwell.......................................... 127
Hon. Tammy Duckworth......................................... 129
Response to written questions submitted to Timothy Petty by:
Hon. Roger Wicker............................................ 129
Hon. Dan Sullivan............................................ 130
Hon. Marsha Blackburn........................................ 133
Hon. Maria Cantwell.......................................... 134
Hon. Edward Markey........................................... 137
Hon. Tammy Duckworth......................................... 138
Hon. John Hickenlooper....................................... 138
NOMINATIONS TO THE MARITIME
ADMINISTRATION, THE FEDERAL MARITIME
COMMISSION AND THE NATIONAL OCEANIC
AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRATION
----------
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2025
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
The Committee met, pursuant to notice, at 10:30 a.m., in
room SR-253, Russell Senate Office Building, Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman of the Committee, presiding.
Present: Senators Cruz, Wicker, Fischer, Sullivan, Young,
Moreno, Sheehy, Cantwell, Klobuchar, Markey, Peters, Rosen, and
Fetterman.
OPENING STATEMENT OF HON. TED CRUZ,
U.S. SENATOR FROM TEXAS
Chairman Cruz. Good morning. The Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation will come to order. I
want to welcome two of our colleagues, Senator Risch, Senator
Kelly. We are glad to have you both joining us in this
Committee, at least for a few moments at the opening.
Today, we will be hearing from four nominees: Stephen
Carmel, nominee for Administrator of the U.S. Maritime
Administration; Laura DiBella and Robert Harvey, nominees for
Commissioners of the Federal Maritime Commission; and Timothy
Petty, nominee for Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans
and Atmosphere and Deputy Administrator of the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration. Congratulations to each of you.
Let's begin with Mr. Petty, who would serve as Deputy
Administrator of NOAA. A geoscientist and an engineer, Mr.
Petty has spent more than two decades on Capitol Hill, where he
is currently a Senior Professional Staff Member for the House
Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. During the
first Trump administration, Mr. Petty served as Assistant
Secretary for Water and Science in the Department of the
Interior. As second-in-command at NOAA, he will draw on his
policy expertise to manage U.S. fisheries programs and to
protect coastal and ocean resources.
Next are the two Republican nominees for the Federal
Maritime Commission, Laura DiBella and Robert Harvey. Ms.
DiBella previously served as Port Director of the Port of
Fernandina, Executive Director of the Florida Harbor Pilots
Association, and head of Florida's state-level economic
development organization. Mr. Harvey is an attorney with 30-
plus years navigating complex regulatory schemes and promoting
economic development. A former U.S. Navy JAG officer, he
currently leads two public economic development corporations in
Florida.
Finally, Stephen Carmel, who will draw on decades of
experience to advise the Secretary of Transportation on Federal
maritime policy as Administrator of the Maritime
Administration. A graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy,
Mr. Carmel served on U.S. vessels as a deck officer and
shipmaster before joining Maersk Line, Limited, the largest
operator of U.S. flagged ships. He is well versed in maritime
operations and security, having sat on the Board of Advisors
for the Merchant Marine Academy and the Chief of Naval
Operations Executive Panel. Mr. Carmel will support Secretary
Duffy's efforts to fortify U.S. maritime security,
shipbuilding, and infrastructure.
Like our nominee, I am concerned that China's maritime
industrial base dwarfs our own. That is why I look forward to
the Administration's forthcoming Maritime Action Plan, which
will address this geopolitical challenge. At the same time, I
continue to believe we need a maritime strategy focused on
attracting capital and removing regulatory barriers, not simply
picking winners and losers. American shipyards can compete
globally without heavy-handed protectionism, but only if they
lean into nascent industries like seabed mining and nuclear-
powered shipping, not those where we are at a distinct
comparative disadvantage.
Thank you to our nominees for joining us today. I am eager
to hear how each of you will approach Federal maritime policy.
And with that I recognize Ranking Member Cantwell for her
opening remarks.
STATEMENT OF HON. MARIA CANTWELL,
U.S. SENATOR FROM WASHINGTON
Senator Cantwell. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Carmel, Ms.
DiBella, Mr. Harvey, Mr. Petty, congratulations on your
nominations, and it is good to see our two colleagues here,
Senator Risch and Senator Kelly. I certainly have enjoyed
working with Dr. Petty and Senator Risch on the Columbia River
Treaty for many years. I know firsthand of his legislative
skill set, so congratulations on this nomination.
Today, we want to discuss the concrete steps our Nation is
taking to invest in our shipyards, our ports, our workforce in
the efforts to build larger ships in the United States. These
investments are not just important international trade issues
for the United States. These are the kinds of investments that
are needed to build our future maritime workforce, our economy,
and support our national defense.
The good news is there is strong bipartisan support on this
Committee for American shipbuilding, but we need to ensure that
these investments we authorize will be implemented by this
Administration. I look forward to discussing with the nominees
here how we can accomplish that.
Mr. Carmel, I certainly enjoyed our conversation yesterday.
I truly believe that you have a vision for what needs to
happen, and I appreciate that. You are nominated to be the
Administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration, the agency
responsible for fostering, promoting, and developing the U.S.
maritime industry. And you clearly have relevant experience,
just starting at the Merchant Marine Academy and continuing as
a Deck Officer Master on U.S.-flagged vessels, and your senior
positions at Maersk. So, I certainly believe you have a keen
view of what needs to be done.
I believe this experience will serve you well, and I know
that you have expressed concerns about the deterioration of the
U.S. maritime, as you call it, ``ecosystem.'' I share that
word. It is an ecosystem. And just like other ecosystems we
have had to invest in, I look forward to asking you questions
about how critical that is for supply chain issues for the
United States of America, when supply chain issues have become
a dominant issue. COVID proved that to us, and now we have to
think about it and how it relates to very strategic assets and
resources. Senator Risch and I have been partners on a fusion
strategy, and certainly fusion is one of those issues where the
supply chain will be critical.
Next, Ms. DiBella and Mr. Harvey, it is good to have you
here at the Committee and I see that we have two other Federal
Maritime Commissioners here, so thank you guys--oh, three.
Sorry. Sorry. Thank you for that. Thank you. This speaks to the
Commission's important jurisdiction over ports and
international ocean shipping, and charged with the protection
and interests of U.S. shipping and regulating licenses.
The FMC, while not a household word, it is certainly
playing a pivotal role for us, as again we saw during COVID.
Importantly, Congress created the Federal Maritime Commission,
and I expect Commissioners to maintain this independence. That
is to say despite various administrations' efforts to undermine
the agency, we want it to continue to remain strong.
Ms. DiBella, your service as the first female Secretary of
Commerce for the State of Florida, and your tenure as Executive
Director of the Florida Harbor Pilots Association certainly
come with some very relevant experience, and I appreciate that.
Mr. Harvey, I have not had a chance to visit with you, so I
look forward to hearing more about your Navy JAG experience,
and I hope you will address your view about the Federal FMC
this morning and what you think needs to happen.
What I would say to you is that we need to continue to be
proactive, that as a more global economy and economic
opportunities are outside the United States, and so much of the
concentration is with foreign carriers--now we are going to
lean on Mr. Carmel, to help change that--but in the meantime,
how do we make sure that there are fair policies and that the
Commission is doing its job in protecting consumers? We do not
want U.S. shippers' product left on docks, we do not want
unfair practices, and we certainly do not want unfair rates.
Finally, Mr. Petty, as I already mentioned, I am happy to
have worked with you in the past on this important issue of the
Columbia River Treaty. Congratulations on the nomination to the
NOAA Assistant Secretary for Commerce. If confirmed, you will
be responsible for fisheries, habitat, climate resilience, and
many other issues, and I believe that your experience up here
on the Hill will serve you well.
I hope to hear from you how you will succeed in this
environment, especially when it comes to the essential work
that NOAA does supporting healthy fisheries, the 2.3 million
jobs that depend on a seafood industry, and the important
issues of stock assessment? I think this Committee has been
very, very loud and clear about the importance of stock
assessments. You cannot catch fish if you have not done the
stock assessment, and we need the fisheries to continue to
work.
This requires providing NOAA with expertise and resources,
and NOAA has lifted the hiring freeze for some weather
personnel, but what about fisheries personnel? We need to get
the stock assessments done; we need the personnel to do them.
So I know my colleague, Senator Sullivan, when he is here, will
agree with this.
When it comes to protecting our coastal economies,
scientists are not optional. Let's not forget, the President
proposed a 27 percent cut to NOAA's budget, and the agency has
lost at least 576 fisheries staffers, nearly one in five under
this Administration. So I am very, very concerned about that.
They are seeing real impacts from this. For instance, a
number of our stock assessments in New England have been
canceled this year. A 60-day regulatory freeze led to the
overfishing of the Atlantic bluefin tuna off North Carolina,
and in my state, salmon are incredibly important economically
and culturally, and so we depend on NOAA for this long-term
sustainability. I look forward to asking you questions about
that and what you can do to help correct these issues at the
department.
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I again look forward to the
testimony of all the witnesses, and of course, our colleagues
who are here to sing praises on them. Thank you.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you, Senator Cantwell. I will now turn
to our colleague from the great state of Arizona, Senator
Kelly, to introduce Mr. Carmel. Senator Kelly, welcome back to
the Commerce Committee.
STATEMENT OF HON. MARK KELLY,
U.S. SENATOR FROM ARIZONA
Senator Kelly. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Chairman Cruz,
Ranking Member Cantwell, and members of the Committee, thank
you for the opportunity to speak today on the nomination of
Steve Carmel to serve as the Administrator of the Maritime
Administration.
As I know this Committee is painfully aware, the U.S.
maritime industry needs a lot of help. Right now, the U.S.
Federal Government, mostly through the Navy and Coast Guard, is
the primary customer of large--and in the case of the Coast
Guard, not so large--ocean-going vessels built in U.S.
shipyards. And there are only about 80 ships, out of more than
50,000 globally, that fly the U.S. flag in international
commerce. By contrast, China has 5,500 ocean-going merchant
vessels that operate under the Chinese flag. Three in every
four commercial ships built in the next decade will be built in
a Chinese shipyard if we do not do something about it. For
decades, both political parties have made the failed assumption
that we could build our way out of this deficit by just giving
the Navy and Coast Guard additional funding year to year, and
not by actually rethinking how we make the commercial maritime
industry commercially viable in the United States.
We need to do both. We need policy solutions that include
the private sector, and that is why I am here to support Steve
Carmel's nomination for Maritime Administrator.
Unlike his immediate predecessors in this job, Steve will
bring four decades of experience working in the commercial
maritime industry. Steve and I both attended the U.S. Merchant
Marine Academy, not at the same time, but we were also both in
6th Company. After graduating, Steve served aboard U.S.-flagged
merchant vessels as a deck officer and a master for the
Maritime Overseas Corporation and Military Sealift Command. He
became a master, which is the captain of the ship, at just 26
years old. For those who don't know the industry well, that is
incredibly fast. He is a talented guy.
After a decade at sea he transitioned to work ashore for
Maersk Line, Limited and U.S. Marine Management. At a time when
we are facing a shortage of qualified mariners, Steve brings
firsthand knowledge of what it is like to work at sea. He would
be the first Administrator in 20 years to hold an Unlimited
Master's License.
At a time when we need to incentivize ship owners from
around the world to invest in the U.S.-flagged fleet and U.S.
shipyards, Steve will bring a private sector perspective to our
efforts to rebuild the U.S. maritime industry. Steve
understands we need to reform how dated regulations and find
innovative strategies to put more cargo on U.S. flagged
vessels.
At a time when there is bipartisan momentum to rebuild
America'a maritime industry, as indicated by both the SHIPS for
America Act and President Trump's Executive Order on Maritime
Dominance, we need leaders at MARAD who can hit the ground
running on day one. And I believe Steve Carmel is the right
leader for this moment, and can do that. I know that he will
demonstrate his thoughtfulness and depth of knowledge of the
industry at today's hearing, and I hope his nomination will be
quickly advanced. We need him in this job.
The motto at King's Point, our alma mater, is ``Acta Non
Verba--Deeds, Not Words.'' Steve is a leader of action, and it
is my pleasure to introduce him to the Committee today. Thank
you.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you, Senator Kelly, and I appreciate
you bringing a little bit of Latin into this hearing. That is
the level of erudition we try to avoid in the Senate Commerce
Committee.
I now welcome our colleague from the great state of Idaho,
Senator Risch, to introduce Dr. Petty. Senator Risch, welcome
to the Commerce Committee.
STATEMENT OF HON. JAMES RISCH,
U.S. SENATOR FROM IDAHO
Senator Risch. Well, thank you, Chairman Cruz and Ranking
Member Cantwell. Thank you so much for allowing me to speak
here today. It is a real honor and privilege, personally, to
introduce Dr. Tim Petty, who has been nominated to be Assistant
Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere.
Tim was an integral part and member of my staff for many
years and continues to be a trusted friend, and in addition to
that, he comes in from time to time and keeps me up-to-date on
things that are happening that are in his lane, and I truly
appreciate that.
Tim brings a deep and informed understanding of the complex
intersection between water policy and scientific research
through a rare combination of technical expertise and
legislative experience in both houses. Tim's experiences as a
senior legislative staff in both chambers give him holistic
understanding of various water and natural resource challenges
and a long history of working with his colleagues on a
bipartisan basis to solve problems.
He has also served under both President Bush and President
Trump at the Department of the Interior, including serving as
President Trump's first term as the Assistant Secretary for
Water and Science, a post he was confirmed by the Senate
unanimously to. In his role, he oversaw the USGS and the Bureau
of Reclamation, solving Western water issues and collaborating
on an interagency basis with the U.S. Army Corps and NOAA.
Particularly close to home for Ranking Member Cantwell and
I both, Tim has specific experience working in the Columbia
River basin. We have an issue there right now that is
incredibly important to both Senator Cantwell and I and our
constituents in the region. And as I said, it is bipartisan,
and it is incredibly important. In his last stint at the
agency, he represented Interior as part of the United States
negotiating entity for the Columbia River Treaty, and worked
with Senator Cantwell and I both as we represented the
Northwest in the Senate through treaty negotiations.
These have been long--dare I say, Senator Cantwell?--and
difficult and complex. I think we are actually seeing some
light at the end of the tunnel. There is starting to be some
movement. And Senator Cantwell and I have worked on this for
years and years. We have been ably guided by Tim, who has
helped us through this very complex web of negotiations.
In addition to his extraordinary qualifications, what
cannot be overstated is his character. Tim is a true public
servant, and has answered the call time and again to give his
time and talent to the American people. Having worked closely
with Tim since I came to the Senate I can confidently say he
brings thoughtful, measured judgment to every issue he
encounters, treats others with respect, and approaches
leadership roles with humility.
Tim has built a distinguished career in public service, and
is exceptionally well-prepared to serve as the Assistant
Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere. His expertise
and experience will be an incredible asset to the Department of
Commerce and to our country.
Again, Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, thank you
for the Committee's consideration and considering Tim Petty's
nomination. Thank you so much.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you, Senator Risch, and I certainly
appreciated the movie reference to ``A Few Good Men,'' as you
looked up like Jack Nicholson and said, ``What kind of shoddy
operation are you running here,'' with microphones that don't
operate.
Senator Risch. I was more diplomatic than that.
Chairman Cruz. You know, we can't handle the truth. I will
say four staffers have lost their job already in the time since
you said that.
I now recognize Mr. Carmel for his opening statement.
STATEMENT OF STEPHEN CARMEL, NOMINEE TO BE ADMINISTRATOR,
MARITIME ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, and thank you to Senator Kelly for
the kind introduction. Good morning, Chairman Cruz, Ranking
Member Cantwell, and members of the Committee. Thank you for
allowing me to be here today. I am honored to appear before you
as the nominee for the position of Maritime Administrator.
Please permit me to introduce my wife, Alison, a Navy veteran
from a long line of Coast Guard officers, and our sons, John
and Greg, who are here with me today.
I graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Class of
1979, and went to sea immediately thereafter. I sailed
steadily, earned my Master's license, and commanded ships that
sailed every corner of the world. My time at sea was marked by
many more highlights than I could recount here, but perhaps the
most meaningful was my service in the Arctic, an experience
that sparked a lifelong fascination with that region and
inspired much of my later academic work.
After coming ashore, I held a variety of executive
positions with Maersk Line, Limited, the U.S.-flag subsidiary
of one of the world's largest shipping companies, and later
became President of U.S. Marine Management, my current
position, following our acquisition by Maritime Partners, the
leading Jones Act provider of vessel leasing and construction
financing. I also returned to graduate school and collected a
few extra initials along the way.
Throughout my shoreside career, I and my colleagues have
faced many challenges, ranging from two Middle East wars to the
complex logistics of supporting operations in Afghanistan;
revolts in Angola and inland grain movements in Russia; piracy
off Somalia's coast; and even an earthquake and nuclear
disaster in Japan. Those experiences taught me many things, but
two lessons stand out. First, maritime strength depends on
people, and it must be built long before a crisis occurs. And
leadership is about execution, accountability, and partnership.
I have been fortunate to work, both at sea and ashore,
alongside some of the finest men and women this country has to
offer, and I am very proud of all that we accomplished
together. But now, if given the honor of a confirmation, it is
time to take up a new challenge.
We are a formidable naval power, but we are not a true
maritime power. For more than 150 years, we have searched for a
maritime policy that works, even as our industrial capacity has
declined to a point of near irrelevance, both in our ability to
carry our own commerce and the ability to build the ships that
do it. We have outsourced those capabilities and we have
sacrificed much of our independence in the process.
A strong maritime sector is not nostalgia. It is strategy.
It means resilient supply chains we control, credible logistics
for our joint forces, good jobs across our coasts, rivers, and
Great Lakes, and the freedom to move what America needs, when
and where America needs it, under our own flag.
We have done hard things before. With this Committee's
guidance, and in partnership with labor and industry, we can do
them again. We will not be the generation that stood on the
sidelines and passively watched our noble industry die. We will
be the generation that rebuilds it--stronger, smarter, and
ready to answer the call.
If confirmed, I will work in a spirit of partnership to
meet our challenges, and overcome them, uphold the traditions
of my alma mater, and live by its motto, at the risk of Senator
Kelly's repeating them: Acta Non verba--deeds, not words.
Thank you, and I stand by for your questions.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of Mr.
Carmel follow:]
Prepared Statement of Stephen M. Carmel, Nominee to be Administrator,
Maritime Administration
Good morning, Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Members
of the Committee. Thank you for allowing me to be here today. I am
honored to appear before you as the nominee for the position of
Maritime Administrator. Please permit me to introduce my wife, Alison--
a Navy Veteran from a long line of Coast Guard officers--and our sons,
John and Greg, who are here with me today.
I graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, Class of 1979,
and went to sea immediately thereafter. I sailed steadily, earned my
Master's license, and commanded ships that traveled to every corner of
the world. My time at sea was marked by more highlights than I could
recount here, but perhaps the most meaningful was my service in the
Arctic--an experience that sparked a lifelong fascination with that
region and inspired much of my later academic work.
After coming ashore, I held a variety of executive positions with
Maersk Line, Limited--the U.S.-flag subsidiary of one of the world's
largest shipping companies--and later became President of U.S. Marine
Management, my current position, following our acquisition by Maritime
Partners, the leading Jones Act provider of vessel leasing and
construction financing.
I also returned to graduate school and collected a few extra
initials behind my name. Throughout my shoreside career, my colleagues
and I faced challenges ranging from two Middle East wars to the complex
logistics of supporting operations in Afghanistan; revolts in Angola
and inland grain movements in Russia; piracy off Somalia's coast; and
even an earthquake and nuclear disaster in Japan.
Those experiences taught me many things, but two lessons stand out.
First, maritime strength depends on people--and it must be built long
before a crisis occurs. Second, leadership is about execution,
accountability, and partnership.
I have been fortunate to work, both at sea and ashore, alongside
some of the finest men and women this country has to offer, and I am
proud of all that we accomplished together.
Now, if given the honor of confirmation, it is time to take up a
new challenge.
We are a formidable naval power, but we are not yet a true maritime
power. For more than 150 years, we have searched for a maritime policy
that works, even as our industrial capacity has steadily declined--both
in our ability to carry our own commerce and to build the ships that do
it. We have outsourced those capabilities and, with that, much of our
independence.
A strong maritime sector is not nostalgia--it's strategy. It means
resilient supply chains we control; credible logistics for our joint
forces; good jobs across our coasts, rivers, and Great Lakes; and the
freedom to move what America needs, when and where America needs it--
under our own flag.
We have done hard things before. With this Committee's guidance,
and in partnership with labor and industry, we can do them again. We
will not be the generation that stood on the sidelines and passively
watched our noble industry die. We will be the generation that rebuilt
it--stronger, smarter, faster, and ready.
If confirmed, I will work in a spirit of partnership to meet our
challenges, uphold the traditions of my alma mater, and live by its
motto: Acta non verba--deeds, not words.
Thank you, and I stand ready for your questions.
______
a. biographical information
1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Stephen
Michael Carmel.
2. Position to which nominated: Administrator, U.S. Maritime
Administration.
3. Date of Nomination: May 6, 2025.
4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):
Residence: Information not released to the public.
Office: Information not provided.
5. Date and Place of Birth: Washington, DC.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) or domestic partner, and the names and ages of your
children (including stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).
Wife: Alison Parker. Program Manager. On administrative/
terminal leave from Military Sealift Command, U.S. Navy pending
retirement 31 Dec, 2025 (took the Federal buy-out program)
Children: John A. Carmel (24 years old); Stepchildren from
Alison Parker: Gregory E Cyrus (42 years old), Ashley M Cyrus
(46 years old); Stepchild from Maria E. Carmel (died from
cancer in 1997); Stephanie Hemingson-Carmel (approximate age 49
years old) (Lost touch with her when her mother died).
7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
the degree.
B.S., Marine Transportation, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
(1975-1979)
M.B.A., Old Dominion University (1991-1993)
M.A., Economics, Old Dominion University (1994-1996)
Ph.D., International Studies, Old Dominion University (2010-
2018)
All But Dissertation (ABD): Completed course work/
comprehensives but not dissertation.
Advanced Management Program Certificate Program, Ross School of
Business, University of Michigan (2011)
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
President, U.S. Marine Management (spin off From Maersk) (1993-
Present).
Various positions, Maersk Line Limited:
Member, Board of Directors (1997-2005)
Senior Vice President (1997-2023)
Various positions, U.S. Marine Management (subsidiary of
Maersk):
Vice President of Finance (1995-1997)
Program Manager (1989-1995)
Ships officer/Master: Maritime Overseas Corp, Military
Sealift Command (1979-1989)
Note: every position listed is managerial.
9. Attach a copy of your resume. Attached.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above after 18 years of age.
Board of Visitors, U.S. Merchant Marine Academy--Served as an
appointee of President Trump during his first term (2018-2021)
Naval Studies Board, National Academies of Science (Term ended
in 2021)
Chief of Naval Operations Executive Panel (2006-2016)
Marine Board, National Academies of Science (Term ended in
2014)
Hydrographic Services Review Board, NOAA (Term ended in 2014)
Senior Fellow, George Washington University Homeland Security
Policy Institute (2009)
Adjunct Professor of Economics, Old Dominion University (early
2000s time frame).
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution.
Board of Directors, Hampton Roads World Affairs Council (2020-
2025)
Board of Directors, Maersk Line Limited (1997-2005)
Trustee, Old Dominion University Research Foundation
(Approximate dates: 2010-2013)
12. List all memberships you have had after 18 years of age or
currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
affiliated organization, private club, or other membership organization
(You do not have to list your religious affiliation or membership in a
religious house of worship or institution). Include dates of membership
and any positions you have held with any organization. Please note
whether any such club or organization restricts membership on the basis
of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, or disability.
I have never belonged to any organization, including the below
listed, that restricts membership on the basis of sex, race, color,
religion, national origin, age, or disability.
Current:
American Bureau of Shipping
World Affairs Council Hampton Roads Chapter (2020 to present)
Royal United Services Institute (2022 to present)
Chatham House (2022-present)
International Institute for Strategic Studies (2022 to
ppresent)
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy Alumni (1979 to present)
Past:
International Studies Association (2010-2018) (approx.)
American Economic Association (1994-2000) (approx.)
Institute of Management Accountants (1992-1996) (approx.)
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt. No.
14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. None.
15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $200 or more for the past ten years.
Maersk Inc. Political Action Committee, 04/30/2015, $200
During my tenure as an executive with Maersk Line Limited I
contributed to the Maersk Political Action Committee fund as all senior
executives did. I did not control or even input into how the PAC
distributed the money
16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements.
Meritorious Public Service Medal, Awarded by CNO Richardson, 18
Jan, 2017
2009 George Washington University Homeland Security Policy
Institute Senior Fellow
17. List all books, articles, columns, letters to the editor,
Internet blog postings, or other publications you have authored,
individually or with others. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
publication when available.
See Addendum.
18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
speech or presentation when available.
See Addendum provided via separate correspondence.
19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
years, including statements in news articles and radio and podcasts and
television appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position
for which you have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to
each statement when possible. If a link is not available, provide a
digital copy of the statement when available.
Endorsement supporting Ships for America Act, April 2025
Quoted in Wall street Journal Article https://www.wsj.com/
politics/ national-security/why-the-u-s-military-has-to-hitch-
a-ride-on-commercial-ships-
58d0ece9?st=1enwuZ&reflink=article_e-mail_share
I know I was quoted in news articles about Maersk Line Limited
business but do not have specific examples as it was just a routine
part of business
20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible.
Linked In--Stephen Carmel (Active)
X (Twitter)--@StephenCar73193 (Active)
21. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date, committee, and subject
matter of each testimony.
Testimony to Standing Senate Committee on Security and Defense,
Canadian Parliament, 2007. The Testimony was as a subject matter expert
on Arctic Shipping. Report below. Prepared comments included in the
Speeches addendum. https://sencanada.ca/content/ sen/committee/403/
defe/rep/rep07mar11-e.pdf
22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency/commission/corporation
to which you have been nominated, what in your background or employment
experience do you believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment
to the position for which you have been nominated, and why do you wish
to serve in that position?
I graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy in 1979 and have lived
my entire professional life fulfilling the mission of the Academy. I
have served as a deck officer and master primarily on tankers in
international trade. I have served in a variety of positions in
executive management for a major international shipping company. In
those capacities, I have done everything contemplated in President
Trump's Executive Order on Maritime Strategy and the related Ships for
America Act. Therefore, I have deep knowledge of the U.S. maritime
industry and the people that work in it. Concurrent with that, I have
served in a variety of positions on Navy committees and organizations,
hence developing a deep understanding of the relationship between the
maritime industry and national and economic security. In those roles I
have often conducted studies, participated in war games, and other
exercises at both the classified and unclassified level, probing issues
such as contested logistics. I have also developed expertise in Arctic
security issues, particularly arctic shipping and its relation to
national security. I have also developed an expertise in the
international security aspects of globalization and globalized supply
chains, topics on which I speak often and taught a seminar for the
Advanced Maritime Operations Course for Naval Intelligence. My
background positions me well to make an immediate impact on the mission
of MARAD I believe firmly in our industry and this industry has
provided me with great opportunity. I believe it is my obligation to
serve if called to pay back for that opportunity. The industry is in
desperate need of revitalization, now is the greatest potential for
that to happen in generations and the opportunity may never come again.
Those factors combined motivate me to want to serve in the capacity of
Maritime Administrator, if confirmed, and make a positive contribution
to our industry.
23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency/commission/corporation has proper
management and accounting controls, and what experience do you have in
managing a large organization?
I have extensive experience leading large organizations, sometimes
through difficult transitions such as that facing the Maritime
Administration now. During such times especially proper controls,
transparency, and clear communication are essential to a successful
outcome. The fundamentals of organizational change are-or should be-
consistent whether in government or private industry, therefore my past
experience in the industry will be directly applicable in successfully
leading MARAD should I be confirmed. From my experience as a corporate
executive, responsibility for proper management and accounting in the
organizations for which I was responsible can be grouped into several
overarching areas:
Remember who I work for and my responsibilities to the
owners and other stakeholders. Ensure the assets of the owners
(including their reputation and the reputation of the firm) are
preserved. Ensure responsibilities to employees and larger
society are met.
Establish the proper environment--Demonstrate ethical
behavior, commitment to proper governance, and act with
integrity. Ensure roles and responsibilities are clearly
defined and accountability for decisions enforced. Establish an
environment that promotes transparency and accountability.
Design and implement proper internal controls including
policies and procedures that are efficient, effective, and
routinely tested or audited. Ensure auditors are properly
supported in their role and ensure audit or other governance
reports are received directly and unfiltered. Establish
effective relationships with finance and internal control
teams, including regular review of financial statements and
ensure understanding of deviations from plan.
Establish a strong internal and external communication
routine with all stakeholders.
Per my resume, I have had several executive leadership positions
ashore with Maersk Line Limited (MLL)--the largest U.S. flag shipping
company in the country (at the time about 60 ships), including approx.
40 percent of the tonnage in the Maritime Security Program, including
time on the Board of Directors, and a $1.5B company responsibly for
several thousand staff including sea staff. I am presently President of
a tanker company after spin off from MLL responsible for 6 ships and
full P and L responsibility to the board and roughly 400 staff at sea
and afloat.
24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency/commission/corporation, and why?
1. The deterioration of the U.S. maritime industry in terms of U.S.
flag shipping and commercial shipbuilding to the point they are
now irrelevant as a factor in U.S. economic security and hence
incapable of fulfilling any national security mission,
including executing the complex logistics mission any conflict
with China would require. In addition, the U.S. port system
ranks poorly in international standings for port productivity.
Lastly the U.S. internal waterway system is in desperate need
to upgrade and repair, receiving a C-from the ASCE, and having
a $7.5B backlog in needed repairs in 2025. The internal
waterway system is essential to agricultural and manufacturing
sectors in the Midwest and a significant failure could have
grievous consequences for the national economy.
2. A serious shortage of maritime labor, both seagoing and for
shipbuilding and repair. A revitalization of the U.S. maritime
industry cannot happen without significant investment in
skilled workforce development starting at the high school
level. This also include ``fixing'' the U.S. Merchant Marine
Academy, which is in dire need of investment and attention.
3. Lack of a coherent strategy that ties all elements of the
maritime industry (the Blue Economy) together as a system,
unambiguously and clearly ties the industry and solutions to
its challenges to broader national and economic security plans,
policies and objectives, and provides for specific actionable
programs to remedy the problems stated above with adequate and
sustainable sources of funding.
b. potential conflicts of interest
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts, such as a 401(k) or pension plan.
My arrangements are fully described in Part 3 of my Public
Financial Disclosure Report. A list of these arrangements and
agreements is below.
I have vested restricted stock units in an independent stock
plan as part of a long-term incentive program from my former
employer, Maersk Line Limited. Maersk will accelerate the
unlocking of my vested restricted stock units. I will forfeit
restricted stock units valued over and above $10,000 and will
be awarded only up to $10,000 in Maersk stock prior to assuming
my position as Administrator, if confirmed. I will divest my
interests in Maersk as soon as practicable but not later than
90 days after my confirmation.
I have a defined contribution plan (401K plan) with U.S.
Marine Management. I will continue to participate in this
defined contribution plan. The plan's sponsor will not make
further contributions after my separation.
I will receive a severance payment upon my separation from
U.S. Marine Management for $50,000. The amount of the payment
is determined at the discretion of the owners and has already
been fixed by the company. This payment will be paid to me
prior to assuming the duties of the position of Administrator
(if confirmed) or I will forfeit it.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association, or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain. No.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
resolve each potential conflict of interest.
In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
the Office of Government Ethics and the Department of Transportation
(``DOT'') Designated Agency Ethics Official to identify potential
conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
resolved consistent with the terms of an ethics agreement I have
entered into with the DOT Designated Agency Ethics Official, which has
been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any other conflicts
of interest.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
each potential conflict of interest.
In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
the Office of Government Ethics and the Department of Transportation
(``DOT'') Designated Agency Ethics Official to identify potential
conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
resolved consistent with the terms of an ethics agreement I have
entered into with the DOT Designated Agency Ethics Official, which has
been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any other conflicts
of interest.
5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest and explain
how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest.
In connection with the nomination process, I have consulted with
the Office of Government Ethics and the Department of Transportation
(``DOT'') Designated Agency Ethics Official to identify potential
conflicts of interest. Any potential conflicts of interest will be
resolved consistent with the terms of an ethics agreement I have
entered into with the DOT Designated Agency Ethics Official, which has
been provided to this Committee. I am not aware of any other conflicts
of interest.
6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
execution of law or public policy. None.
c. legal matters
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
Counsel, an Inspector General, professional association, disciplinary
committee, or other professional group? If yes:
No.
a. Provide the name of the court, agency, association, committee, or
group;
b. Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action was issued or initiated;
c. Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action;
d. Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
complaint, or personnel action.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, municipal, or foreign government entity, other than for
a minor traffic offense? If so, please explain. No.
3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
explain.
As a U.S. flag ship operator, our mariners are not eligible for
workman's compensation for work related injuries. They are required to
seek compensation via the courts which is normal for our industry.
Therefore, the case list is extensive. See Attachment A for a complete
list.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain. No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
assault, sexual harassment, or discrimination on the basis of sex,
race, religion, or any other basis? If so, please explain. No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination. None.
d. relationship with committee
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation complies with deadlines for information set by
congressional committees, and that your department/agency/commission/
corporation endeavors to timely comply with requests for information
from individual Members of Congress, including requests from members in
the minority?
Yes, I will ensure that my office responds, timely, to such
requests for information as appropriate.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation does whatever it can to protect congressional witnesses and
whistleblowers from reprisal for their testimony and disclosures?
Yes, I will ensure that my office responds as appropriate.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee?
Yes, I will ensure that my office keeps the Committee appraised as
appropriate.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
reasonably requested to do so? Yes, I will ensure that my office
responds as appropriate.
______
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
FEDERAL CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, 1:1990cv00628 Lapetri v. Maersk Line New York Eastern 2/22/1990 10/25/1990
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1990cv00628 Lapetri v. Maersk Line New York Eastern 2/22/1990 10/25/1990
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1990cv00628 Lapetri v. Maersk Line New York Eastern 2/22/1990 10/25/1990
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1991cv01747 Harris v. Maersk Line, New York Southern 3/13/1991 4/30/1991
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1992cv00453 Maersk Line, Ltd v. Alabama Southern 6/2/1992 2/17/1993
Limited Smith District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1992cv00453 Maersk Line, Ltd v. Alabama Southern 6/2/1992 2/17/1993
Limited Smith District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1992cv04209 Maersk Line, Limited New York Southern 6/8/1992 10/30/1992
Limited v. South East District Court
Atlantic
Maersk Line, 2:1992cv00791 Allred v. Maersk line Virginia Eastern 10/6/1992 2/24/1995
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 3:1993cv00283 Falk v. Maersk Line, California Northern 1/25/1993 11/8/1993
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 2:1993cv00742 Najah v. Maersk Line, New Jersey District 2/22/1993 6/22/1994
Limited Limited, et al Court
Maersk Line, 0:1993cv.pr02029 Allred v. Maersk Line, U.S. Court of Appeals, 8/17/1993 9/13/1994
Limited Limited Fourth Circuit
Maersk Line, 2:1996cv03273 Small v. Maersk Line, New Jersey District 7/5/1996 2/13/1998
Limited Limited, et al Court
Maersk Line, 2:1997cv00299 Sargent v. Maersk Pennsylvania Eastern 1/14/1997 11/5/1997
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 2:1997cv04175 Zolinas v. Maersk Pennsylvania Eastern 6/20/1997 8/7/1997
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1998ap05601 Devan and Maersk Line, Maryland Bankruptcy 2/23/1998 6/11/1999
Limited Limited Court
Maersk Line, 1:1999cv01122 Sang v. American Of, New York Eastern 2/26/1999 9/28/2001
Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1999cv01122 Sang v. American Of, New York Eastern 2/26/1999 9/28/2001
Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 3:1999cv00194 Hall v. Maersk Inc., Texas Southern 3/29/1999 8/4/1999
Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 3:1999cv00331 Laffitte v. Maersk Texas Southern 6/2/1999 6/7/2000
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1999cv00560 Maersk Line, Limited Alabama Southern 6/16/1999 9/29/2000
Limited v. Laffitte District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1999cv00689 Maersk Line, Limited Alabama Southern 7/26/1999 3/31/2000
Limited v. Juzang District Court
Maersk Line, 33:1999cv00808 Hall v. USA, et al Florida Middle 8/10/1999 1/18/2001
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:1999cv00766 Maersk Line, Ltd v. Alabama Southern 8/20/1999 2/22/2000
Limited Dansley, et al District Court
Maersk Line, 3:1999cv00761 Martin v. Maersk Line, Texas Southern 12/10/1999 3/17/2000
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 0:2000pcf40710 Laffitte v. Maersk U.S. Court of Appeals, 6/27/2000 6/12/2001
Limited Line, Limited Fifth Circuit
Maersk Line, 0:2000pcf40740 Laffitte v. Maersk U.S. Court of Appeals, 6/30/2000 6/12/2001
Limited Line, Limited Fifth Circuit
Maersk Line, 2:2001cv03119 Young v. United Pennsylvania Eastern 6/22/2001 8/26/2002
Limited States, et al District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2001cv04616 Thompson v. Maersk New Jersey District 10/1/2001 5/27/2005
Limited Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 1:2001cv09689 U.S. Ship Management New York Southern 11/2/2001 2/27/2002
Limited v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 1:2002cv00603 Koen v. Maersk Line, Alabama Southern 8/8/2002 9/11/2002
Limited Ltd, et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2002cv08923 MacCollister v. New York Southern 11/8/2002 1/26/2005
Limited Expediter Transport, District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 2:2002cv00906 Kennedy v. Maersk Virginia Eastern 11/19/2002 3/9/2004
Limited Line, Limited, et al District Court
Maersk Line, 0:2003pcf30021 Scardina v. Maersk U.S. Court of Appeals, 1/8/2003 2/5/2003
Limited Line Ltd Fifth Circuit
Maersk Line, 0:2003cv60033 Adams v. Maersk Line, Florida Southern 1/10/2003 9/24/2004
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 0:2003pcf40418 Fanos v. Maersk Line, U.S. Court of Appeals, 3/27/2003 3/10/2004
Limited Ltd. et al Fifth Circuit
Maersk Line, 1:2003cv00951 U.S. Ship Management, District of Columbia 4/29/2003 3/4/2005
Limited Inc. v. U.S. Maritime District Court
Administration
Maersk Line, 1:2003bk80215 Baltimore Marine Maryland Bankruptcy 6/11/2003 2/3/2011
Limited Industries, Inc. Court
Maersk Line, 1:2003ap05300 Maersk Line, Limited Maryland Bankruptcy 7/3/2003 5/19/2004
Limited and Baltimore Marine Court
Industries, Inc.
Maersk Line, 1:2003ap08040 Baltimore Marine Maryland Bankruptcy 7/8/2003 5/19/2004
Limited Industries, Inc. and Court
Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 1:2003ap08154 Maersk Line, Limited Maryland Bankruptcy 7/31/2003 5/19/2010
Limited and Ocean Technical Court
Services Corp.
Maersk Line, 1:2003ap08154 Maersk Line, Limited Maryland Bankruptcy 7/31/2003 5/19/2010
Limited and Ocean Technical Court
Services Corp.
Maersk Line, 1:2003ap08154 Maersk Line, Limited Maryland Bankruptcy 7/31/2003 5/19/2010
Limited and Ocean Technical Court
Services Corp.
Maersk Line, 1:2003cv07459 MC Logistics Limited v New York Southern 9/23/2003 9/14/2005
Limited M/V ``Dirch Maersk``, District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 3:2003cv00890 Smalls v. USA, et al Florida Middle 10/20/2003 7/8/2004
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2003cv09669 Adolph Jahn & Co. Gmbh New York Southern 12/5/2003 4/2/2004
Limited v. M/V Sealand District Court
Performance et al
Maersk Line, 2:2004cv70216 Westfall v. United Michigan Eastern 1/22/2004 5/28/2004
Limited States of America District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2004cv00825 Lyons v. Maersk Line Illinois Northern 2/2/2004 2/5/2004
Limited Ltd District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2004cv00114 Dempster v. Maersk Virginia Eastern 2/27/2004 11/9/2004
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2004cv02504 U.S. Ship Management, New York Southern 3/31/2004 1/6/2005
Limited Inc. v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 1:2004cv20913 Wright v. Maersk Line, Florida Southern 4/16/2004 6/22/2004
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2004cv05666 Maersk Line, Limited New York Southern 7/19/2004 10/5/2004
Limited v. U.S. Ship District Court
Management, Inc.
Maersk Line, 0:2004cvus05299 US Ship Mgmt v. U.S. U.S. Court of Appeals, 8/27/2004 3/3/2005
Limited Maritime Admin D.C. Circuit
Maersk Line, 1:2004cv07661 U.S. Ship Management, New York Southern 9/28/2004 3/9/2005
Limited Inc. v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 2:2004cv04994 Benson v. Maersk Line, New Jersey District 10/13/2004 10/11/2005
Limited Limited et al Court
Maersk Line, 0:2004cv.pr02387 US Ship Mgmt, et al v. U.S. Court of Appeals, 11/4/2004 11/18/2004
Limited Maersk Line Fourth Circuit
Maersk Line, 0:2004cv.pr02387 US Ship Mgmt, et al v. U.S. Court of Appeals, 11/4/2004 11/18/2004
Limited Maersk Line Fourth Circuit
Maersk Line, 1:2005mc00001 U.S. Ship Management Virginia Eastern 1/6/2005 2/14/2005
Limited v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 1:2005mc00101 U.S. Ship Management District of Columbia 2/24/2005 11/21/2006
Limited Inc v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 2:2005cv01447 Liberty Global New York Eastern 3/18/2005 10/7/2005
Limited Logistic LLC v. District Court
United States
Maritime
Administration et al
Maersk Line, 2:2005cv00260 Brooks v. Maersk Line, Virginia Eastern 5/4/2005 10/24/2005
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2005cv01441 Grochal v. Maersk Maryland District 5/27/2005 1/9/2006
Limited Line, Limited et al Court
Maersk Line, 1:2005cv06245 Hanback v. Maersk New York Southern 7/7/2005 5/30/2008
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2005cv06246 Wilson v. Maersk Line, New York Southern 7/7/2005 4/3/2008
Limited Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2005cv40187 Valentine v. Maersk Massachuetts District 10/21/2005 9/20/2007
Limited Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 2:2005cv00747 Maersk Line, Limited Virginia Eastern 12/21/2005 10/30/2006
Limited v. The United States District Court
of America
Maersk Line, 4:2005cv04382 Royal Cargo Line, Inc. Texas Southern 12/29/2005 5/8/2006
Limited v. M/V Sea-land Comet District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 3:2006cv00087 Dickey v. Maersk Line, Texas Southern 2/14/2006 11/1/2006
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 0:2006bk.dc01206 Grochal, et al v. U.S. Court of Appeals, 2/17/2006 2/9/2007
Limited Ocean Technical Svcs, Fourth Circuit
et al
Maersk Line, 3:2006cv00199 Teferi v. Maersk Line, Texas Southern 3/30/2006 1/12/2007
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2006cv01362 Capt Craig Towing, LLC Texas Southern 4/19/2006 6/25/2008
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2006cv01362 Capt Craig Towing, LLC Texas Southern 4/19/2006 6/25/2008
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2006cv01362 Capt Craig Towing, LLC Texas Southern 4/19/2006 6/25/2008
Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2006mc50625 Equal Employment Michigan Eastern 6/28/2006
Limited Opportunity District Court
Commission v. Maersk
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 2:2006cv00371 Clements v. Norfolk Virginia Eastern 6/30/2006 10/17/2006
Limited Southern Railway District Court
Company et al
Maersk Line, 2:2006mc50671 Equal Employment Michigan Eastern 7/13/2006
Limited Opportunity District Court
Commission v. Maersk
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 3:2006ap00391 William Kaye, as Tennessee Middle 9/28/2006 2/26/2007
Limited Trustee of the Murray Bankruptcy Court
Liquidating and
Maersk, Inc.
Maersk Line, 6:2006cv00110 Smith v. Texas Texas Southern 10/31/2006 9/8/2008
Limited Shredder, Inc. st al District Court
Maersk Line, 0:2007cv.us01013 Maersk Line, Limited U.S. Court of Appeals, 1/9/2007 1/28/2008
Limited et al v. United Fourth Circuit
States
Maersk Line, 3:2007cv00076 Eleazar Lozano, Jr. v. Texas Southern 2/6/2007 11/28/2007
Limited Maersk Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2007cv01293 Tombari v. Maersk New Jersey District 3/19/2007 11/30/2007
Limited Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 3:2007cv03318 Garrett v. U.S. Ship California Northern 6/25/2007 2/19/2009
Limited Management, Inc. et District Court
al
Maersk Line, 3:2007cv01568 Nazario v. Maersk Puerto Rico District 6/25/2007 5/27/2010
Limited Line, Limited et al Court
Maersk Line, 1:2007cv02633 Sieger v. Maersk Line, New York Eastern 6/28/2007 12/16/2008
Limited Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 3:2007cv00431 Alvarez v. Maersk Texas Southern 8/23/2007 7/28/2008
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 3:2008cv00043 Hackler v. P&O Ports Louisiana Middle 1/22/2008 3/29/2013
Limited Louisiana, Inc. et al District Court
Maersk Line, 3:2008cv00074 Michael T. Hackler v. Louisiana Middle 2/4/2008 9/19/2008
Limited P&O Ports Louisiana, District Court
Inc. et al
Maersk Line, 3:2008cv00082 Hackler v Greater Louisiana Middle 2/7/2008 8/25/2008
Limited Baton Rouge Port District Court
Commision
Maersk Line, 5:2008cv10782 Zain v. Maersk Line, Michigan Eastern 2/25/2008 7/31/2008
Limited Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 0:2008cv.pr01263 In Re: Application of U.S. Court of Appeals, 3/4/2008 3/4/2008
Limited Sipromad v. Maersk Fourth Circuit
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 1:2008cv03518 Hall v. Maersk Line, New York Southern 4/11/2008 4/4/2011
Limited Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2008cv00442 Maddux v. United Ohio Southern District 6/27/2008 5/16/2011
Limited States of America et Court
al
Maersk Line, 1:2008cv11204 Barclay v. Maersk Massachuetts District 7/15/2008 2/25/2011
Limited Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 2:2008cv87777 Hackler v. P&O Ports Pennsylvania Eastern 8/22/2008 2/7/2012
Limited Louisiana, Inc. et al District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2008cv87779 Hackler v Greater Pennsylvania Eastern 8/22/2008 6/28/2012
Limited Baton Rouge Port District Court
Commision et al
Maersk Line, 2:2008cv88873 Hackler et al v. P&O Pennsylvania Eastern 9/12/2008 6/4/2010
Limited Ports Louisiana, Inc. District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 1:2008cv04813 Skye v. Maersk Line, New Jersey District 9/25/2008 9/22/2009
Limited Limited et al Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv03624 Ahmed v. Maersk Line, New York Southern 4/8/2009 5/4/2011
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv04575 Phillips Foods, Inc. New York Southern 5/14/2009 9/3/2009
Limited v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited et al
Maersk Line, 4:2009cv01601 Hicks v. Waterman Texas Southern 5/27/2009 9/16/2009
Limited Steamship District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2009cv01692 Cupan v. Maersk Line, Texas Southern 6/3/2009 9/8/2009
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2009cv02736 Jaradat v. Maersk Pennsylvania Eastern 6/17/2009 9/22/2010
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv00747 Maersk Line, Limited Virginia Eastern 7/6/2009 7/13/2009
Limited v. Vilsak et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv03161 Liberty Shipping Group New York Eastern 7/22/2009 9/24/2009
Limited LLC v. United States District Court
of America et al
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv03193 Lopez-Ranilla v. New York Eastern 7/24/2009 9/15/2010
Limited Maersk Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv03404 Spencer v. Maersk New York Eastern 8/6/2009 3/26/2010
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv03408 Salah v. Maersk Line, New York Eastern 8/6/2009 4/11/2011
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv03454 Austin v. Maersk Line, New York Eastern 8/10/2009 5/28/2010
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv00513 Johnson v. Maersk Alabama Southern 8/10/2009 6/10/2010
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2009cv03455 Martinez v. Maersk New York Eastern 8/10/2009 12/13/2010
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2009cv05170 Anacta v. Maersk Line, New Jersey District 10/8/2009 2/18/2011
Limited Limited Court
Maersk Line, 3:2010cv02078 Gonzalez v. Maersk Puerto Rico District 11/3/2010 10/12/2012
Limited Line, Limited et al Court
Maersk Line, 1:21010ap02627 The Official Committee Illinois Northern 12/23/2010 11/19/2012
Limited of Unsecured Bankruptcy Court
Creditors of X and
Esquel Enterprises
Ltd
Maersk Line, 1:2010ap02647 The Official Committee Illinois Northern 12/23/2010 5/16/2012
Limited of Unsecured Bankruptcy Court
Creditors of X and
Esquel Enterprises
Ltd
Maersk Line, 0:2011cv03022 James Maddux v. USA et U.S. Court of Appeals, 1/7/2011 1/19/2011
Limited al Sixth Circuit
Maersk Line, 1:2011cv02888 A&D Exclusive Corp. v. New York Southern 4/28/2011 6/27/2012
Limited Maersk Inc. et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2011cv02888 A&D Exclusive Corp. v. New York Southern 4/28/2011 6/27/2012
Limited Maersk Inc. et al District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2011cv05026 O'Connor v. Maersk Pennsylvania Eastern 8/4/2011 2/21/2012
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2011cv03251 Lewis v. Maersk Line, Texas Southern 9/1/2011 3/23/2012
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 0:2012cv00834 Padilla v. Maersk U.S. Court of Appeals, 3/1/2012 6/25/2013
Limited Line, Limited Second Circuit
Maersk Line, 2:2012cv02483 Maersk Line, Limited New Jersey District 4/26/2012 7/9/2012
Limited et al Court
Maersk Line, 4:2012cv00127 Horton et al v. Maersk Georgia Southern 5/9/2012 9/22/2014
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2012cv05280 Andrucovici et al New Jersey District 8/22/2012 9/11/2012
Limited Court
Maersk Line, 4:2013cv02171 Fetter v. Maersk Line, Texas Southern 7/25/2013 4/2/2014
Limited Limited. Case District Court
electronically
transferred to
District of New
Jersey
Maersk Line, 1:2013cv07136 RLI Insurance Copany New York Southern 10/8/2013 4/29/2014
Limited et al v. Orca et al District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2013cv06899 Reinauer New Jersey District 11/8/2013 4/1/2014
Limited Transportation Court
Companies, LLC v.
Maersk Line, Limited
et al
Maersk Line, 2:2013cv06899 Reinauer New Jersey District 11/8/2013 4/1/2014
Limited Transportation Court
Companies, LLC v.
Maersk Line, Limited
et al
Maersk Line, 1:2013cv08477 National Union Fire New York Southern 11/26/2013 6/25/2014
Limited Insurance Company of District Court
Pittsburgh, P.A. et
al v. Maersk et al
Maersk Line, 3:2014cv00220 KVA Electric, Inc. et California Northern 1/14/2014 3/24/2014
Limited al v. A.P. Moelller- District Court
Maersk A/S trading as
Maersk Line et al
Maersk Line, 2:2014mc00090 In re: Khaled California Central 2/25/2014 5/15/2014
Limited Munassar, United District Court
States Merchant
Marine (MMD No.
2246187) Missing at
Sea, February 10,
2014
Maersk Line, 2:2014cv03737 Ghaleb m. Ghaleb vs. California Central 5/15/2014 6/19/2014
Limited Maersk Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2014cv05757 Saleh v. Maersk Line, New York Southern 7/28/2014 4/7/2016
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2014cv06260 Maersk Line, Limited New York Southern 8/7/2014 3/31/2015
Limited v. Saleh District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2014cv07006 George et al v. Maersk New York Southern 8/28/2014 6/9/2016
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2014cv07294 National Union Fire New York Southern 9/19/2014 10/23/2014
Limited Insurance Company of District Court
Pittsburgh, P.A. et
al v. M/V Maersk Utah
et al
Maersk Line, 0:2014prici14450 John Horton, et al v. U.S. Court of Appeals, 10/2/2014 2/27/2015
Limited Maersk Line, Limited, Eleventh Circuit
et al
Maersk Line, 1:2014cv05951 Soliman v. Maersk New York Eastern 10/10/2014 1/26/2017
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2014bk12414 National Air Cargo, New York Western 10/17/2014 2/5/2019
Limited Inc. Bankruptcy Court
Maersk Line, 1:2014cv01028 Crowley Technical U.S. Court of Federal 10/22/2014 9/25/2015
Limited Management, Inc v. Claims
USA
Maersk Line, 1:2014cv00024 Marquez v. Maersk Northern Mariana 12/11/2014 5/24/2016
Limited Line, Limited Islands District
Court
Maersk Line, 1:2015cv01785 National Union Fire New York Southern 3/10/2015 4/24/2015
Limited Insurance Company of District Court
Pittsburgh, P.A. et
al v. M/V Leda Maersk
et al
Maersk Line, 2:2016cv00230 Reyes v. Maersk Line, Virginia Eastern 5/10/2016 12/7/2016
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 8:2016cv01600 Mohsen Hubair v. California Central 8/30/2016 1/13/2017
Limited Maersk Line, Limited District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 1:2016ap01068 The Official Committee New York Western 10/11/2016 1/8/2018
Limited of Unsecured Bankruptcy Court
Creditors and Maersk
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 0:2016cv04757 Don Shine, et al v. U.S. Court of Appeals, 12/29/2016 11/8/2019
Limited Alcoa Steamship Co., Sixth Circuit
Inc., et al
Maersk Line, 3:2017cv00019 EPL Oil & Gas, Inc. et Texas Southern 1/20/2017 3/22/2017
Limited al v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited. Case has
been transferred to
Houston Division
Maersk Line, 4:2017cv00898 EPL Oil & Gas, Inc. et Texas Southern 1/20/2017 4/6/2017
Limited al v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited. Case is
consolicated under
4:17-cv-188
Maersk Line, 1:2017cv00281 Anham FZCO, LLC v. Virginia Eastern 3/9/2017 4/5/2017
Limited Maersk Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2017cv10534 Foster v. Maersk Line, Massachuetts District 3/28/2017 10/31/2018
Limited Limited Court
Maersk Line, 3:2017cv00178 Pierce v. Maersk Inc. Texas Southern 6/7/2017 6/1/2018
Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2017cv05959 AGCS Marine Insurance New York Southern 8/7/2017 9/27/2017
Limited Company v. M/V Maersk District Court
Kinloss et al
Maersk Line, 1:2017cv07473 Federal Insurance New York Southern 9/29/2017 10/30/2017
Limited Company v. Maersk District Court
Line A/S et al
Maersk Line, 1:2017cv00262 Maersk Line, Limited U.S. Court of 10/31/2017 9/17/2019
Limited v. United States International Trade
Maersk Line, 1:2017cv08659 National Air Cargo New York Southern 11/8/2017 9/27/2019
Limited Group, Inc. v. Maersk District Court
Line, Limited et al
Maersk Line, 1:2018cv00188 Maersk Line, Limited U.S. Court of 8/23/2018 9/12/2019
Limited v. United States International Trade
Maersk Line, 4:2019cv00012 Richard Grimble v. Texas Southern 1/2/2019 3/3/2022
Limited Maersk Line, Limited District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 2:2019cv04244 Certain Underwriters California Central 5/16/2019 7/2/2019
Limited at Lloyds v. Maersk District Court
Line AS et al
Maersk Line, 3:2019cv00238 Reed et al v. Maersk Texas Southern 7/22/2019 4/12/2023
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 3:2019cv00242 Marsh v. BP Products Texas Southern 7/24/2019 5/18/2021
Limited North America, Inc. District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 0:2019cv03254 National Air Cargo U.S. Court of Appeals, 10/8/2019 11/18/2019
Limited Group, Inc. v. Maersk Second Circuit
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 3:2019cv06743 Bickham v. Maersk California Northern 10/18/2019 3/29/2022
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2019cv11373 Liberty Specialty New York Southern 12/12/2019 2/9/2021
Limited Markets Limited et al District Court
v. Maersk, Inc. et al
Maersk Line, 1:2019cv11364 Sai Marine Export Pvt New York Southern 12/12/2019 2/9/2021
Limited Limited v. Maersk District Court
Line A/S
Maersk Line, 1:2020cv03322 Valentine v. Maersk New York Eastern 7/23/2020 9/16/2020
Limited Line, Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 3:2020cv00829 USA et al v. Maersk Illinois Southern 8/27/2020 3/16/2021
Limited Line, Limited et al District Court
Maersk Line, 2:2020cv18841 Muthala v. Maersk New Jersey District 12/14/2020 3/14/2025
Limited Line, Limited et al Court
Maersk Line, 1:2021cv00125 Maersk Line, Limited District of Columbia 1/14/2021 8/11/2023
Limited v. U.S. Department of District Court
State
Maersk Line, 1:2021cv01722 Air Express New York Southern 2/26/2021 9/9/2022
Limited Internatiional USA, District Court
Inc. v. Maersk, Inc.
et al
Maersk Line, 1:2021cv01722 Air Express New York Southern 2/26/2021 9/9/2022
Limited Internatiional USA, District Court
Inc. v. Maersk, Inc.
et al
Maersk Line, 2:2021cv11222 Solis v. Maersk Line, New Jersey District 5/14/2021 8/2/2022
Limited Limited Court
Maersk Line, 2:2021cv00317 Allen v. Maersk Line, Virginia Eastern 6/4/2021 1/10/2022
Limited Limited, et al District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2021cv01277 Cockett Marine Oil Delaware District 9/8/2021 4/26/2023
Limited DMCC v. CI Court
International Fuels,
LLC et al
Maersk Line, 2:2021cv00501 Maersk Line, Limited Virginia Eastern 9/9/2021 12/9/2021
Limited v. United States District Court
Coast Guard
Maersk Line, 0:2021pcf30636 Seville v. Maersk Line U.S. Court of Appeals, 10/13/2021 11/18/2022
Limited Fifth Circuit
Maersk Line, 1:2022cv00100 White Coral Marine Delaware District 1/25/2022 9/2/2022
Limited Limited et al v. Court
Chimbusco Pan Nation
Petro-Chemical
Co.Ltd. Et al
Maersk Line, 2:2022cv05038 Acosta v. Port Newark New Jersey District 8/12/2022 7/28/2023
Limited Container Terminal, Court
LLC et al
Maersk Line, 2:2022cv00370 Maersk Line, Limited Virginia Eastern 9/2/2022 12/19/2023
Limited v. United States District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2022cv03764 Okpere v. Maersk Line, Texas Southern 10/28/2022 9/12/2024
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 4:2022cv00261 Amick v. Maersk Line, Georgia Southern 11/2/2022 7/21/2023
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2023cv00017 Ogbo et al v. CSX Georgia Southern 2/21/2023 11/27/2023
Limited Transportaion, Inc. District Court
et al
Maersk Line, 1:2023cv02501 Gaylan v. Maersk Line, New York Southern 3/24/2023 10/24/2023
Limited Limited District Court
Maersk Line, 1:2023cv09599 Maersk Line, Limited New York Southern 11/1/2023 3/8/2024
Limited v. Theodor Wille District Court
Intertrade, GmbH
Maersk Line, 4:2024cv00274 Carter v. Maersk Line, Georgia Southern 12/6/2024
Limited Limited-USA et al District Court
CALIFORNIA CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, 22STCV22245 Dalia Franklin v. Los Angeles County 07/10/2022
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
(Asbestos)
Maersk Line, 2:22cv3543 Travelers Property USDC Central District 05/24/2022
Limited Casualty Company of of California
America v. Maersk
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 22STCV15952 Ricky Lynn Feigner v. Los Angeles County 05/12/2022
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
(Asbestos)
Maersk Line, 21STCV29691 Eduardo Hernandez v. Los Angeles County 08/11/2021
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, RG21088294 Edward Richards v. Alameda County 01/29/2021
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
(Asbestos)
Maersk Line, 20STCV47908 Dejan Ulic v. Maersk Los Angeles County 12/15/2020
Limited Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 20STCV45382 Gerald Feigner v. Los Angeles County 11/24/2020
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
(Asbestos)
Maersk Line, 3:19cv6743 Omoro Bickham v. USDC Northern District 10/18/2019
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, 8:19cv1847 Oar Auto Inc, v. USDC Central District 09/27/2019
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, RG19035560 Omoro Bickham v. Alameda County 09/18/2019
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 3:19cv3707 Allan D. Bombita v. USDC Northern District 06/26/2019
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, 2:19cv4244 Certain Underwriters USDC Central District 05/16/2019
Limited at Lloyds v. Maersk of California
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 37-2018-38528-CU- Denver Urlaub v. San Diego County 08/01/2018
Limited BC-CTL Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 2:17cv8457 Maersk Line, Limited USDC Central District 11/20/2017
Limited v. Apex Maritime Co. of California
Maersk Line, BC640986 Mario Baja v. Maersk Los Angeles County 11/16/2016
Limited Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 8:16cv1600 Mohsen Hubair v. USDC Central District 08/30/2016
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, 2:16cv4173 NGL Transportation v. USDC Central District 06/10/2016
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, 2:16cv272 Elkay Plastics Company USDC Central District 01/13/2016
Limited Inc. v. Maersk Line, of California
Limited
Maersk Line, BC600032 Elkay Plastics Company Los Angeles County 11/04/2015
Limited Inc. v. Maersk Line, Superior Court
Limited
Maersk Line, RG14-734205 David Kabasinskas v. Alameda County 07/24/2014
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 2:14cv3737 Maersk Line, Limited USDC Central District 05/15/2014
Limited v. Ghaleb M. Ghaleb of California
Maersk Line, 2:14cv3567 Agro Trading USDC Central District 05/08/2014
Limited International LLC v. of California
Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 2:14mc90 Re Khaled Munassar, USDC Central District 02/25/2014
Limited Missing at Sea, v. of California
Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 2:14cv427 XL Specialty Insurance USDC Central District 01/17/2014
Limited Company v. Maersk of California
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 3:14cv220 KVA Electric Inc. v. USDC Northern District 01/14/2014
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, 2:13cv9440 Agro Trading USDC Central District 12/23/2013
Limited International LLC v. of California
Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 4:13cv5812 Darin Allen v. Maersk USDC Northern District 12/16/2013
Limited Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, BC530643 Bridgette Moore et al Los Angeles County 12/16/2013
Limited v. Maersk Line, Superior Court
Limited (Asbestos)
Maersk Line, NC059203 Agro Trading Los Angeles County 11/25/2013
Limited International LLC v. Superior Court
Maersk Line, Limited Branches
Maersk Line, 2:13cv6503 Elouise T. James v. USDC Central District 09/05/2013
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, BC515773 Brittany D. Lewis v. Los Angeles County 07/22/2013
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 2:13cv5147 Pandol Associates USDC Central District 07/17/2013
Limited Marketing Inc. v. of California
Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, RG13-688180 Robert Bell v. Maersk Alameda County 07/17/2013
Limited Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, BC515247 Norberto Castillo v. Los Angeles County 07/16/2013
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 2:13cv3453 Terry Allen v. Maersk USDC Central District 05/14/2013
Limited Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, 2:12cv1857 Tokio Marine and USDC Central District 03/05/2012
Limited Nichido Fire Co. Ltd. of California
V. Maersk Line,
Limited
Maersk Line, RG11-578268 Kenneth Vollman v. Alameda County 05/27/2011
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 4:11cv725 Stephen Lambert v. USDC Northern District 02/16/2011
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, NC054758 Ahmed Hissein Los Angeles County 06/28/2010
Limited Alaidaroos v. Maersk Superior Court Branch
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, NC053633 John Gomard v. Maersk Los Angeles County 10/09/2009
Limited Line, Limited Superior Court Branch
Maersk Line, 2:09-cv-07147 Ronald Glusac v. USDC Central District 10/01/2009
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, NC042852 Paquiz Mario v. Maersk Los Angeles County 12/18/2008
Limited Line, Limited Superior Court Branch
Maersk Line, 3:08-cv-04728 Abdulaziz Zain v. USDC Northern District 10/14/2008
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, 5:08-cv-01247 James Edward Harper v. USDC Central District 09/11/2008
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, CGC-08-472574 Fadel Mohamed v. San Francisco County 02/26/2008
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, CGC-07-468402 Fadel Mohamed v. San Francisco County 10/22/2007
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Superior Court
Maersk Line, 3:06-cv-07728 Charles Andrews v. USDC Northern District 12/18/2006
Limited Maersk Line, Limited of California
Maersk Line, CGC-03-430986 William Dean v. Maersk San Francisco County 04/29/2004
Limited Line, Limited Superior Court
FLORIDA CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, 3:03cv77 Bruce Childers v. US District Court for 2/3/2003 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited the Middle District
of Florida
Maersk Line, 1:09cv21679 Daniell P. Gibbons v. US District Court, 6/17/2009 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Florida Southern
Maersk Line, 0:03cv60033 George Adams v. Maersk US Distrcit Court for 1/10/2003 Closed
Limited Line, Limited the Southern District
of Florida
Maersk Line, CACE01010980 Tanya Kennedy v. Florida Circuit & 6/25/2001 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited County Court, Broward
County
Maersk Line, 3:11cv206 John C. Orr v. Maersk US District Court for 5/2/2011 Closed
Limited Line, Limited the Northern District
of Florida
Maersk Line, 1:04cv20913 Wright v. Maersk Line, US District Court for 4/16/2004 Closed
Limited Limited the Southern District
of Florida
Maersk Line, 3:03cv890 William Smalls, Jr. v. US District Court for 10/20/2003 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited the Middle District
of Florida
Maersk Line, 14-14450 John Horton v. Maersk US Court of Appeals 10/2/2014 Closed
Limited line, Limited for the Eleventh
Circuit
Maersk Line, 8:09cv2176 Steven Lonas v. Maersk US District Court, 10/26/2009 Closed
Limited Line, Limited Florida Middle
Maersk Line, 161998CA006515 George Davis v. Maersk Florida Circuit & 12/7/1998 Closed
Limited XXX XMA Line, Limited County Court, Duval
County
Maersk Line, 162010CA015209 Maersk Line, Limited Florida Circuit & 12/29/2010 Closed
Limited XXX XMA v. United Motors Inc. County, Duval County
Maersk Line, 162006CA006890 Horace Robinson IV v. Florida Circuit & 9/25/2006 Closed
Limited XXX Maersk Line, Limited County, Duval County
XMA
Maersk Line, 2003-015372-CA-01 Dionisio Batiz v. Florida Circuit & 7/1/2003 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited County Court, Miami-
Dade County
Maersk Line, 2004-007111-CA-01 Nadia Wright v. Maersk Florida Circuit & 3/26/2004 Closed
Limited Line, Limited County Court, Miami-
Dade County
Maersk Line, 2002-030993-CA-01 George Adams v. Maersk Florida Circuit & 12/11/2002 Closed
Limited Line, Limited County Court, Miami-
Dade County
Maersk Line, 2005-018715-CA-01 David Mike Bunch v. Florida Circuit & 9/15/2005 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited County Court, Miami-
Dade County
Maersk Line, 1:21cv23908 Maersk Line, Limited US District Court, 11/5/2021 Closed
Limited v. Accelerated Florida Southern
International
Forwarders et al
Maersk Line, 2:14cv546 Bolin v. Maersk Line, US District Court, 9/17/2014 Closed
Limited Limited Florida Middle
Maersk Line, 03-CA-010618 John M. Frew v. Maersk Florida Circuit & 11/12/2003 Closed
Limited Line, Limited County Court,
Hillsborough County
Maersk Line, 00-12275 Maersk Line, Limited US Court of Appeals 5/3/2000 Closed
Limited v. Rickie L. Juzang for the Eleventh
Circuit
Maersk Line, 00-13566 Maersk Line, Limited US Court of Appeals 7/10/2000 Closed
Limited v. Othello Dansley for the Eleventh
Circuit
Maersk Line, 3:99cv808 Hall v. Maersk Line, US District Court for 8/10/1999 Closed
Limited Limited the Middle District
of Florida
Maersk Line, 12-16433 William Skye v. Maersk US Court of Appeals 12/19/2012 Closed
Limited Line, Limited for the Eleventh
Circuit
Maersk Line, 1:13cv21312 Saiti Express v. US District Court, 4/15/2013 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Florida Southern
Maersk Line, 0:03cv60033 Adams v. Maersk Line, US District Court for 1/10/2003 Closed
Limited Limited the Southern District
of Florida
Maersk Line, 2012-029705-CA-01 One West Bank v. Florida Circuit & 7/25/2012 Closed
Limited Maersk Line, Limited County Court, Miami-
Dade County
GEORGIA CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, STCV24-02350 Alexander Heyward v. Chatham County 10/14/2024 Active
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, STCV24-02323 Marquis Carter v. Chatham County 10/10/2024 Active
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 24-GM-12940 Portfolio Recovery Gwinnett County 5/17/2024 Active
Limited Associates, LLC v.
Flowers
Maersk Line, 22A00849 NGOZI OGBO v. Maersk Dekalb Sate Court 3/4/2022 12/20/2022
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 14A52261E7 Kevin Dean v. Bridge Dekalb Sate Court 7/16/2014 7/2/2015
Limited Terminal Transport,
Inc.
Maersk Line, STCV1200562 John Horton & Carolyn Chatham County 4/3/2012 5/9/2012
Limited Horton v. Maersk
Line, Limited
MASSACHUETTS CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, 4:05-cv-40187-FDS Valentine v. Maersk District of 10/21/2005 9/20/2007
Limited Line, Limited Massachuetts
Maersk Line, 1:07-cv-12144-JLT Spence v. Maersk Line, District of 11/15/2007 7/14/2009
Limited Limited Massachuetts
Maersk Line, 1:08-cv-11204-DPW Barclay v. Maersk District of 7/15/2008 2/25/2011
Limited Line, Limited Massachuetts
Maersk Line, 1:17-cv-10534-LTS Foster v. Maersk Line, District of 3/28/2017 10/31/2018
Limited Limited Massachuetts
Maersk Line, 1:19-cv-11842-RGS Parisi v. Maersk Line, District of 8/29/2019 3/25/2020
Limited case transferred Limited Massachuetts
to E.D. Va. 2:20-
cv-00155
TEXAS CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, DC-17-08473 Alton Hickman v. Dallas County District 7/14/2017 9/24/2018
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, DC-23-05862 Lazaro Gonzalez v. Dallas County District 5/3/2023 7/20/2023
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 201081908 Maersk Line, Limited
Limited v. Rogelios
Castellanos
Maersk Line, 202443140 Maersk Line, Limited Harris County-165th 8/15/2024 8/19/2024
Limited v. Harris Central Civil District Court
Appraisal District
Maersk Line, 201858665 Troy Ancar v. Maersk Harris County-270th 8/29/2018 2/3/2022
Limited Line, Limited Civil District Court
Maersk Line, 200710116 Calhoun, Bridget Anf
Limited of her son Cac v.
Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 201738922 Certain Underwriters
Limited at Lloyds London v.
Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 202246803 Jose Mario Chavez v. Harris County-281st
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Civil District Court
Maersk Line, 201025981 Charles Curtis Leon v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 2023-01487 David Kendrick v. Harris County-127th 1/9/2023 1/9/2024
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Civil District Court
Maersk Line, 201764133 Eberto Castro v. Harris County-152nd 9/27/2017 11/15/2018
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Civil District Court
Maersk Line, 200935336 Antonio Garcia v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 200957502 Sheldon Greenberg v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 200826963 Albert Henry v. Maersk
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 200926129 Richard E. Hicks v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 201409676 Julius Obilana v. Harris County-295th 2/25/2014 7/7/2015
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Civil District Court
Maersk Line, 202181859 Kenneth E. Benton v. Harris County-281st
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Civil District Court
Maersk Line, 200773458 Eleazar Lozano, Jr. v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 200336307 Port Terminal Railroad
Limited Authority v. Maersk
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 200980308 Reginald Watkins v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 200964336 Miguel Ruiz v. Maersk
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 201374042 Sandra Magee v. Maersk
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 202018231/ Sulesooay Streete, Jr. Victoria Couty-267th 6/5/2020 10/25/2021
Limited 20-06-85855-X v. Maersk Line, District Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 202275527 Tesfaye Gebregziabher Harris County-215th 11/6/2022 8/1/2024
Limited v. Maersk Line, Civil District Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 201772879 Timothy Brock v. Harris County-125th 10/27/2017 12/4/2018
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Civil District Court
Maersk Line, 2017DCV-5064-B Darryl Alexander v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 2020-139 Tanos Energy et al v.
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 202257584 Ehimarey Okpere v. Harris County-133rd 9/9/2022 11/14/2024
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Civil District Court
NEW YORK CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, 101020/2008 Michael Gaciala v. New York County 4/2/2009 12/18/2009
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court
Maersk Line, 153124/2012 Gabriel Albino v. New York County 5/25/2012 Pre-RJI
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court Status
Maersk Line, 153125/2012 William Richards v. New York County 5/25/2012 Pre-RJI
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court Status
Maersk Line, 153126/2012 Mohamed Soliman v. New York County 5/25/2012 Pre-RJI
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court Status
Maersk Line, 190284/2022 Keith Collins & Liz New York County 12/13/2022 Pre-RJI
Limited Collins v. Maersk Supreme Court Status
Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 190298/2014 Willard E. Bartel v. New York County 8/29/2014 Active
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court
Maersk Line, 190303/2014 Willard E. Bartel v. New York County 8/29/2014 Active
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court
Maersk Line, 190307/2014 Willard E. Bartel v. New York County 8/29/2014 Active
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court
Maersk Line, 190350/2013 Rita Mae Perkins v. New York County 9/27/2013 Pre-RJI
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court Status
Maersk Line, 190506/2012 Armando Giachin et al New York County 10/22/2012 10/8/2014
Limited v. Maersk Line, Supreme Court
Limited
Maersk Line, 24180/2013E Miguel Guity v. Maersk Bronx County Supreme 11/6/2013 5/22/2018
Limited (0024180/2013) Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 452742/2014 Raphael James v. New York County 11/14/2014 6/7/2017
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court
Maersk Line, 607663/2022 Hope Hicks v. Maersk Nassau County Supreme 6/14/2022 11/14/2022
Limited Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 607767/2022 Midshipman-Y v. Maersk Nassau County Supreme 6/15/2022 11/23/2022
Limited Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 0004569/2003 Abdullah Saeed v. Kings Supreme Court 5/22/2003 7/28/2004
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 0029826/2007 Kathleen Dunn & Howard Kings Supreme Court 1/23/2008 2/23/2010
Limited Dunn v. Maersk Line,
Limited
Maersk Line, 0301110/2007 Joseph Archer v. Bronx Supreme Court 3/13/2008 5/16/2012
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 0302580/2009 Francisco Diego v. Bronx Supreme Court 8/3/2009 8/4/2011
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 0003775/2010 Christopher T. Hale v. Nassau County Supreme 2/25/2010 1/3/2011
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, 102991/2011 Michael McCright v. New York County 6/8/2012 7/25/2013
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court
Maersk Line, 10318/2012 Shastri Mullahoo v. Queens Supreme Court 7/16/2012 4/7/2014
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, 190336/2016 Willard E. Bartel v. New York County 11/3/2016 Active
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Supreme Court
SOUTH CAROLINA CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, 2005CP1003594 Altec Industries Inc Charleston Circuit 9/2/2005 1/10/2006
Limited Etc et al v. Maersk Court
Line, Limited
VIRGINIA CASES
Date
Party Name Case Number Case Title Court Date Filed Closed
Maersk Line, CL16002434-00 Karen Annette Reyes v. Norfolk Circuit Court 3/3/2016 5/10/2013
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL03001141-00 William Wright v. Norfolk Circuit Court 5/12/2003 6/4/2003
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL05000899-00 Roslyn N. Brooks v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/22/2005 7/22/2005
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL05000899-01 Roslyn N. Brooks v. Norfolk Circuit Court 10/27/2005 8/8/2007
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL06002919-00 Alphonso A. Clements Norfolk Circuit Court 5/26/2006 6/30/2006
Limited v. Maersk Line,
Limited
Maersk Line, CL06002919-01 Alphonso A. Clements Norfolk Circuit Court 10/23/2006 4/16/2007
Limited v. Maersk Line,
Limited
Maersk Line, CL06004876-00 Maersk Line, Limited Norfolk Circuit Court 9/14/2006 1/4/2007
Limited v. York-Mahar Inc
Maersk Line, CL07004158-00 Mark Hoffler v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 7/10/2007 9/15/2008
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL08001371-00 Maersk Line, Limited Norfolk Circuit Court 2/29/2008 3/24/2010
Limited v. York-Mahar Inc
Maersk Line, CL12002799-00 Hector Sanchez v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002800-00 Mario Clotter v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002801-00 Miguel Ruiz v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002802-00 Clifford Lacon v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002803-00 Richard Hicks v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/20/2012
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002804-00 Andrew Brzezinski v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002805-00 Mohamed Abdelwaham v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/8/2012
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002808-00 Husain Salah v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12002809-00 Jimmy Sabga v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 4/9/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL17006906-00 Ramon Sanchez Castillo Norfolk Circuit Court 6/16/2017 11/3/2021
Limited v. Maersk Line,
Limited
Maersk Line, CL21014539-00 Terry L. Franklin v. Norfolk Circuit Court 11/30/2021 2/8/2023
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL22005545-00 Herbert Hyde v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 4/29/2022 3/27/2023
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL22006722-00 D'Andre Turner v. Norfolk Circuit Court 5/26/2022 9/7/2022
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL08003825-00 Denise Russell v. Norfolk Circuit Court 6/16/2008 5/26/2009
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL07002958-00 Denise Russell v. Norfolk Circuit Court 5/15/2007 5/15/2008
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL98001501-00 Richard C. Sequist v. Norfolk Circuit Court 6/11/1998 8/9/1999
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12001616-00 ATM Reza v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 2/28/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL12001617-00 John Cronan v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 2/28/2012 11/15/2012
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL17011063-00 Randy L. Bowman v. Norfolk Circuit Court 9/29/2017 4/9/2019
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL19004751-00 Kenneth C. Sumner v. Norfolk Circuit Court 5/20/2019 10/14/2021
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL19006610-00 Samuel Garrett v. Norfolk Circuit Court 6/27/2019 12/22/2021
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL20001300-00 Allan D. Bombita v. Norfolk Circuit Court 1/30/2020 6/24/2021
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL20010003-00 David James v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 11/16/2020 4/12/2023
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL21002890-00 Selina s. Vaughan v. Norfolk Circuit Court 3/11/2021 2/4/2022
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL21009330-00 Allan D. Bombita v. Norfolk Circuit Court 8/27/2021 2/16/2022
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL21012747-00 Philip Parisi v. Norfolk Circuit Court 10/20/2021 11/10/2022
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL22014560-00 Shawn Hughley v. Norfolk Circuit Court 10/26/2022 12/1/2023
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL23006096-00 Elias Bonefont v. Norfolk Circuit Court 4/21/2023 10/16/2023
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL24006953-00 Merley Ford v. Maersk Norfolk Circuit Court 6/24/2024 Active
Limited Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL97002718-00 John H. Batson v. Norfolk Circuit Court 8/11/1997 8/18/1999
Limited Maersk Line, Limited
Maersk Line, CL11002579-00 Marvin Porter v. Portsmouth Circuit 8/22/2011 1/3/2013
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, CL05000112-00 Jeffrey L. Mayberry v. Portsmouth Circuit 1/25/2005 1/20/2006
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, CL09000576-00 Christopher T. Hale v. Portsmouth Circuit 3/5/2009 5/2/2011
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, CL09000576-01 Christopher T. Hale v. Portsmouth Circuit 2/24/2014 2/18/2016
Limited Maersk Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, CL96002273-00 Donald Sneed v. Maersk Portsmouth Circuit 11/26/1996 2/20/1998
Limited Line, Limited Court
Maersk Line, CL97001011-00 John Batson v. Maersk Portsmouth Circuit 6/9/1997 7/25/1997
Limited Line, Limited Court
______
Addendum to the questionnaire submitted to the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation, 119th Congress by Stephen
Carmel.
Upon further review, I have identified additional information that
is responsive to multiple questions on the Committee's questionnaire.
The information is disclosed below and separated by question.
For Part A, Question 8, please find the following employment date
adjustments:
President, U.S. Marine Management*** (2023-Present)
Various positions, Maersk Line Limited (1990-2023)
Senior Vice President, U.S. Marine Management (1997-
2023)
Member, Board of Directors (1997-2005)
Vice President of Finance, U.S. Marine Management
(1995-1997)
Program Manager, U.S. Marine Management (1990-1995)
Master, Marine Overseas Corp. (1985-1990)
Ship Officer, Military Sealift Command U.S. Navy (1979-1985)
***In 2023, U.S. Marine Management was a division of Maersk Line
Limited, but was spun off in 2023.
Note: All positions listed were/are managerial.
For Part A, Question 11, please find the following additional
memberships:
Member, Yorktown Institute Advisory Board (2020-Present)
American Bureau of Shipping (2005-Present)
Naval Studies Board, National Academies of Science (2016 -
2021)
Marine Board, National Academies of Sciences (2009-2014)
Hydrographic Services Review Panel, NOAA (2009-2014)
Chief of Naval Operations Executive Panel (N00K) (2004-2016)
For Part A, Question 17 please find the following additional
authored content:
A Commercial Approach to Sea Basing-Afloat Forward Staging
Bases, US Naval Institute (2004)
Transformation Implications of Sea Basing for Commercial
Shipping, Defense Transportation Journal (2004) (no hyperlink
or digital copy found)
Study of Parametric Rolling Event on a Panamax Container
Vessel, Transportation Research Record Journal of the
Transportation Research Board (2006)
Fighting Piracy and Protecting National Interests, George
Washington University Homeland Security Policy Institute (2009)
The Big Myth of Somali Pirates, U.S. Naval Institute (2010)
The Cold, Hard Realities of Arctic Shipping, U.S. Naval
Institute (2013)
Globalization, Security, and Economic Well-Being, Naval War
College Review (2013)
Arctic Force Structure: What an Arctic Fleet Might Look
Like, Hoover Institute (2014)
The U.S. Navy Needs Tankers: A Crisis in Capability,
GCaptain (2023)
Contagion in the Transpacific Shipping Network:
International Networks and Vulnerability Interdependence,
International Interactions (2023)
It's Not Just DeepSeek China is After, RealClear Defense
(2025)
For Part A, Question 18, please find additional presentations and
panel discussions
Presentation: Global Interdependence, Vulnerability, and
Terrorism: Simulating the Containership Shipping Network,
Annual Convention of the International Studies Association
(2008) (no digital copy or hyperlink available)
Presentation: Maritime Security Challenges, 4th Maritime
Security Challenges Conference (2010)
Panel: Transportation Research Board, Safe Navigation in the
U.S. Arctic, Breakout Group on Shipping Operations/Traffic
Regulation Schemes (2012) (no digital copy or hyperlink found)
Presentation: Maritime Security, Globalization and Navy
Strategy, NWDC Speaker Series (2012)
Presentation: The Uncertainty of the ``Made In'' Label in
Today's Global Economy, Volpe National Transportation Systems
Center (2012) (no digital copy or hyperlink found)
Panel: The Arctic on the Agenda Forum 2013 Conference,
Arctic Forum Foundation (2013)
Panel: America's Arctic Economic Ambitions: Opportunities
and Limitations, Center for Strategic & International Studies
(2017)
Panel: The Supply Chain Crisis 2.0, Baltimore Council on
Foreign Affairs (2022)
For Part A, Question 19, please find the following additional
public statements:
Maersk Backs Away from U.S. Military Contracts, GCaptian
(2023)
Why the U.S. Military Has to Hitch a Ride on Commercial
Ships, Wall Street Journal (2024)
For Part C, Question 3, please find the following additional cases
for disclosure:
U.S. Coast Guard Fine Maersk Line Limited $10k for Violating
46 USC Sec. 10104 (2010)
Maersk Line to Pay $31.9 Million to Resolve False Claims
Allegations for Inflated Shipping Costs to Military in
Afghanistan and Iraq, U.S. Department of Justice (2012)
Maersk Line Limited Settles Alleged Contract Fraud for $8.7
Million, Southern District of Illinois (2014)
U.S. Department of Labor Finds Maersk Line Limited
Retaliated Against Seaman who Reported Safety Concerns to U.S.
Coast Guard, U.S. Department of Labor (2023)
Chairman Cruz. Thank you. I now recognize Ms. DiBella for
her opening.
STATEMENT OF LAURA DiBELLA, NOMINEE TO BE A COMMISSIONER, U.S.
FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION
Ms. DiBella. Chair Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and
members of the Committee, good morning and thank you for the
opportunity to appear here before you today as a nominee to be
Commissioner of the Federal Maritime Commission. A sincere
thank you, as well, for the courtesies that your staff extended
to me throughout the nomination process.
I would like to recognize FMC Commissioners Dye, Maffei,
and Vekich, and thank them for being here in supportive
attendance. And most importantly, I would like to thank
President Trump for nominating me for this most important role.
It is with great pleasure, humility, and honor to be
nominated for this position as well as a homecoming of sorts to
the maritime industry for me. In 2017, while spearheading local
economic development in Nassau County, Florida, I was
approached to wear a second hat and stand in temporarily as
Port Director at the Port of Fernandina, a small and often
overlooked seaport surrounded by renown juggernauts named
JAXPORT and the Port of Savannah. The port was going through a
rough transition and had little resources to spare for a
qualified Port Director. I knew very little about ports back
then, except for the fact that they were vital economic engines
to a region and state, and because of that, and without
hesitation and compensation, I willingly took on the role.
Little did I know at the time that the decision to support
the port was one that would change the trajectory of my life
and career forever. What began as a temporary assignment
resulted in a two and a half year journey that put me at ground
zero of seaport operations, port authority governance, and the
integration of a port within the economic development space and
overall supply chain network. The knowledge I gained while
serving dual roles greatly enhanced my economic development
capabilities and afforded me the opportunity to form lasting
relationships with past and present, and hopefully future,
members of the Maritime Administration team and that of the
maritime community at large.
In the fall of 2019, I was approached about the Executive
Director role for the Florida Harbor Pilots Association, a
full-time position that never existed in the organization's
150-plus year history, that put the livelihoods of Florida's
nearly 100 harbor pilots in my hands. I dove headfirst into the
job and learned at the most intimate level about an aspect of
the maritime industry that very few outsiders have the
privilege of seeing.
Before long, we were met with the COVID-19 pandemic
shutdown, which dealt a massive blow to Florida as the self-
proclaimed ``Cruise Capital of the World,'' with the cessation
of cruise activity for nearly a year and a half and resulting
supply chain crisis which upended their world and exposed every
element of the fragile transportation network that we rely upon
day in and day out.
If that wasn't enough, we were also heavily engaged in
blocking a potentially precedent-setting citizens' initiative
at the Port of Key West that could have had broad implications
around the restriction of cargo across other seaports around
the country and world. The measure served as a stark reminder
that ports, although local in nature, are truly global in
principle and must be viewed and protected as such.
In the summer of 2022, I was appointed Secretary of
Commerce of Florida along with President and CEO of Enterprise
Florida and entrusted with maintaining and growing what was
then the state's $1.5 trillion economy, and once again had the
pleasure of working with all 16 of Florida's seaports in a
larger economic development capacity. As the third-largest
state in the Nation and 16th-largest economy in the world, it
was then that I also engaged heavily in international trade
discussions with key trading partners around the globe as well
as economic development efforts involving the newest mode of
transportation to intersect with maritime, which is the
incredibly exciting space industry.
I say all of this in the hopes to demonstrate not only my
hands-on experience, knowledge, and unique perspective of the
maritime space, but also my sincere passion and commitment to
the industry. If my past superiors had enough faith in me not
only to do the job at hand but do it well, I hope so can you.
More than anything, however, I hope my past shows just how
dedicated I am to the economic and security interests of this
great country.
If I am confirmed as a Commissioner of the FMC, I will
uphold the statutory directives of the Ocean Shipping Reform
Act of 2022 and ensure that the economic and homeland security
needs of our country are always at the forefront of every
discussion. I promise to be fair-minded and objective when
collaborating with my fellow Commissioners and FMC staff to
positively contribute to the FMC's vital and growing mission. I
will work to eliminate unfair shipping practices by foreign
governments and do everything in my power to guarantee that
shippers, common carriers, ocean transport intermediaries, and
ports regulated by the FMC are provided with a fair market
environment in which to operate.
Thank you again for the honor and privilege to sit before
you today and for your hopeful support. I look forward to
working with all of you.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of Ms.
DiBella follow:]
Prepared Statement of Laura DiBella, Nominee to be a Commissioner,
U.S. Federal Maritime Commission
Chair Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and members of the Committee,
good morning and thank you for the opportunity to appear here before
you today as a nominee to be Commissioner of the Federal Maritime
Commission (FMC).
A sincere thank you as well as for the courtesies that your staff
extended to me throughout the nomination process. I would like to
recognize FMC Commissioners, Dye, Maffei, and Vekich and thank them for
being here in supportive attendance. And most importantly, I would like
to thank President Trump for nominating me for this most important
role.
It is with great pleasure, humility, and honor to be nominated for
this position as well as a homecoming of sorts to the maritime industry
for me. In 2017, while spearheading local economic development in
Nassau County, Florida, I was approached to wear a second hat and stand
in temporarily as Port Director at the Port of Fernandina, Ocean
Highway and Port Authority of Nassau County, a small and often
overlooked seaport surrounded by renown juggernauts named JAXPORT, Port
of Brunswick, and Port of Savannah. The port was going through a rough
transition with its sole terminal operator and had little resources to
spare for a qualified Port Director. I knew very little about ports
back then, except for the fact that they were vital economic engines to
a region and state, and because of that, and without hesitation and
compensation, I willingly took on the role.
Little did I know at the time that the decision to support the port
was one that would change the trajectory of my life and career forever.
What began as a temporary assignment resulted in a two-and-a-half-year
journey that put me at ground zero of seaport operations, port
authority governance, and the integration of a port within the economic
development space and overall supply chain network. The knowledge I
gained while serving dual roles greatly enhanced my economic
development capabilities and afforded me the opportunity to form
lasting relationships with past and present members of the maritime
administration team and that of the maritime community at large.
In the fall of 2019, I was approached about the Executive Director
role for the Florida Harbor Pilots Association, a full-time position
that never existed in the organization's 150+ year history, that that
put the livelihoods of Florida's nearly 100 harbor pilots in my hands.
I dove headfirst into the job and learned at the most intimate level
about an aspect of the maritime industry that very few outsiders have
the privilege of seeing. Before long, we were met with the COVID-19
pandemic shutdown, which dealt a massive blow to Florida as the self-
proclaimed ``Cruise Capital of the World'' with the cessation of cruise
activity for nearly a year and a half and resulting supply chain crisis
which upended their world and exposed every element of the fragile
transportation framework that we rely upon day in and day out.
If that wasn't enough, we were also heavily engaged in blocking a
potentially precedent setting citizens' initiative at the Port of Key
West that could have had broad implications around the restriction of
cargo across other seaports around the country and world. The measure
served as a stark reminder that ports, although local in nature, are
truly global in principle and must be viewed and protected as such.
In the summer of 2022, I was appointed Secretary of Commerce of
Florida along with President and CEO of Enterprise Florida and
entrusted with maintaining and growing what was then the state's $1.5
trillion economy, and once again had the pleasure of working with all
16 of Florida's seaports in a larger economic development capacity. As
the third largest state in the nation and 16th largest economy in the
world, it was then that I also engaged heavily in international trade
discussions with key trading partners around the globe as well as
economic development efforts involving the newest mode of
transportation to intersect with maritime, which is the incredibly
exciting space industry.
I say all of this in the hopes to demonstrate not only my hands on
experience, knowledge, and unique perspective of the maritime space,
but also my sincere passion and commitment to the industry. If all my
past superiors had enough faith in me not only to do the job at hand,
but do it well, I hope so can you. More than anything, however, I hope
my past shows just how dedicated I am to the economic and security
interests of this great country.
If I am confirmed as a Commissioner of the FMC, I will uphold the
statutory directives of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 and
ensure that the economic and homeland security needs of our country are
always at the forefront of every discussion. I promise to be fair-
minded and objective when collaborating with my fellow Commissioners
and FMC staff to positively contribute to the FMC's vital and growing
mission. I will work to eliminate unfair shipping practices by foreign
governments and do everything in my power to guarantee that shippers,
common carriers, ocean transportation intermediaries, and ports
regulated by the FMC are provided with a fair market environment in
which to operate.
Thank you again for the honor and privilege to sit before you today
and for your hopeful support. I look forward to working with all of
you.
______
a. biographical information
1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Laura Maria
DiBella.
2. Position to which nominated: Commissioner, Federal Maritime
Commission.
3. Date of Nomination: September 3, 2025.
4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):
Residence: Information not released to the public.
Office: Information not provided.
5. Date and Place of Birth: Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) or domestic partner, and the names and ages of your
children (including stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).
I am divorced. I have two stepdaughters: Jacqueline Healy, age
28, and Lillian Healy, age 24.
7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
the degree.
University of Florida, 1997-2001, B.S., Human Resource
Management (with an outside concentration in Business
Administration), awarded May 2001
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
* denotes management-level jobs and non-managerial jobs that relate
to the position for which I have been nominated.
02/2024 to present: Government Affairs Advisor, Adams & Reese
LLP*
08/2020 to present: President/CEO/Broker, CONN LLC, CONN
Florida LLC dba Laura DiBella Real Estate
07/2004 to present: President/CEO, LDB Marketing, Inc.
11/2023-2/2024: President of Business Development,
FloridaCommerce/Select Florida*
07/2022-11/2023: Secretary of Commerce/President/CEO,
Enterprise Florida, Florida Opportunity Fund*
11/2019-7/2022: Executive Director, Florida Harbor Pilots
Association*
05/2017-11/2019: Port Director, Port of Fernandina--Ocean
Highway and Port Authority of Nassau County*
10/2014-11/2019: Executive Director, Nassau County Economic
Development Board*
09/2009-09/2014: Director of Sales and Leasing, Florida Medical
Space
05/2001-09/2014: Sales and Marketing Representative, Enviro
Technologies, Inc.*
09/2006-09/2009: Sales Associate, Holly Real Estate
08/2002-08/2006: Co-Founder, Image Marketing & Special Events,
Inc.
01/2002-08/2006: Sales Associate, Coldwell Banker Real Estate
9. Attach a copy of your resume.
See Attachment A.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above after 18 years of age.
Present: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) Industry Advisory Committee Member, ``The Continuum''
Enterprise Accelerator
Present: Co-Chair of FDOT Florida Freight Advisory Committee
Present: University of Florida, Florida Semiconductor
Institute (FSI) Stakeholder Advisory Board
Present: University of Florida I-STREET Advisory Board
Member
Former: Vice Chair of Florida State College at Jacksonville
District Board of Trustees
Former: Volunteer as a certified guardian in Florida's 2nd
Judicial Circuit Guardian ad Litem Program
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution.
08/2020 to present: President/CEO/Broker, CONN LLC, CONN
Florida LLC dba Laura DiBella Real Estate
07/2004 to present: President/CEO, LDB Marketing, Inc.
07/2022-11/2023: Secretary of Commerce/President/CEO,
Enterprise Florida, Florida Opportunity Fund
03/2018-01/2023: Vice Chair of Florida State College at
Jacksonville District Board of Trustees
11/2019-07/2022: Executive Director, Florida Harbor Pilots
Association
05/2017-11/2019: Port Director, Port of Fernandina--Ocean
Highway and Port Authority of Nassau County
10/2014-11/2019: Executive Director, Nassau County Economic
Development Board
08/2002-08/2006: Co-Founder, Image Marketing & Special Events,
Inc.
01/2002-08/2006: Sales Associate, Coldwell Banker Real Estate
12. List all memberships you have had after 18 years of age or
currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
affiliated organization, private club, or other membership organization
(You do not have to list your religious affiliation or membership in a
religious house of worship or institution). Include dates of membership
and any positions you have held with any organization. Please note
whether any such club or organization restricts membership on the basis
of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, or disability.
07/2022 to present: Member, Economic Club of Florida
01/2020 to present: Member, Governors Club of Tallahassee
11/2011-12/2013: Member, Gate Governors Club
11/2011-12/2013: Member, TPC Sawgrass
11/2011-12/2013: Member, Sawgrass Country Club
11/2011-12/2013: Member, Marsh Landing Country Club
11/2011-12/2013: Member, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt.
03/2021 to present: Appointee, Co-Chair of FDOT Florida Freight
Advisory Committee (no outstanding debt)
07/2022-11/2023: Appointee, Secretary of Commerce/President/
CEO, Enterprise Florida, Florida Opportunity Fund (not liable
for debt post separation)
03/2018-01/2023: Appointee, Former Vice Chair of Florida State
College at Jacksonville District Board of Trustees (not liable
for debt post separation)
05/2017-11/2019: Appointee, Former Port Director, Port of
Fernandina--Ocean Highway and Port Authority of Nassau County
(not liable for debt post separation)
14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. Not Applicable.
15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $200 or more for the past ten years. Not Applicable.
16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements. Not Applicable.
17. List all books, articles, columns, letters to the editor,
Internet blog postings, or other publications you have authored,
individually or with others. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
publication when available.
Below is an article I was asked to write for the Harvard Kennedy
School Taubman Center for State and Local Government after speaking
with the students about pursuing a career in economic development.
Part-Time Economic Developer and Conductor--How Growing an
Economy Can Resemble Leading an Orchestra | Harvard Kennedy
School
18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
speech or presentation when available.
CoMotion MIAMI '23--Keynote by Laura DiBella, President &
CEO, Enterprise Florida
Taking Action For A Resilient Global Supply Chain--YouTube
19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
years, including statements in news articles and radio and podcasts and
television appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position
for which you have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to
each statement when possible. If a link is not available, provide a
digital copy of the statement when available.
I am a regular guest on the Ed Dean Morning Show, a
conservative talk radio show that is the number one syndicated
show in Florida. I am the resident expert on Florida's economy
and economic development matters that impact the state. I have
appeared as a guest on the show on: November 14, 2024; January
21, 2025; February 13, 2025; February 27, 2025; March 4, 2025;
March 13, 2025; March 24, 2025; April 3, 2025; April 9, 2025;
April 29, 2025; May 8, 2025; May 15, 2025; June 2, 2025; June
30, 2025; July 21, 2025; July 30, 2025; and August 12, 2025.
Revitalizing Shipbuilding and the Blue Economy with Laura
DiBella | Yachting USA
Business of Maritime: Laura DiBella on Port Operations,
Industry Challenges & Growth | YACHTING USA
Port Perspectives--Laura DiBella, Adams & Reese
Ep.141 Boosting Business: Unveiling Florida's Blueprint for
Technology & Leadership Innovation
Engaging with Maritime & Economics Expert, Laura DiBella
Logistics of seaports and spaceports with NASA and FHPA
Revitalizing Shipbuilding and the Blue Economy with Laura
DiBella | Yachting USA
Business of Maritime: Laura DiBella on Port Operations,
Industry Challenges & Growth | YACHTING USA
Port Perspectives--Laura DiBella, Adams & Reese
Engaging with Maritime & Economics Expert, Laura DiBella
Logistics of seaports and spaceports with NASA and FHPA
20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible.
LinkedIn (active): www.linkedin.com/in/lauradibella
Facebook (active): https://www.facebook.com/laura.dibella
Twitter (active): Laura DiBella (@FollowMeToFL)/X
Twitter (dormant): Laura DiBella (@thelauradibella)/X
Instagram (active): Laura DiBella (@followmetofl)
Instagram photos and videos
Instagram (dormant): LDB (@thelauradibella) Instagram
photos and videos
Truth Social (dormant): lauradibella (@lauradibella) | Truth
Social
21. Identify each instance in which you have testified orally or in
writing before Congress in a governmental or non-governmental capacity
and specify the date, committee, and subject matter of each testimony.
Not Applicable.
22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the Federal Maritime Commission, what in your
background or employment experience do you believe affirmatively
qualifies you for appointment to the position for which you have been
nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that position?
I believe that my background and employment experience
affirmatively qualifies me for appointment to the Commission because I
have first-hand experience with the major drivers of the economy, which
include land, air, and maritime transportation, and the way these modes
intersect. I have been both an on-the-ground practitioner and a leader
in the economic development and maritime spaces at both the local and
state level. I understand how crucial it is to make every cog in the
supply chain wheel not only work but work in a very efficient manner.
I wish to serve in this position because I love the maritime
industry and believe that it is very misunderstood and, therefore, in a
way inadvertently unappreciated. I have always said that economic
development would not exist in the absence of seaport activity because
there are not enough planes, trains, or automobiles to move the vast
quantity of cargo that is transported over water. With this
appointment, I hope to play a part in helping reframe the U.S. economic
revival around the central need for maritime dominance.
23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the Federal Maritime Commission has proper management and
accounting controls, and what experience do you have in managing a
large organization?
I believe my responsibilities, if confirmed, to ensure that the
Federal Maritime Commission has proper management and accounting
controls is paramount to carry out our mission and, most importantly,
that of the President. I have held several leadership roles of
differing capacities and my time as Secretary of Commerce/President and
CEO of Enterprise Florida was the largest organization I have managed
to date, with 78 FTE employees and $21.8 million budget. Florida is the
third largest state in the Nation and roughly the 15th largest economy
in the world at $1.76 trillion GDP at present. Putting the above in
perspective against our competitive states with much larger budgets
(California with the first largest budget, and Texas with the second
largest budget), running a very successful statewide economic
development organization with a total budget (including salaries) of
$21.8 million meant that we had to be lean and mean and a very
efficient, well-oiled machine. I consider myself a servant leader and
lead by example while fostering an honest, healthy, open,
collaborative, driven, and winning environment where accountability,
passion, integrity, and purpose at all levels reigns supreme.
24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
Federal Maritime Commission, and why?
The top three challenges facing the Federal Maritime Commission
today are, first, maritime choke points around the world, of which
there are many. The areas of highest concern in today's global climate
would include the Strait of Hormuz, Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, Strait of
Malacca, Suez Canal, Panama Canal, Strait of Gibraltar, the English
Channel, and I would also include the Bering Strait. With 90 percent of
global trade transiting by sea, the use of efficient and well-
positioned maritime shipping lanes is essential to reduce transport
costs and also, very importantly, allow for the safe passage of
warships. In line with the choke points, are growing concerns about
restrictions on, and attacks against, certain U.S. and international
vessel traffic at global seaports for ideological reasons. It is of
great importance to note that actions restricting the free flow of
American goods for ideological reasons can disrupt our global supply
chains and lead to significantly negative economic consequences. The
targeted attacks on commercial vessels by non-state actors like the
Houthis in the Red Sea are a prime example of this. These attacks have
significantly disrupted global trade by forcing shipping companies to
reroute vessels. There have also been significant threats to critical
infrastructure, like undersea pipelines and data cables, creating
additional political pressure and disrupting services by attacking
critical infrastructure at sea.
Second, flags of convenience (FOC) pose a challenge to general
maritime safety protocols from both the commercial and mariner
perspectives, and unfortunately best practices can be very difficult to
enforce. FOC's refers to open registries allowing a shipowner to
register a vessel in a country other than the one in which the owner is
based. This is done to take advantage of lower costs and lax
regulations, which creates numerous issues related to safety, labor,
and environmental protection. The use of FOC's allows shipowners to
operate with minimal oversight and accountability. This practice is
linked to illicit activities and creates or worsens negative
consequences for global supply chains and critical infrastructure. Key
issues associated with flags of convenience include the exploitation of
labor with numerous safety risks to seafarers, which only further
damages the reputation of the maritime industry from a recruitment
standpoint. FOC registries are often criticized for minimal oversight
and for allowing substandard vessel maintenance and safety practices,
which put crews and the environment at risk. They also can allow
shipowners to remain legally anonymous through the use of shell
companies, complicating accountability for crimes or environmental
violations like illegal trafficking of drugs and arms, human
trafficking, and sanctions evasion. The use of FOCs contributes to the
formation of ``shadow fleets,'' whose owners hide their identities and
use deceptive practices to circumvent international sanctions.
Lastly, the climate change framework brought forth by the
International Maritime Organization (IMO) and other measures aimed at
reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the global shipping industry has
been a tightening noose around the neck of the maritime industry for
quite some time. Measures like these would not only increase costs for
Americans; they also threaten to reduce the efficient movement of
vessels, further complicating the operations of the global supply
chain.
b. potential conflicts of interest
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts, such as a 401(k) or pension plan. Not Applicable.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association, or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain. Not Applicable.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
resolve each potential conflict of interest. Not Applicable.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
each potential conflict of interest. Not Applicable.
5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest and explain
how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest. Not
Applicable.
6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
execution of law or public policy.
a. During Florida's 2021 Legislative Session, while employed with
the Florida Harbor Pilots Association, I collaborated and
supported the drafting, execution, and successful passing of
Florida Senate Bill 1194 to protect Florida's ability to
conduct international trade and welcome tourists. The Florida
Senate Bill 1194 was signed into law on June 30, 2021.
b. In May 2020, while employed by the Florida Harbor Pilots
Association, I assisted in the drafting of the U.S. Coast Guard
Sector Mobile First-Class Licensing Policy for the Port of
Pensacola and Pensacola Bay Pilots on Pilotage Special
Requirements.
c. legal matters
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
Counsel, an Inspector General, professional association, disciplinary
committee, or other professional group? If yes:
a. Provide the name of the court, agency, association, committee, or
group;
b. Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action was issued or initiated;
c. Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action;
d. Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
complaint, or personnel action.
No.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, municipal, or foreign government entity, other than for
a minor traffic offense? If so, please explain. No.
3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
explain. No.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain. No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
assault, sexual harassment, or discrimination on the basis of sex,
race, religion, whistleblower activity, or any other basis? If so,
please explain. No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination. No.
d. relationship with committee
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation complies with deadlines for information set by
congressional committees, and that your department/agency/commission/
corporation endeavors to timely comply with requests for information
from individual Members of Congress, including requests from members in
the minority?
If confirmed, I will work with my fellow Commissioners to ensure
that the Federal Maritime Commission complies with deadlines for
information set by congressional committees, and that the FMC endeavors
to timely comply with requests for information from individual Members
of Congress, including requests from members in the minority.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation does whatever it can to protect congressional witnesses and
whistleblowers from reprisal for their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
5. Do you agree, if confirmed, to keep this Committee, its
subcommittees, other appropriate Committees of Congress, and their
respective staffs apprised of new information that materially impacts
the accuracy of testimony, briefings, reports, records--including
documents and electronic communications, and other information you or
your organization previously provided?
I agree, if confirmed, to keep this Committee, its subcommittees,
other appropriate Committees of Congress, and their respective staffs
apprised of new information that materially impacts the accuracy of
testimony, briefings, reports, records--including documents and
electronic communications, and other information me or my organization
previously provided.
6. Do you agree, if confirmed, and on request, to provide this
Committee and its subcommittees with records and other information
within their oversight jurisdiction, even absent a formal Committee
request?
I agree, if confirmed, and on request, to provide this Committee
and its subcommittees with records and other information within their
oversight jurisdiction, even absent a formal Committee request.
7. Do you agree, if confirmed, to ensure that you and other members
of your organization protect from retaliation any military member,
Federal employee, or contractor employee who testifies before, or
communicates with this Committee, its subcommittees, and any other
appropriate committee of Congress?
I agree, if confirmed, to ensure that me and other members of my
organization protect from retaliation any military member, Federal
employee, or contractor employee who testifies before, or communicates
with this Committee, its subcommittees, and any other appropriate
committee of Congress.
______
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
______
Addendum to the questionnaire submitted to the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation, 119th Congress
Upon further review, I have identified additional information that
is responsive to questions C.3, E.4 and E.1 on the Committee's
questionnaire. Please see attached Addendum.
The undersigned certifies that the information contained in the
public addendum is true and correct.
Laura DiBella Addendum
September 24, 2025
C.3, E.4: I was a defendant in a civil lawsuit captioned American
Express Centurion Bank v. Di Bella, Laura, Case No. 50-2009-CA-013503,
filed on 04/10/2009 in Palm Beach County, Florida regarding an
outstanding credit card debt. This case was resolved and has been
closed as of 12/17/2012.
______
Addendum to the questionnaire submitted to the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation, 119th Congress by Laura DiBella.
Upon further review, I have identified the following additional
information that are responsive to questions A.8, A.15, A.18, A.19, and
Part A, Q10 on the Committee's questionnaire. They are:
A.8 - I am the President of an entity called Sweat Sisters
LLC, which was created on 4/12/2013 for when I was a running
coach. I do not coach any longer and have not for many years as
I simply do not have the time to dedicate to the effort, so the
entity is in effect, inactive.
A.15--I have identified political contributions that were
inadvertently not disclosed and are listed below. Please note
that with the exception of the Republican Party of Florida
contribution, the Hillary for America contribution and Nancy
Soderberg contribution were associated with events that I had
attended with my now ex-husband (Edmund Andrus Healy) who was a
registered Democrat.
12/9/2019--Republican Party of Florida, $1,050
3/7/16--Hillary for America, $500
9/28/12--Nancy Soderberg (FL), $500
A.18 - My current and previous positions were very outward
facing and therefore required me to participate in frequent
speaking engagements. I have identified panels and other
speaking engagements that were previously not disclosed. They
are listed here:
4/6/2016--Panel--Women Making the Deals CREW
Jacksonville (no hyperlink available)
1/18/2018--Speech--Men's Newcomers Club, Fernandina
Beach Golf Club (no hyperlink available)
9/16/2020--Speech--Propeller Club Port of Washington,
DC (no hyperlink available)
10/6/2020--Speech--Propeller Club Port of Jacksonville
(no hyperlink available)
11/16/2020--Speech--Propeller Club Port of
Jacksonville (no hyperlink available)
11/17/2020--Panel--Florida Seaports: Focused on the
Future
2/22/2022--Speech--Florida Harbor Pilots Association
Annual Maritime Industry Awards Night (no hyperlink
available)
10/25/2022--Panel--Chamber Forum: Manufacturing,
logistics are key to continued economic success
3/21/2023--Speech--Beth Cicchetti of the Floria
Economic Development Council and Laura DiBella of
Enterprise Florida, NEBA
4/18/2023--Speech--P3 Airport Summit Keynote (no
hyperlink available)
4/21/2023--Panel--eMerge
5/19/2023--Speech--2023 Florida Supply Chain Summit
6/13/2023--Panel--CCIM Conference (no hyperlink
available)
9/21/2023--Speech--LEAD Annual Dinner
9/25/2023--Speech--Clay FL Economic Development
Corporation Q3 2023 Presentation
10/12/2023--Panel--Gainesville Innovation Summit 2023
10/19/2023--Speech--LBC with Laura DiBella intro,
Leadership Business Council
10/25/2023--Speech--LeverX Third Annual Innovation
Forum, Business Wire (no hyperlink available)
11/8/2023--Panel--Taking Action For a Resilient Global
Supply Chain, Port Miami Global Gateway World Strategic
Forum
1/15/2024--Speech--Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce of
North America (no hyperlink available)
2/16/2024--Speech--Volusia County Economic Development
``Q'' Breakfast
3/22/2024--Speech--Jacksonville Venture
4/11/2024, Speech--Port Perspectives--Laura DiBella,
Adams & Reese, International Association of Maritime & Port
Executives
4/18/2024, Speech--Taubman Center, Harvard Kennedy
School (no hyperlink available)
9/5/2024--Panel--Israel and Miami: The U.S.
Destination for Startup Nation, eMerge Americas
9/11/2024--Panel--Florida Supply Chain Summit (no
hyperlink available)
9/18/2024--Panel--South Florida Innovation Day, Alan
B. Levan, NSU Broward Center of innovation (no hyperlink
available)
10/10/2024--Panel--America Decides 2024: Elections
Have Consequences: Harris/Walz vs. Trump/Vance,
Transportation Club of Jacksonville (no hyperlink
available, event was cancelled due to Hurricane Milton)
1/31/2025--Speech--2025 Economic Forecast, Nassau
County Economic Development Board (no hyperlink available)
A.19--In tandem with A.18, I have made public statements
that were previously not disclosed. They are as follows:
4/9/2015--Article--Workspace: Laura DiBella enjoys
bringing Nassau County to the closing table | Jax Daily
Record
9/2016--Article--Around the State Northeast, Looking
up: A major development project is shifting attention north
of Jacksonville, FloridaTrend
1/26/2018--Article--The seeds for growth, Jacksonville
Business Journal
6/30/2019--Podcast--The Exciting Future of Nassau
County: An Interview with Laura DiBella, The Miller Report
8/12/2019--Article--https://www.postandcourier.com/
business/charleston
-green-gas-company-investing-in-renewable-energy/
article_27059232-b7b7-
11e9-9a13-e3c674363822.html
10/31/2019--Article--https://www.bizjournals.com/
jacksonville/news/2019/
10/31/laura-dibella-talks-nassau-countys-struggle-to.html
9/23/2021--Podcast--MotivationU the Podcast
2/25/2022--Podcast--Logistics of Seaports and
spaceports with NASA and FHPA, What the Truck?!?,
FreightWaves
7/24/2022--Podcast--Engaging with Maritime & Economics
Expert, Laura DiBella, Round Table Group
11/8/2022--Article--https://www.flgov.com/eog/news/
press/2022/florida
-ranks-1-nation-attracting-and-developing-skilled-
workforce#: :text=Governor
%20Ron%20DeSantis%20announced%20this%20ranking%20as,best%20s
tate
%20to%20learn%2C%20work%20and%20live
2/6/2023--Article--Enterprise Florida Board of
Directors Confirms Laura DiBella as President and CEO,
Florida Trend
3/17/2023--Article--Laura DiBella: Northeast Florida
is the right spot
3/18/2023--Podcast--TechTables Podcast
5/9/2023--Podcast--Synapse Summit, Synapse Podcast
5/15/2023--Article--OPEN FOR BUSINESS: Flagler County
welcomes new manufacturing plant for India's Vidya Herbs
The Daytona Beach
5/23/2023--Article--The National Security Importance
of the Jones Act Recognized on National Maritime Day MENAFN
5/24/2023--Article--https://www.cosentino.com/usa/
blog/cosentino-group
-announces-investment-in-florida-plan-to-expand-
manufacturing-to-north-america/
5/30/2023--Article--As agency changes, outgoing
Florida commerce secretary talks incentives, space and more
Jacksonville Business Journal
6/1/2023--Article--Laura DiBella: Florida's Tech
Bloom, Florida Funders Skin in the Game VC Podcast
7/17/2023--Podcast--John D. Villarreal Show #5
9/13/2023--Podcast--Sunshine Startups Live Episode 4:
Laura DiBella--President and CEO of Enterprise Florida,
Levan Center Live
9/28/2023--Article--Enterprise Florida Exiting, Florida
Trend
10/2/2023--Article--Doors closing on Enterprise Florida
Backroom Briefing, Orlando Sentinel
2/19/2024--Article--https://floridapolitics.com/archives/
60005-sunburn-the-morning-read-of-whats-hot-in-florida-
politics-2-19-24/
1/26/2024--Article--Nassau economic development forum:
`Money follows the innovation' News Leader
Part A, Q10--Below is the list of advisory,
consultative, honorary, or other part-time service or
positions with Federal, State, or local governments to
which I have served after 18 years of age (dates added):
3/2018-1/2023: Vice Chair of Florida State College at
Jacksonville District Board of Trustees
2/2021 to present: Volunteer as a certified guardian in
Florida's 2nd Judicial Circuit Guardian ad Litem Program
3/2021 to present: Co-Chair of FDOT Florida Freight Advisory
Committee
10/2023 to present: University of Florida I-STREET Advisory
Board Member
3/2025 to present: National Oceanic & Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) Industry Advisory Committee Member, ``The
Continuum'' Enterprise Accelerator
5/2025 to present: University of Florida, Florida
Semiconductor Institute (FSI) Stakeholder Advisory Board
Chairman Cruz. Thank you. I now recognize Mr. Harvey for
his opening statement.
STATEMENT OF ROBERT HARVEY, NOMINEE TO BE A COMMISSIONER,
FEDERAL MARITIME COMMISSION
Mr. Harvey. Thank you. Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member
Cantwell, and members of the Committee, it is an honor to
appear before you today as a nominee to be Commissioner of the
Federal Maritime Commission. I also want to thank your
respective staff for all their efforts and the professionalism
shown to me during the nomination process.
I would like to thank Commissioners Dye, Vekich, and Maffei
for meeting with me during the confirmation process and for
today's hearing. I would like to recognize my wife, Debra
Jenks, who has been my law partner, is my life partner, and has
fully supported me in my desire to return to public service.
Finally, I would like to thank President Trump for the honor of
nominating me today.
If confirmed, I look forward to continuing the important
work of the FMC at this critical time for the United States
ocean transportation system and supply chain. I will work to
ensure that the FMC maintains a competitive and reliable
international ocean transportation system and protects U.S.
consumers, exporters, and importers from unlawful, unfair, and
deceptive ocean transportation practices.
For the past 3 years, I have been engaged in multiple
economic development roles in Florida. With 1,300 miles of
coastline, 16 public seaports, and 7 cruise ports, I have
gained an even greater appreciation for the maritime industry.
While I am a proud Floridian, I was born, raised, and
educated in Illinois. The first waterborne commerce I ever saw
was barge traffic, containing agriculture, coal, and bulk
goods, floating on the Des Plaines River, through the middle of
my hometown of Joliet.
The first large bulk carrier I ever saw was a laker. The
Great Lakes shipping industry supports tens of thousands of
jobs directly, and is a vital economic engine for the cities,
towns, and people, of the region. If confirmed, I look forward
to ensuring fair conditions for all U.S. shipping.
I began my career with the U.S. Navy, where I served on
active duty as a Navy Judge Advocate and Special Assistant U.S.
Attorney. After leaving active duty I served in the Reserves
with Amphibious Group 2, in Little Creek, Virginia, and with
the U.S. Naval Forces Europe, in London. One of the lesson
learned from my time in the Navy is that economic security and
national security are inseparable.
After leaving active duty I began my civilian law career in
private practice. After two years I had the opportunity to join
a startup. Not knowing what a startup was, I leapt at the
opportunity, moved to New York City, and ultimately became the
Senior Vice President and General Counsel. After being with
that company for 7 years and a successful exit, I have served
in various roles in law, business, finance, and public service.
Most recently I have been a partner of Jenks & Harvey, a
law firm in West Palm Beach, where my practice was concentrated
in securities litigation, arbitration, and regulation. I
returned to the public sector in November 2022, as the General
Counsel of Enterprise Florida, Florida's principal economic
development organization.
Today, I serve as President and Executive Director of the
Florida Opportunity Fund, Florida's venture capital fund. The
fund is a $180 million fund investing in Florida-based, new
technology companies. In terms of the maritime industry, we
have invested in cybersecurity companies that protect critical
assets including vessels, ports, and maritime infrastructure.
We have invested in companies that fuse real-time data with AI
to track maritime missions, improve operational efficiency at
sea and at shore. We have invested in logistics companies,
which provide multimodal, last-mile delivery solutions, which
reduces shipping time and costs. Currently we are reviewing
quantum solutions in the marine industry, enabling potential
breakthroughs in route and fleet optimization, sensing and
navigation, secure communication, and predictive maintenance.
Finally, I also serve as the Executive Director of the
Florida Development Finance Corporation. That is the state-
authorized issuer of industrial revenue bonds. In the last two
years, FDFC has issued over $8 billion of tax-exempt, taxable,
and private activity bonds. We are currently reviewing several
projects where private activity bonds may be used for marine
infrastructure, including ports, docks, wharves, and
manufacturing.
If confirmed, I believe that my over 35 years of diverse
experience in the military, legal and regulatory affairs,
business, investment and finance, technology, and economic
development will allow me to positively contribute to FMC's
vital mission.
In closing, Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and
members of the Committee, thank you very much for holding this
hearing today.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of Mr.
Harvey follow:]
Prepared Statement of Robert Harvey, Nominee to be a Commissioner,
U.S. Federal Maritime Commission
Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell and members of the
Committee, good morning and thank you for the opportunity to appear
here before you today as a nominee to be Commissioner of the Federal
Maritime Commission (FMC). I also want to thank your respective staff
for all their efforts and the professionalism shown to me during the
nomination process.
I would like to thank Commissioners Dye, Maffei, and Vekich for
meeting with me during the confirmation process and for attending
today's hearing. Most importantly, I would like to recognize my wife,
Debra, who has been my law partner, is my life partner, and has fully
supported me in my desire to return to public service. Finally, I would
like to thank President Trump for the honor of nominating me to be a
Commissioner of the FMC.
If confirmed, I will continue the important work of the FMC at this
critical time for the United States ocean transportation system and
supply chain.
I look forward to ensuring that FMC maintains a competitive and
reliable international ocean transportation system and protects U.S.
consumers, exporters and importers from unlawful, unfair, and deceptive
ocean transportation practices.
For the past three years, I have been engaged in multiple economic
development roles in Florida.
With 1300 miles of coastline, sixteen public seaports and seven
cruise ports, I have gained an even greater appreciation for the
maritime industry, supply chains, and port access, not only for Florida
but the entire country.
While I am a proud Floridian, I was born, raised, and educated in
Illinois.
The first water-borne commerce I ever saw was barge traffic,
containing agriculture, coal and bulk goods, floating on the Des
Plaines River, through the middle of my hometown of Joliet.
The first large bulk carrier I ever saw was a laker.
The Great Lakes shipping industry supports tens of thousands of
jobs directly, and is a vital economic engine for the cities, towns,
and people, of the region.
I will work to ensure fair conditions for the entire U.S. shipping
industry.
I began my career with the United States Navy, where I served on
active duty at Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois, as a Navy Judge
Advocate and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney. I also served on active
duty as Senior Defense Counsel and Senior Trial Counsel at Naval Legal
Service Office, Great Lakes.
After leaving active duty I served as a reservist with Amphibious
Group 2, Little Creek, Virginia and U.S. Naval Forces Europe, London,
United Kingdom.
The lesson learned from my time in the Navy is that economic
security and national security are inseparable. U.S. national security
protects our economic assets, including critical infrastructure, supply
chains, port access, and international trade routes, from both
traditional and emerging threats.
After leaving active duty I began my civilian law career in private
practice in Illinois. After two years I had the opportunity to join
startup Meridian VAT Reclaim North America in New York, New York, where
I became Meridian's Senior Vice President of Operations & General
Counsel. After Meridian was acquired in 1999, I served in various roles
as in law, business, investment management, finance, and public
service.
From 2015 to 2022, I was a Founding Partner of Jenks & Harvey LLP
in West Palm Beach, Florida, where my practice was concentrated in
securities litigation, arbitration, and regulation.
I returned to the public sector in November 2022 as the General
Counsel of Enterprise Florida, Inc., Florida's principal economic
development organization.
Today, I serve as President and Executive Director of the Florida
Opportunity Fund, Inc. (FOF). FOF is a $180 million venture capital
fund which invests in Florida-based, new technology companies. These
investments have been crucial in supporting new businesses, creating
jobs in Florida, and further diversifying the state's economy. FOF
focuses on technology sectors that are strategic to Florida including
artificial intelligence, life sciences, information technology,
advanced manufacturing processes, aviation and aerospace, homeland
security and defense, and cybersecurity, among other strategic areas.
Related to FMC's mission, FOF has invested in (1) cybersecurity/
information technology companies that protect critical infrastructure;
including vessels, ports and marine infrastructure; (2) companies that
fuse real-time data with artificial intelligence to monitor maritime
emissions and improve operational efficiency, at sea and ashore, and;
(3) logistics companies providing multimodal last-mile delivery
solutions, which improve visibility and reduce shipping time and cost.
FOF has begun to review investments in quantum solutions for the
marine industry, enabling potential breakthroughs in route and fleet
optimization, quantum sensing and navigation, secure quantum
communication, and predictive maintenance and environmental modeling.
Finally, I also serve as the Executive Director of Florida
Development Finance Corporation (FDFC). FDFC is the state authorized
issuer of industrial revenue bonds. FDFC supports economic development
by assisting for-profit and not-for-profit businesses with access to
capital for project financing. The primary mechanism for accessing
capital markets is tax-exempt and taxable bonds.
In the last two fiscal years, FDFC successfully facilitated the
authorization and issuance of over $8.0 billion of tax-exempt, taxable,
and private activity bonds, across a wide range of sectors, including
transportation, solid waste, and healthcare.
FDFC is currently reviewing multiple projects where private
activity bonds may be used for investment for infrastructure projects
like ports, including docks, wharves, and related facilities, including
commercial manufacturing.
If confirmed as a Commissioner of the FMC, I believe my over 35
years of diverse experience in the military, legal and regulatory
affairs, business, investment and finance, technology, and economic
development will allow me to positively contribute to FMC's vital
mission.
In conclusion, Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and members
of the Committee, if given the opportunity and privilege of serving as
a Federal Maritime Commissioner, I promise you that I will follow the
statutory requirements of the law in a fair and unbiased manner. I also
promise to respond to requests of this Committee as you fulfill your
oversight responsibilities of the FMC.
Thank you.
______
a. biographical information
1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): Robert John
Harvey.
2. Position to which nominated: Commissioner, Federal Maritime
Commission.
3. Date of Nomination: September 3, 2025.
4. Address (List current place of residence and office addresses):
Residence: Information not released to the public.
Office: Information not provided.
5. Date and Place of Birth: Joliet, IL.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) or domestic partner, and the names and ages of your
children (including stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).
Spouse: Debra A. Jenks; Owner of Debra A. Jenks, PA. We have no
children.
7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
the degree.
Southern Illinois University School of Law, 1983-1986, J.D.
awarded 1986
Eastern Illinois University, 1981-1983, B.S. Business, awarded
1983
Joliet Junior College, 1979-1981, Associate in Arts
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
* denotes management-level jobs and non-managerial jobs that relate
to the position for which I have been nominated.
All post-graduate employment includes:
President & Executive Director, Florida Opportunity Fund, Inc.
(FOF)*
01/2023 to present
Executive Director, Florida Development Finance Corporation
(FDFC)*
07/2023 to present
General Counsel, Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI)*
11/2022-12/2023
Owner, Jenks & Harvey LLP*
04/2015-11/2022
Partner, Klayman & Toskes
11/2014-04/2015
Partner, Ciklin Lubitz Martens & O'Connell
03/2013-11/2014
Partner, Schwed Kahle & Jenks
11/2010-02/2013
Attorney, Frank White-Boyd
11/2009-11/2010
Owner, Law Firm of Robert J. Harvey, P.A.
07/2009-04/2023
Managing Member, KCF Management LLC, Kensington Capital Fund LP
06/2003-01/2014
Managing Member, Bateleur LLC
06/2001-07/2008
Chief Operating Officer, Imperial Software*
05/2000-06/2001
Director of Operations, MBIA Muniservices*
05/1999-05/2000
Senior Vice President of Operations & General Counsel*
Meridian VAT Reclaim, North America
09/1992-05/1999
Attorney, James Hoffman & Associates
04/1990-08/1992
Lieutenant Commander, Judge Advocate General's Corps, United
States Navy*
08/1986-12/1986 (Officer Indoctrination School--Temporary
Active Duty)
01/1987-03/1990 (Active Duty)
04/1990-08/2001 (Reserves)
9. Attach a copy of your resume.
See attached resume.
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above after 18 years of age.
Listed below in reverse chronological order are the advisory,
consultative, honorary, or other part-time service or positions with
Federal, State, or local governments, other than those listed above to
which I have served after 18 years of age:
State of Florida, 15th Circuit Judicial Nominating, Commission
2015 to present, Chair (2019-2023), Vice-Chair (2015-2019)
Impact Fee Review Committee, Vice Chair, Palm Beach County
(2021 to present) West Palm Beach Federal Courthouse Committee
(2018 to present)
Land Development Regulation Advisory Board, Palm Beach County
(2017-2023)
Equestrian Preserve Committee, Wellington, Florida (2007-2008)
Planning Board, Town of East Hampton, New York (2003-2005)
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution. None.
12. List all memberships you have had after 18 years of age or
currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
affiliated organization, private club, or other membership organization
(You do not have to list your religious affiliation or membership in a
religious house of worship or institution). Include dates of membership
and any positions you have held with any organization. Please note
whether any such club or organization restricts membership on the basis
of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, or disability.
Listed below are all the memberships I have had after 18 years of
age or currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
affiliated organization, private club, or other membership
organization:
Florida Bar (2009 to present)
Palm Beach County Bar (2009 to present)
Ocean Reef Club (2012 to present)
Palm Beach Yacht Club (2011 to present)
Palm Beach County Bar Securities Law Committee, Chair (2015-
2016)
Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association,
Compliance & Legal Society (2010-2018)
Florida Securities Dealers Association (2014-2018)
Arbitrator, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (2015 to
present)
Republican National Lawyers Association (2022 to present)
Federalist Society (2013 to present)
None of the above restricts membership on the basis of sex, race,
color, religion, national origin, age, or disability.
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt. No.
14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. None.
15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $200 or more for the past ten years.
Listed below are all political contributions to any individual,
campaign organization, political party, political action committee, or
similar entity of $200 or more for the past ten years:
Bobby Powell $200
Andrew Watt $200
Al Jacquet $200
Hal Valeche $500
Dave Kerner $200
Mac Bernard $200
Melissa McKinley $500
Adam Putnam $500
Rick Roth $200
Ron DeSantis $1,000
Brian Mast $250
Michael Caruso $1,000
Rick Scott $1,000
16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements.
The following list includes all scholarships, fellowships, honorary
degrees, honorary society memberships, military medals, and any other
special recognition for outstanding service or achievements:
Navy Achievement Medal
Leadership New York IX
17. List all books, articles, columns, letters to the editor,
Internet blog postings, or other publications you have authored,
individually or with others. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
publication when available. None.
18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
speech or presentation when available.
Superyacht Builders Association, Palm Beach, Florida (March
2025)
https://www.linkedin.com/posts/robert-harvey-44190610_kicking-
off-the-2025-
palm-beach-international-activity-73079716901001093l2-n6OG/
?originalSub
domain=pe
19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
years, including statements in news articles and radio and podcasts and
television appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position
for which you have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to
each statement when possible. If a link is not available, provide a
digital copy of the statement when available. None.
20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible.
Listed below are all digital platforms (including social media and
other digital content sites) on which I currently or have formerly
operated an account, regardless of whether the account was held in my
name or an alias:
LinkedIn (active): https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-harvey-
44190610/
Facebook (active): https://www.facebook.com/robert.harvey.37853
X (formerly Twitter) (active): https://x.com/FLBIZNOW
Instagram (active): https://www.instagram.com/robertharvey00/
?hl=en
21. Identify each instance in which you have testified orally or in
writing before Congress in a governmental or non-governmental capacity
and specify the date, committee, and subject matter of each testimony.
None.
22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC), what
in your background or employment experience do you believe
affirmatively qualifies you for appointment to the position for which
you have been nominated, and why do you wish to serve in that position?
Given the current mission, major programs, and major operational
objectives of the Federal Maritime Commission, I believe that having
over 35 years of government, legal, and business operations experience
affinnatively qualifies me for appointment to the Commission.
My professional career began with my service in the United States
Navy where I served on active duty from 1987-1990 (1990-2001 reserve
duty) as a Navy Judge Advocate and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney. As
a result, I have always had a deep appreciation for the relationship
between the U.S. military and commercial maritime sectors. National
security and economic security are essential to maintaining a vibrant
maritime industry. For example, naval freedom of navigation operations
is critical to maintaining supply chains and port access globally. I
look forward to cooperating and coordinating with departments and
agencies to support a secure and prosperous maritime economy.
For nearly the past three years, I have been engaged in multiple
economic development roles in Florida. With 1300 miles of coastline,
sixteen public seaports and seven cruise ports, I have gained an even
greater appreciation for the criticality of the maritime industry,
supply chains, and port access for Florida and the country.
As the maritime industry moves forward it is a given that
technology will play a major role. In my current role as President of
the Florida Opportunity Fund I have overseen the growth of a technology
portfolio of 54 emerging technology companies, including companies
tracking maritime emissions and multimodal logistics. Artificial
intelligence, smart contracts and blockchain technologies are just some
of the technologies that will continue to shape the maritime industry
going forward.
Finally, my law practice was concentrated on secunt1es litigation,
arbitration, and regulation, in state and Federal courts and securities
regulators. I appreciate and understand the effectiveness of robust
enforcement, investigation, and compliance and look forward to
supporting those programs at FMC.
Why do I wish to serve?
I have always made public service and integral part of my
professional career. Service as an FMC Commissioner would be the honor
of a lifetime and the highlight of my public service. As shown in my
application, since leaving active duty I have always made time for
public service on the state and local level. I presently hold the
following positions: State of Florida, 15th Circuit Judicial Nominating
Commission. 2015 to present, Chair (2019-2023), Vice-Chair (2015-2019)
and the Impact Fee Review Committee, Vice Chair, Palm Beach County
(2021 to present).
23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the FMC has proper management and accounting controls, and
what experience do you have in managing a large organization?
If confirmed, I will accept any responsibilities as assigned to
ensure that the FMC has proper management and accounting controls in
place. In my current roles at FOF and FDFC, I have ultimate
responsibility for annual audits, in addition to ensuring that proper
management and accounting controls are followed and in place.
24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
FMC, and why?
The top three challenges facing the FMC are as follows:
1. Global Chokepoints-Freedom of Navigation
FMC has rightly initiated an investigation of conditions at
seven key global chokepoints--the English Channel, the Malacca
Strait, the Northern Sea Passage, the Singapore Strait, the
Panama Canal, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the Suez Canal. With
90 percent of global trade moving by sea, unobstructed shipping
lanes are essential to U.S. economic prosperity.
Additional areas of concern are the unlawful and sweeping
maritime claims in the South China Sea which pose a serious
threat to the freedom of the seas, including the freedoms of
navigation and overflight, free trade and unimpeded commerce,
and freedom of economic opportunity for South China Sea
littoral nations.
The United States must continue to challenge excessive maritime
claims around the world regardless of the identity of the
claimant. The international community has an enduring role in
preserving the freedom of the seas, which is critical to global
security, stability, and prosperity.
2. Competition
The number of major carriers in the U.S. transpacific and
transatlantic trades has decreased from 20 in 2015 to 11 by
2022. due to ocean carrier mergers and the bankruptcy of one
major carrier.
The FMC must continue to monitor the competitive market effects
of collaborative agreements among competitors, such as vessel
sharing agreements (alliances are vessel sharing agreements
that operate globally) or joint ventures to ensure that
operators which compete against each other in the market, do
not result in a reduction in competition that produces
unreasonable increases in transportation costs or unreasonable
decreases in transportation services.
3. Flags of Convenience
Not all foreign ship registries share a commitment with the
United States to ocean shipping integrity and accountability.
The lack of ship registry accountability not only disadvantages
U.S.-flag shipping, but also presents a problem in addressing
smuggling operations, sanctions evasion, disguised ownership,
and other irregularities.
The vessel registration practices of certain foreign countries,
so-called flags of convenience, are creating unfavorable
shipping conditions in the foreign trade of the United States.
These flags enable unsafe vessels to operate and further enable
shadow fleet activity and the evasion of sanctions.
b. potential conflicts of interest
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts, such as a 401(k) or pension plan. None.
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association, or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain. No.
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
resolve each potential conflict of interest. None.
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have bad during the last ten years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
each potential conflict of interest. None.
5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest and explain
how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest. None.
6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
execution of law or public policy. None.
c. legal matters
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
Counsel, an Inspector General, professional association, disciplinary
committee, or other professional group? If yes:
a. Provide the name of the court, agency, association, committee, or
group;
b. Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action was issued or initiated;
c. Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action;
d. Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
complaint, or personnel action.
No
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, municipal, or foreign government entity, other than for
a minor traffic offense? If so, please explain. No.
3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation? If so, please
explain.
Both FOF and FDFC have been parties to litigation. No litigation
has ever been determined to have a material, adverse effect on either
FOF or FDFC's financial position. Both corporations are independently
audited on an annual basis.
I have been a party in two divorce cases in Illinois (1995) and
Florida (2009).
I was named as a party in a foreclosure action in Florida in 2011
that involved a former marital residence lived in by my ex-wife. I was
not on the note, just a nominal Defendant due to ownership interest.
Judgment was entered solely against my ex-wife.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense? If so, please explain. No.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
assault, sexual harassment, or discrimination on the basis of sex,
race, religion, whistleblower activity, or any other basis? If so,
please explain. No.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination. No.
d. relationship with committee
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation complies with deadlines for information set by
congressional committees, and that your department/agency/commission/
corporation endeavors to timely comply with requests for information
from individual Members of Congress, including requests from members in
the minority?
If confirmed, yes, I will ensure that the FMC complies with
deadlines for information set by congressional committees, and that the
FMC endeavors to timely comply with requests for information from
individual Members of Congress, including requests from members in the
minority.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation does whatever it can to protect congressional witnesses and
whistleblowers from reprisal for their testimony and disclosures?
Yes, I will ensure that the FMC does whatever it can to protect
congressional witnesses and whistleblowers from reprisal for their
testimony and disclosures.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee?
Yes. I will cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
reasonably requested to do so?
Yes, I am willing to appear and testify before any duly constituted
committee of the Congress on such occasions as I may be reasonably
requested to do so.
5. Do you agree, if confirmed, to keep this Committee, its
subcommittees, other appropriate Committees of Congress, and their
respective staffs apprised of new information that materially impacts
the accuracy of testimony, briefings, reports, records-including
documents and electronic communications, and other information you or
your organization previously provided?
Yes, I agree, if confirmed, to keep this Committee, its
subcommittees, other appropriate Committees of Congress, and their
respective staffs apprised of new information that materially impacts
the accuracy of testimony, briefings, reports, records-including
documents and electronic communications, and other information.
6. Do you agree, if confirmed, and on request, to provide this
Committee and its subcommittees with records and other information
within their oversight jurisdiction, even absent a formal Committee
request?
Yes, I agree, if confirmed, and on request, to provide this
Committee and its subcommittees with records and other information
within their oversight jurisdiction, even absent a formal Committee
request.
7. Do you agree, if confirmed, to ensure that you and other members
of your organization protect from retaliation any military member,
Federal employee, or contractor employee who testifies before, or
communicates with this Committee, its subcommittees, and any other
appropriate committee of Congress?
Yes, I agree, if confirmed, to ensure that I and other members of
the FMC protect from retaliation any military member, Federal employee,
or contractor employee who testifies before, or communicates with this
Committee, its subcommittees, and any other appropriate committee of
Congress.
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
______
Speaking Engagements
Venture Capital in Florida, Florida Business Seminar, Paris, France
(June 2025)
Venture Capital and Corporate Investment in the Energy Sector,
Middle East Energy 2025--Global Innovation Forum, Dubai, United Arab
Emirates (April 2025)
Opportunities in SpaceTech, Israel Tech Week, Miami, Florida (March
2025)
Superyacht Builders Association, Palm Beach, Florida (March 2025)
Investment Insights, Plug and Play Selection Day Batch 2-Aerospace,
Dual-Use, and Semiconductor Technologies, NeoCity, Kissimmee, Florida
(March 2025)
Investment Insights, Funding Solutions for Life Sciences
Innovation, BioFlorida Innovation Conference, Lake Buena Vista, Florida
(November 2024)
Panel Discussion, Plug and Play NeoCity Semiconductors Expo,
Kissimmee, Florida (October 2024)
Israel Venture Tech Showcase, Las Olas Chabad Jewish Center, Fort
Lauderdale, Florida (September 2024)
The State of Innovation, South Florida Innovation Day, Alan B.
Levan-NSU Broward Center of Innovation, Fort Lauderdale, Florida
(September 2024)
Demystifying Access to Capital, Business Development Board, Martin
County Florida (September 2024)
Corporate Counsel Roundtable, Florida Bar-Business Law Section
Annual Retreat, Naples, Florida (August 2024)
What is Venture Capital, and is it for me?--Understanding the
Florida Opportunity Fund, 2024 Small Business Success Summit, Ponte
Vedra, Florida (August 2024)
Entrepreneurial Coaching, 35 Mules, Florida Power & Light, Juno
Beach, Florida (August 2024)
The Association for Manufacturing Technology, Interview, Haddy,
Inc., St. Petersburg, Florida (July 2024)
Venture Capital in Florida, PLUG and PLAY Silicon Valley Summit,
Sunnyvale, California (May 2024)
Venture Capital in Florida, Venture in the South, Podcast, (May
2024) Venture Capital in Florida, Business Brokers of Florida Annual
Meeting, Deerfield Beach, Florida (April 2024)
State of Venture Capital in Florida, 2024 Florida Venture Forum
Capital Conference, Miami, Florida (February 2024)
Strategies for Attracting Global Technology Companies to Florida,
2023 BioFlorida Conference, Ponte Vedra, Florida (October 2023)
The Future of Economic Development: Optimizing for Impact, Edison
Awards--Meet the Innovators Forum, Fort Myers, Florida (April 2023)
Executive Branch Experiences-Lessons from the Front Lines,
Federalist Society of South Florida, West Palm Beach, Florida (April
2023)
Journey to the Gavel, Palm Beach County Justice Association, West
Palm Beach, Florida (April 2023)
CIED Venture Symposium, Santa Fe College, Gainesville, Florida
(April 2023)
Florida Opportunity Fund-Year to Date, Enterprise Florida, Inc.,
Quarterly Board of Directors Meeting, Tallahassee, Florida (March 2023)
Florida Venture Forum-Capital Crawl, Miami, Florida (February 2023)
The Question of States' Rights: The Constitution and American
Federalism, South Fork High School, Stuart, Florida (September 2022)
Florida's Judicial Nominating Commissions, The Hispanic Vote Palm
Beach County-Community Leaders Meeting, Greenacres, Florida (July 2022)
Palm Beach County Elections: Why They Matter? Boca Raton/Boynton
Beach Florida Chamber of Commerce, Boca Raton, Florida (July 2022)
How to Prepare for a Pathway to the Bench, Palm Beach County
Hispanic Bar Association webinar (June 2022)
Elements of An Effective and Successful JNC Application, Palm Beach
County Bar Association, Committee for Diversity and Inclusion, 2022
Road to the Bench Academy webinar (March 2022)
Pathway to the Bench: Panel Discussion on the Judicial Appointment
Process and the Role of Judge as a Career, Palm Beach County Bar
Association CLE webinar (October 2021)
So, You've Applied, What's Next? Palm Beach County Bar Association
Committee for Diversity and Inclusion 2021 Road to the Bench Academy
webinar (March 2021)
FINRA Arbitration Hot Topics for 2020: Updates You Should Know, The
Knowledge Group, LLC's nationwide webcast (December 2019)
FINRA Arbitration 2019--Regulatory Trends and Arbitration
Procedures, ProLawCLE's nationwide webinar (June 2019)
How to Handle a FINRA Rule 8210 Request: A Comprehensive Guide, The
Knowledge Group, LLC's nationwide webcast (March 2019)
FINRA Arbitration Issues & Strategies--Claims in the FINRA Forum,
ProLawCLE's nationwide webinar (August 2018)
Alternative Dispute Resolution, Florida Atlantic University-Law in
the Real-World Series, Palm Beach Gardens, FL (2015 to 2019)
FINRA Dispute Resolution and How it Works, Florida Institute of
CPAs-Sailfish Chapter, Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Okeechobee Florida
(2016-2017)
Investment Opportunities in Latin America, 22nd Annual Alpha Hedge
East Conference, Palm Beach Gardens, FL (2016)
Crowdfunding Roundtable: Regulators and Practitioners, Public
Investors Arbitration Bar Association Annual Meeting, La Quinta, CA
(2014)
______
Addendum to the questionnaire submitted to the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation, 119th Congress by Robert Harvey.
Please find below my responses to questions received on October 8,
2025:
A.8--Mr. Harvey's OGE 278e list his positions with Florida
Resiliency and Energy District and Florida Venture Forum, as does his
Ethics Agreement, but those positions are not listed on his
questionnaire. Please clarify and provide a supplement as appropriate.
Response: A.8 requested all post-graduate employment.
I am an uncompensated board member of the Florida Venture Forum and
serve as the uncompensated Executive Director of the Florida Resiliency
and Energy District (FRED). Therefore, neither were included as
employment under A.8, but were listed on OGE 278e and my Ethics
Agreement as positions that I will be required to resign upon
confirmation.
My position as a board member for the Florida Venture Forum is
relevant to question A.11, I served in this position from January 2023-
Present.
My position as an Executive Director of the Florida Resiliency and
Energy District (FRED) is an uncompensated advisory position for an
entity established by state law, relevant to question A.10. I served in
this position from July 2023-Present.
Additionally, during my time as a Navy JAG, while on active duty
from 1987-1990 I also served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney.
A.15--We have identified political contributions that Mr. Harvey
may have not disclosed. Please complete a thorough search, and provide
a supplement as appropriate. These omitted contributions include:
1. An additional $1,000 contribution to Rick Scott (Jun. 2024)
2. An additional $1,000 contribution to Ron DeSantis (Oct. 2023)
Response: The above contributions are each listed twice on the
Federal Election Commission website because they are joint fundraising
committee dispersals. The contributions appear to have been received,
then transferred by the candidates to other campaign entities,
resulting in the double entries. My initial disclosure is accurate to
my actual contributions.
A.18--We have identified panels Mr. Harvey participated on that
were not disclosed. Please conduct a comprehensive search for other
responsive speeches, panel discussions and presentations, and provide a
supplement as appropriate. The panels identified are listed here:
1. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/robert-harvey-
44190610_southfloridainnovati
onday-levancenter-techinnovation-activity-7242368212787437568-Re6-
?utm_source=
share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAADleFtAB5wziBPzKt0CKTpcRo
GKVRKxh-d0
Response: This speaking engagement was disclosed on my resume as
The State of Innovation, South Florida Innovation Day, Alan B. Levan-
NSU Broward Center oflnnovation, Fort Lauderdale, Florida (September
2024)
2. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/robert-harvey-44190610_israel-
innovation-tech
nology-activity-7166641603015618560-
fG42?utm_source=share&utm_medium=mem
ber_desktop&rcm=ACoAADleFtAB5wziBPzKt0CKTpcRoGKVRKxh-d0
Response: This was not disclosed since it was not a speech or panel
discussion. I appeared on stage with Mr. Driquez, former Deputy Consul
General of Israel, at a pitch event for Israeli companies in
Tallahassee, Florida.
C.2--Please clarify whether Mr. Harvey was investigated, arrested,
charged, or held on the following dates. If so, please describe the
circumstances around these arrests and provide a supplement as
appropriate.
1. May 1, 1992--felony, misdemeanor
2. February 23, 1988--misdemeanor
3. October 21, 1985--misdemeanor
4. May 28, 1987--misdemeanor
5. January 26, 1994--misdemeanor
6. June 26, 1991--felony
7. July 28, 1986--misdemeanor
Response: I was not investigated, arrested, charged, or held on the
above dates. There are no circumstances to describe since I have never
been arrested.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you. I now recognize Mr. Petty.
STATEMENT OF TIMOTHY PETTY, NOMINEE TO BE
ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF COMMERCE FOR
OCEANS AND ATMOSPHERE, NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC
ADMINISTRATION
Mr. Petty. Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and
distinguished guests and Committee members, thank you for the
opportunity to be here today. I am deeply honored to be
nominated by President Trump to serve as Assistant Secretary of
Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere. I want to thank Secretary
Lutnick, as well, for his confidence in me, and again for
Senator Risch for his kind introduction and for his steadfast
leadership on behalf of the people of Idaho but also this
Nation. It is a privilege to be here today, and I respectfully
ask for your consideration and consent for my nomination.
Before I begin today, I would like to take a moment and
recognize friends and family, but foremost my wife, Elaine, who
is sitting behind me here. She has always been a big support
and a foundation throughout my journey here in Washington, D.C.
My parents and my four siblings are watching remotely from the
family farms back in Indiana. My mother, Esther, is 93 years
old, and my stepfather, Vern, is 97. Their resilience, faith,
and work ethic have been a guiding light for me in my life.
I was born and raised on a family farm in Grant County,
Indiana. Our farm was more than a livelihood. It was a
classroom and a place where I learned the values that have
shaped my life of hard work, faith, and service. From milking
cows before the sun would rise, baling hay in the summer heat,
and watching the skies for signs of rain that could make or
break a season on the farm, I came to understand the deep
connection between people and the land. Our farm bordered
rivers and a gravel pit, which sparked my interest and
fascination with both water, geology, and the natural systems
that support them.
That curiosity led me to pursue a science degree at Purdue
University. I began my career in the private sector, working as
a geologist and a hydrogeologist in Indiana, California, and
even abroad, and I learned the intricacies of groundwater
systems, seismic activity, the environment, and fishing. But I
also realized that science alone was not enough. I needed sound
policy to guide how to manage our natural resources. That
realization brought me to Washington, D.C., where I joined the
Senate staff of Senator Connie Mack, of Senator Rick Santorum,
and, of course, of Senator Risch.
During the time in the Senate, I have had the privilege of
working with many of you members here and your staff, whether
it was advancing hydropower legislation, supporting tribal
water rights settlements, strengthening our water
infrastructure, and of course the environment. I have seen
firsthand the power of collaboration and the importance of
science-based policymaking.
I later earned my Ph.D. in Water Resources at the
University of Alaska Fairbanks, where I was focused on
hydrology and digital transformation.
At the Department of the Interior, I was honored to serve
twice, first under the George W. Bush administration, and later
again as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science under the
Trump administration. In those roles, I provided oversight for
the U.S. Geological Survey and the Bureau of Reclamation,
managing programs critical to our Nation's water security,
science, and advancement.
These experiences deepened my understanding of the complex
interplay between science, policy, and public service. They
also reinforced my belief that effective stewardship of our
oceans and atmosphere requires not only technical expertise,
but collaboration and a commitment to transparency.
Most recently, I have served in the House of
Representatives under Chairman Graves on the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure. This included work with the
Army Corps of Engineers, the EPA, NOAA, and other key agencies.
If confirmed, I will bring my full energy, experience, and
dedication to advancing NOAA's mission. I will champion
innovation, transparency, and collaboration. I will listen to
the voices of the scientists, stakeholders, and all the
communities involved. And I will work to ensure that our
policies are grounded in sound science and guided by the public
good.
I look forward to supporting NOAA's dedicated workforce and
advancing its critical work in oceanic research, weather
forecasting, fishery monitoring, and environmental resilience.
Together, we can ensure that our oceans and atmosphere are
managed wisely, for today but also for future generations.
Thank you again for your consideration. I look forward to
your questions.
[The prepared statement and biographical information of Mr.
Petty follow:]
Prepared Statement of Timothy R. Petty, Ph.D., Nominee for Assistant
Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere, U.S. Department of
Commerce
Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and distinguished Members
of the Committee--thank you for the opportunity to appear before you
today.
I am deeply honored to be nominated by President Trump to serve as
Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere at the
Department of Commerce. I also want to thank Secretary Lutnick for his
confidence in me, and Senator Risch for his kind introduction and for
his steadfast leadership on behalf of the people of Idaho and the
Nation.
It is a privilege to be here, and I respectfully ask for your
consideration and consent to this nomination.
Before I begin, I'd like to take a moment to recognize my family.
My wife, Elaine, is here with me today--her support has been my
foundation throughout this journey. My parents and four siblings are
watching remotely from the family farms back in Indiana. My mother,
Esther, is 93, and my stepfather, Vernon, is 97. Their resilience,
faith, and work ethic have been a guiding light in my life.
I was born and raised on a family farm in Grant County, Indiana.
Our farm was more than a livelihood--it was a classroom, and a place
where I learned the values that have shaped my life: hard work, faith,
and service. From milking cows before sunrise, to bailing hay in the
summer heat, to watching the skies for signs of rain that could make or
break a season, I came to understand the deep connection between people
and the land. Our farm bordered a river and a gravel pit, which sparked
my early fascination with water, geology, and the natural systems that
sustain us.
That curiosity led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in
Geosciences at Purdue University. I began my career in the private
sector, working as a geologist and hydrogeologist in Indiana,
California, and abroad. I learned the intricacies of groundwater
systems, seismic activity, and the environment. But I also realized
that science alone wasn't enough--we needed sound policy to guide how
we manage our natural resources. That realization brought me to
Washington, where I joined the Senate under Senator(s) Connie Mack,
Rick Santorum, and Senator Risch.
During my time in the Senate, I've had the privilege of working
with many of you and your staff. Whether it was advancing hydropower
legislation, supporting tribal water rights settlements, or
strengthening our water infrastructure and environment, I've seen
firsthand the power of collaboration and the importance of science-
based policymaking.
I later earned a Ph.D. in Water Resource Science from the
University of Alaska Fairbanks. My doctoral research focused on surface
hydrology and digital transformation--an area I pursued after
witnessing the need for more timely and accurate flood forecasting
during my time at the Interior.
At the Department of the Interior, I was honored to serve twice--
first under the George W. Bush Administration, and later as Assistant
Secretary for Water and Science under the Trump Administration. In
these roles, I provided oversight for the U.S. Geological Survey and
the Bureau of Reclamation, managing programs critical to our Nation's
water security and scientific advancement.
These experiences deepened my understanding of the complex
interplay between science, policy, and public service. They also
reinforced my belief that effective stewardship of our oceans and
atmosphere requires not only technical expertise, but collaboration,
and a commitment to transparency.
Most recently, I've served in the House of Representatives under
Chairman Sam Graves on the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure, focusing on water resources and environment. This
included work with the Army Corps of Engineers, the EPA, NOAA, and
other key agencies whose missions are rooted in the protection and
sustainable use of our water and coastal resources.
If confirmed, I will bring my full energy, experience, and
dedication to advancing NOAA's mission. I will champion innovation,
transparency, and collaboration. I will listen to the voices of
scientists, stakeholders, and communities. And I will work to ensure
that our policies are grounded in sound science and guided by the
public good.
I look forward to supporting NOAA's dedicated workforce and
advancing its critical work in oceanic research, weather forecasting,
fishery monitoring, and environmental resilience. Together, we can
ensure that our oceans and atmosphere are managed wisely--for today's
needs and for future generations.
Thank you again for considering my nomination. I look forward to
your questions and to the opportunity to serve.
______
a. biographical information
1. Name (Include any former names or nicknames used): A. Timothy
Ray Petty or Tim Petty.
2. Position to which nominated: Assistant Secretary of Commerce for
Oceans and Atmosphere.
3. Date of Nomination: August 1, 2025.
4. Address (List of current place of residence and office
addresses):
Residence: Information not released to the public.
Office: Information not provided.
5. Date and Place of Birth: Marion, Indiana.
6. Provide the name, position, and place of employment for your
spouse (if married) or domestic partner, and the names and ages of your
children (including stepchildren and children by a previous marriage).
Elaine G. Petty (wife), Professional Staff, Endowment for
Community Leadership.
No children. No stepchildren.
7. List all college and graduate schools attended, whether or not
you were granted a degree by the institution. Provide the name of the
institution, the dates attended, the degree received, and the date of
the degree.
Univ. of Alaska Fairbanks
School of Engineering & Mining
PhD: Doctor in Philosophy--May 2017
attended: 2012-2017
University of Maryland Global Campus
Business Management School
Master's degree--April 1999
attended: 1998-1999
Universiteit of Antwerpen, Belgium
Business School
(MS) Certificate w/Univ. of Maryland
attended: spring 1999
King's University, Texas
Master's degree--May 1995
attended: 1987-1995
Purdue University, Indiana
Bachelor of Science--May 1987
attended: 1984-1987
Taylor University, Indiana
attended: 1982-1984 (transfer to Purdue U.)
8. List all post-undergraduate employment, including the job title,
name of employer, and inclusive dates of employment, and highlight all
management-level jobs held and any non-managerial jobs that relate to
the position for which you are nominated.
U.S. House of Representatives
House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure
Subcommittee: Water & Environment
Senior Professional Staff
2022 to present
Chairman Sam Graves of Missouri
Oversight & Authorization: for (USACE) U.S. Army Corps
Engineers, (EPA) Environmental Protection Agency,
partial (NOAA) National Oceanic & Atmospheric
Administration, (USDA--NRCS) U.S. Department of
Agriculture--National Resources Conservation Service,
Great Lakes and Saint Lawrence Seaway (DOT)
U.S. Senate
Senator James Risch (ID)
Senior Advisor
2021-2022
Natural Resources & Water
U.S. Dept of the Interior
Secretary David Bernhardt
Assistant Secretary of Water & Science
2018-2021
Bureau of Reclamation & U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Senate
Senator James Risch (ID)
Deputy Legislative Director
2009-2017
Natural Resources & Water
U.S. Dept of the Interior
Secretary Dirk Kempthorne
Deputy Assistant Secretary of Water & Science
2006-2009
Bureau of Reclamation & U.S. Geological Survey
U.S. Senate
Senator Connie Mack (FL)
Senator Rick Santorum (PA)
Professional Staff
1999-2006
U.S. Dept of Energy
Office of Nuclear Energy (NN-30)
Professional Staff
1996-1998
Professional Engineering Services (1988-1995)
Alton Geoscience
Hydrogeologist
Environmental Geoscience Engineering
Staff Geologist
ICG Geotechnical Services
Staff Geologist
9. Attach a copy of your resume.
Professional resume attached to document
10. List any advisory, consultative, honorary, or other part-time
service or positions with Federal, State, or local governments, other
than those listed above after 18 years of age.
Advisory: Duties, oversight, and responsibilities as Deputy
Assistant Secretary and Assistant Secretary, Dept of Interior
Water & Science
Consultative: Duties as a professional geotechnical engineer
via my duties with engineering companies listed above.
Honorary: None
Part-time services: None
11. List all positions held as an officer, director, trustee,
partner, proprietor, agent, representative, or consultant of any
corporation, company, firm, partnership, or other business, enterprise,
educational, or other institution.
Officer: None
Director: None
Trustee: None
Partner: None
Proprietor: None
Agent: None
Representative: None
Consultant Corporation: None
Consultant Company: Duties for engineering companies listed
above
Consultant Firm: None
Consultant Partnership: None
Consultant Business: None
Consultant Enterprise: None
Consultant Education: None
Consultant Institution: None
12. List all memberships you have had after 18 years of age or
currently hold with any civic, social, charitable, educational,
political, professional, fraternal, benevolent or religiously
affiliated organization, private club, or other membership organization
(You do not have to list your religious affiliation or membership in a
religious house of worship or institution). Include dates of membership
and any positions you have held with any organization. Please note
whether any such club or organization restricts membership on the basis
of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, age, or disability.
Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society Member (since 2017)
Golden Key International Honor Society Member (since 1995)
American Geophysical Union Member (since 2014)
13. Have you ever been a candidate for and/or held a public office
(elected, non-elected, or appointed)? If so, indicate whether any
campaign has any outstanding debt, the amount, and whether you are
personally liable for that debt. No.
14. List all memberships and offices held with and services
rendered to, whether compensated or not, any political party or
election committee within the past ten years. If you have held a paid
position or served in a formal or official advisory position (whether
compensated or not) in a political campaign within the past ten years,
identify the particulars of the campaign, including the candidate, year
of the campaign, and your title and responsibilities. None.
15. Itemize all political contributions to any individual, campaign
organization, political party, political action committee, or similar
entity of $200 or more for the past ten years.
National Republican Committee
2025: 29 August: $250;
2024: 18 October: $10; 6 August: $50: 10 June: $10
2023: $0;
2022: $100;
2021: $0; 2020: $0; 2019: $0; 2018: $0; 2017: $0; 2016:
$0;
2015: $0
16. List all scholarships, fellowships, honorary degrees, honorary
society memberships, military medals, and any other special recognition
for outstanding service or achievements.
Scholarships: None
Fellowship:
National Academies Sciences (class of 2023-24)
Sea Grant Fellow (summer 2015)
Honorary Degrees: None
Honorary Society Memberships:
Phi Kappa Phi
Golden Key
Military: None
Outstanding Service: 2 Federal Star Awards (2007 & 2008)
17. List all books, articles, columns, letters to the editor,
Internet blog postings, or other publications you have authored,
individually or with others. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
publication when available.
Books: None
Articles: None
Columns: None
Letters to Editor: None
Internet Blogs: None
Publications:
UAF Dissertation: ``Flood Hazard Hydrology''
https://scholarworks.alaska.edu/handle/11122/
7633
Springer: ``Bridging policy and science action
boundaries''
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/
s11077-018-9311-y
JAWRA: ``Streamflow Hydrology Estimates using Machine
Learning''
https://doi.org/10.1111/1752-1688.12555
Journal of Geographic Information System: ``Flood
Forecasting GIS Water-Flow Visualization Enhancement
(WaVE)''
https://www.scirp.org/journal/
paperinformation?paperid=72935
18. List all speeches, panel discussions, and presentations (e.g.,
PowerPoint) that you have given on topics relevant to the position for
which you have been nominated. Include a link to each publication when
possible. If a link is not available, provide a digital copy of the
speech or presentation when available.
Senate ENR Nomination Hearing for Tim Petty (2017)
https://www.doi.gov/ocl/nomination-timothy-petty
Senate Budget presentation to House Appropriations Committee
ASWS Testimony on FY 2020 Budget Before the Senate Sub-
Committee on Energy and Water Development
Senate Indian Affairs Committee
https://www.indian.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/
6.24.20_ASPetty_Testi
mony_on_S_3019.pdf
Senate subcommittee on Energy & Water Appropriations
https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/
03.11.20--Petty%
20Testimony.pdf
19. List all public statements you have made during the past ten
years, including statements in news articles and radio and podcasts and
television appearances, which are on topics relevant to the position
for which you have been nominated, including dates. Include a link to
each statement when possible. If a link is not available, provide a
digital copy of the statement when available.
Statements & Interviews in news Articles:
Hydro Leader Magazine
Dr. Tim Petty on the New Water Management Executive
Order--Hydro Leader
Senate ENR on CSKT Water Right testimony
https://flatheadbeacon.com/2020/06/27/bill-settle-cskt-
water-rights-gains-senate-committee-support/
Municipal Water Leader article
Dr. Tim Petty: How the Water Subcabinet Promotes
Progress--Municipal Water Leader Magazine
Justia Patents article notice
Timothy R. Petty Inventions, Patents and Patent
Applications--Justia Patents Search
Idaho Stateman
Idaho Sen. Risch aide named to Interior water, science
job | Idaho Statesman
U.S. Dept. of Interior announcement Co-Chair Drought
Partnership
https://edit.doi.gov/pressreleases/interior-assistant-
secretary-water-and-science-tim-petty-named-co-chair-
national
California Water News Daily
https://californiawaternewsdaily.com/industry/
president-trump-appoints-tim-petty-for-interior-
department-secretary-zinke-cheers-the-nomination/
Radio: None
Podcasts: None
Television: None
20. List all digital platforms (including social media and other
digital content sites) on which you currently or have formerly operated
an account, regardless of whether or not the account was held in your
name or an alias. Include the full name of an ``alias'' or ``handle'',
including the complete URL and username with hyperlinks, you have used
on each of the named platforms. Indicate whether the account is active,
deleted, or dormant. Include a link to each account if possible.
LinkedIn: Tim Petty PhD | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/
in/tim-petty
-phd-5b46aaba/)
WhatsApp: Phone calls only: name under ``Tim Petty''
Facebook: None
Tik Tok: None
Telegram: None
Instagram: None
Snapchat: None
Twitter: None
21. Please identify each instance in which you have testified
orally or in writing before Congress in a governmental or non-
governmental capacity and specify the date, committee, and subject
matter of each testimony.
Senate Energy & Natural Resources nomination written testimony
https://www.energy.senate.gov/services/files/1AC9D7DB-
808A-4ACA-88D0-26479B7C8117
Senate Energy & Natural Resources testimony on H.R. 1967
https://www.energy.senate.gov/services/files/92F18793-
6965-435D-B35A-E1194724729C
Senate Energy & Natural Resources Hearing (Dec. 5, 2017)
Full Committee Hearing to Consider DOE, DOI Nominees--
U.S. Senate Committee on Tim Petty.
Senate Hearing. 115-338--Timothy Petty NOMINATIONS |
Congress.gov | Library of Congress
House Committee on Natural Resources Bio
https://naturalresources.house.gov/uploadedfiles/
3.21_resume_petty.pdf
Budget presentation to House Appropriations Committee
ASWS Testimony on FY 2020 Budget Before the Senate Sub-
Committee on Energy and Water Development
Senate subcommittee Energy & Natural Resources (S. 3001)
https://www.energy.senate.gov/services/files/916FC45F-
5A34-4515-B6F4-45741D357740
https://www.usbr.gov/newsroomold/testimony/
detail.cfm?RecordID=3344
Senate ENR Committee on WIFIA (June 13, 2018)
https://www.energy.senate.gov/services/files/17C5D812-
8409-43CE-841D-5C0DE04F6853
22. Given the current mission, major programs, and major
operational objectives of the department/agency/commission/corporation
to which you have been nominated, what in your background or employment
experience do you believe affirmatively qualifies you for appointment
to the position for which you have been nominated, and why do you wish
to serve in that position?
Response: My qualifications for the role of Assistant Secretary for
NOAA are deeply rooted in my extensive background in water science and
geoscience. My career spans both the private sector and significant
roles within government, including work in Congressional offices for
the Senate, a Committee for the House of Representatives, and service
in two previous administrations at the Department of the Interior. This
diverse experience directly aligns with NOAA's mission, major programs,
and operational objectives.
NOAA's mission centers on understanding and predicting changes in
oceans, coasts and weather, and safeguarding and managing coastal and
marine ecosystems. My career reflects a strong alignment with these
goals including:
Expertise in Water and Science Leadership and Continued Federal
Leadership: As the Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the
U.S. Department of the Interior during the first Trump administration,
I oversaw policy development for the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S.
Geological Survey. These agencies maintain close collaboration with
NOAA, particularly in areas such as hydrology, coastal modeling,
satellite imagery, remote sensing technology, biological surveys,
research methodology, and ecosystem management. My executive experience
also includes prior service as Deputy Assistant Secretary and Acting
Assistant Secretary for Water and Science under President George W.
Bush, demonstrating ongoing experience in these fields. These positions
represent a background in Federal leadership.
Policy and Legislative Experience: My policy background complements
NOAA's operational objectives and includes Congressional Service as
Senior Professional Staff for House Transportation and Infrastructure
on the subcommittee for Water Resources and the Environment.
Additionally, I have served as Deputy Legislative Director and
Legislative Assistant for Senator James Risch, Senator Rick Santorum,
and Senator Connie Mack, focusing on issues related to water, natural
resources, environment, science, and technology.
Field Experience in Geoscience and Hydrology: My field experience
includes work as a geologist and hydrogeologist. These roles gave me
hands-on expertise in water quality research, surface and subsurface
hydrology, atmospheric weather, coastal research, and digital mapping--
areas critical to NOAA's environmental monitoring and coastal
resilience efforts.
Academic and Technical Foundation: I hold a PhD in Water Science
from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, an MS in Business Management
from the University of Maryland, and a BS in Geosciences from Purdue
University. This academic background provides a strong scientific and
technical foundation that supports NOAA's mandates.
Personal Motivation and Commitment: Finally, my personal motivation
and commitment during my 26 years of Federal service to the United
States reveals a deep-rooted passion for water resources, atmospheric
research, and environmental stewardship. Early experiences on a family
farm in Indiana stimulated a fascination with water, biology, geology,
and animal life. My aspiration for this role is grounded in a
dedication to public service, scientific integrity, and advancing
environmental sustainability.
23. What do you believe are your responsibilities, if confirmed, to
ensure that the department/agency/commission/corporation has proper
management and accounting controls, and what experience do you have in
managing a large organization?
Response: If confirmed as the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for
Oceans and Atmosphere, I believe my principal responsibility is to
ensure that NOAA operates with integrity, transparency, and
accountability. This involves establishing and maintaining robust
management and accounting controls to safeguard public resources,
promote efficiency, and uphold the trust placed in me by Congress and
the American people.
I will prioritize strategic oversight of each of NOAA's line
offices, making certain that the agency's mission--across ocean
science, fisheries management, biological survey and science,
atmospheric advancement, and all areas of remote sensing technology and
operations--is supported by sound governance structures as outlined by
Congress. These structures will include clear performance metrics to
measure progress and impact.
Collaboration with leadership and Chief Financial Officer will be
central to my approach. Together, we will work to strengthen financial
stewardship by implementing internal controls, enforcing compliance
with Federal financial regulations, and ensuring that reporting is both
timely and accurate. I will review and implement management processes
as necessary to identify and mitigate risks associated with critical
operational platforms, financial impacts, and areas of concern within
NOAA's priority mission areas. This will be especially important in
high-impact sectors such as operational research, grant distribution,
procurement, and the maintenance of science and data integrity--all
with complete transparency for the American people.
With a workforce of over 12,000 NOAA employees, I will foster a
culture of leadership, accountability, and innovation throughout all
line offices. This includes investing in leadership development,
streamlining decision-making processes, and ensuring every employee
understands how their work contributes to NOAA's overall mission,
purpose and need.
My previous experience includes leading large multidisciplinary
teams in both the public and private sectors. In my prior role at the
Department of Interior, I oversaw more than 14,000 employees across a
comparable scale and complexity. My responsibilities there involved
managing a multimillion-dollar budget, navigating Federal compliance
frameworks, and driving performance improvements across geographically
dispersed units.
Additionally, I have worked in science-driven environments where
collaboration among researchers, technologists, and policy experts was
essential--experience that closely aligns with NOAA's structure and
culture.
Ultimately, I view this role not only as a managerial challenge,
but as a stewardship opportunity. NOAA's work affects every American,
from ocean health to weather forecasts, and I am committed to ensuring
that our operations reflect the highest standards of public service.
24. What do you believe to be the top three challenges facing the
department/agency/commission/corporation, and why?
Response: The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) encounters complex questions from various private, public, and
congressional stakeholders regarding ocean and atmospheric issues.
Adequate staffing and constrained financial resources continue to
affect its operations. I believe the following are three significant
challenges currently facing the agency:
1) Workforce: NOAA manages a staff with extensive expertise.
Adjusting operational capacity and skills alongside emerging
technologies remains ongoing. The key challenge is aligning
workforce capabilities with mission priorities as determined by
Congress. Maintaining institutional knowledge and continuity in
scientific research is necessary, as is balancing credible
science with established priorities.
2) Budget Resources: Congressional requirements and statutory
mandates consistently put pressure on NOAA's budget. Upcoming
Fiscal Years will require prioritization of funding for ocean
research, fishery sustainability, coastal resource management,
and atmospheric forecasting, all of which pose substantial
demands on available funds.
3) Organizational Disruption: Changes in leadership can directly
impact organizational structure. Addressing workforce and
budget considerations may lead to modifications within NOAA and
its relationships with private and commercial institutions. The
agency will need to build upon established stewardship roles to
forecast oceanic and atmospheric risks and incorporate new
technology and datasets. Enhanced coordination will be
necessary for NOAA to address both national and global
environmental concerns.
These challenges are central to NOAA's responsibilities, affecting
areas such as agriculture, fisheries, aviation, transportation, weather
forecasting, coastal communities, and inland impacts.
b. potential conflicts of interest
1. Describe all financial arrangements, deferred compensation
agreements, and other continuing dealings with business associates,
clients, or customers. Please include information related to retirement
accounts, such as a 401(k) or pension plan. (Please Note* Form 278e
provided)
Financial arrangements: None
Deferred Compensation Agreements: None
Business associates: None
Clients: None
Customers: None
Retirement Accounts: TSP
Pension Plan: FERS Retirement
2. Do you have any commitments or agreements, formal or informal,
to maintain employment, affiliation, or practice with any business,
association, or other organization during your appointment? If so,
please explain.
Agreements: None
Affiliations: None
Businesses: None
Associations: None
Organizations: None
3. Indicate any investments, obligations, liabilities, or other
relationships which could involve potential conflicts of interest in
the position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will
resolve each potential conflict of interest.
Investments: None with potential conflicts of interest
Obligations: None with potential conflicts of interest
Liabilities: None with potential conflicts of interest
Relationships: None with potential conflicts of interest
4. Describe any business relationship, dealing, or financial
transaction which you have had during the last ten years, whether for
yourself, on behalf of a client, or acting as an agent, that could in
any way constitute or result in a possible conflict of interest in the
position to which you have been nominated. Explain how you will resolve
each potential conflict of interest.
Business Relationships: None
Business Dealings: None
Financial Transactions: None
Behalf of a client: None
Acting as an Agent: None
5. Identify any other potential conflicts of interest and explain
how you will resolve each potential conflict of interest.
Other potential conflicts: None
6. Describe any activity during the past ten years, including the
names of clients represented, in which you have been engaged for the
purpose of directly or indirectly influencing the passage, defeat, or
modification of any legislation or affecting the administration and
execution of law or public policy.
Activities, names of clients, legislation: None
Activities, direct influence, legislation: None
Activities, indirect influence, legislation: None
Activities, affecting the administration & execution of law:
None
Activities, affecting the administration & execution of public
policy: None
c. legal matters
1. Have you ever been disciplined or cited for a breach of ethics,
professional misconduct, or retaliation by, or been the subject of a
complaint to, any court, administrative agency, the Office of Special
Counsel, an Inspector General, professional association, disciplinary
committee, or other professional group?
Legal discipline: No
Breach of ethics: No
Professional misconduct: No
Retaliation: No
Subject of a complaint: No
If yes: (N/A--Nonapplicable for a-d)
a. Provide the name of the court, agency, association, committee, or
group.
b. Provide the date the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action was issued or initiated.
c. Describe the citation, disciplinary action, complaint, or
personnel action;
d. Provide the results of the citation, disciplinary action,
complaint, or personnel action.
2. Have you ever been investigated, arrested, charged, or held by
any Federal, State, or other law enforcement authority of any Federal,
State, county, municipal, or foreign government entity, other than for
a minor traffic offense?
Yes, State of Virginia. Speeding ticket.
If so, please explain: July 2008, Fairfax County, VA, speeding
ticket on motorcycle. 55 mph in 25 mph zone. Misdemeanor reckless for
speeding. Speeding ticket disposed of October 2008.
3. Have you or any business or nonprofit of which you are or were
an officer ever been involved as a party in an administrative agency
proceeding, criminal proceeding, or civil litigation?
No.
If so, please explain. Not Applicable.
4. Have you ever been convicted (including pleas of guilty or nolo
contendere) of any criminal violation other than a minor traffic
offense?
Yes.
If so, please explain. July 2008, speeding ticket, plea of quilty
for speeding in Fairfax Country, VA ticket for misdemeanor speeding.
5. Have you ever been accused, formally or informally, of sexual
assault, sexual harassment, or discrimination on the basis of sex,
race, religion, or any other basis?
No.
If so, please explain. Not Applicable.
6. Please advise the Committee of any additional information,
favorable or unfavorable, which you feel should be disclosed in
connection with your nomination. None.
d. relationship with committee
1. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation complies with deadlines for information set by
congressional committees, and that your department/agency/commission/
corporation endeavors to timely comply with requests for information
from individual Members of Congress, including requests from members in
the minority? Yes.
2. Will you ensure that your department/agency/commission/
corporation does whatever it can to protect congressional witnesses and
whistleblowers from reprisal for their testimony and disclosures? Yes.
3. Will you cooperate in providing the Committee with requested
witnesses, including technical experts and career employees, with
firsthand knowledge of matters of interest to the Committee? Yes.
4. Are you willing to appear and testify before any duly
constituted committee of the Congress on such occasions as you may be
reasonably requested to do so? Yes.
______
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
______
Addendum to the questionnaire submitted to the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation, 119th Congress by Timothy R.
Petty
Part A, Q18--Please add the following presentations and panelist
discussions:
i. ``Using GIS in the Senate''--November 14, 2017--Library of
Congress
ii. ``Senior Federal Agency Water Officials Panel--Improving Inter-
agency Coordination for Water Supply Reliability''--December 13, 2019--
Colorado River Water Users Association
iii. ``Plenary Session 4: Integrated Geospatial Platform and
Services: Towards a Digital Economy''--January 13, 2020--GeoBuiz Summit
iv. The Trump Water Subcabinet: ``Decisions Made at the Speed of
Trust''--February 21, 2020--Family Farm Alliance Conference
v. Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) virtual roundtable on the Grand Coulee
Dam--August 12, 2020
Part A, Q21--Please add the following statements before Congress:
i. March 14, 2018--House Appropriations Committee, Energy and Water
Development, and Related Agencies Subcommittee Hearing on The F.Y. 2019
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation Budget
ii. March 22, 2018--Senate Energy & Natural Resources Committee
Hearing to Examine the 2018 Western Water Supply Outlook and Bills
Related to Water Infrastructure and Drought Resiliency
iii. April 12, 2018--House Committee on Natural Resources,
Subcommittee on Water, Power, and Oceans Hearing on Examining the
Proposed Fiscal Year 2019 Spending, Priorities and Missions of the
Bureau of Reclamation and the Four Power Marketing Administrations
iv. April 18, 2018--Senate Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee
on Energy and Water Development Hearing on the FY2019 Budget Request
for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers & Bureau of Reclamation
v. March 27, 2019--(Incorrectly linked to Senate testimony in
questionnaire) House Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee on Energy
and Water Development Hearing on Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of
Reclamation Fiscal 2020 Budget Request
vi. April 10, 2019--Senate Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee
on Energy and Water Development Hearing on FY2020 Budget Requests for
Army Corps of Engineers & Bureau of Reclamation
vii. March 10, 2020 -House Appropriations Committee, Subcommittee
on Energy and Water Development Hearing on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
and Bureau of Reclamation Budget Requests for FY2021
viii. June 24, 2020--Senate Committee on Indian Affairs,
Legislative Hearing to receive testimony on S. 2165, S. 2716, S. 2912,
S. 3019, S. 3044, S. 3099 & S. 3100
In Part A, Q20--Please add the following dormant LinkedIn account:
1. https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-petty-37770b4
In Part A, Q10--Please add that I served as co-chair of the
National Drought Resilience Partnership.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you. President Trump has been vocal
about restoring American maritime dominance. I think most
Americans would be disturbed to learn that our ports are light
years behind Europe and Asia in using automated technology. You
only have to look at the supply chain snarls outside of
California's ports from a few years ago to see how poorly our
country did at moving cargo quickly from ship to shore.
Mr. Carmel, why are American ports so archaic compared to
their foreign counterparts?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. We are, no question about
it, in terms of our ability to productivity, behind. There is a
variety of reasons, some of which I was just not around for.
The real issue, though, at the end of the day is using
technology in a way that leverages labor, makes labor more
productive, and allows us to compete at the level of foreign
ports. We should use technology in a way that does not displace
jobs. We should use technology in a way that enhances them and
magnifies them so that workers can be productive. But at the
end of the day it is productivity that we have to deal with.
Chairman Cruz. Is the problem a lack of Federal spending or
too much red tape and other factors?
Mr. Carmel. I think it is a combination of both.
Regulations certainly can get in the way, and I think that some
of it is just inertia, I think, to be honest with you. So we
have to ignite an innovation drive. I know that the SHIPS Act
has innovation in it. I know that MARAD has the Maritime
Innovation Center. Waterfront Workers has an innovation
section. So there are three actual competing programs for
innovation. We need to leverage them, make sure that they are
used in a way that is synergistic and provide value rather than
compete, and find ways to make our workforce productive, make
sure that the workforce understands that the waterfront is a
good place to have a long, productive career, a good place to
raise families, and deal with it that way.
Chairman Cruz. OK. Mr. Petty, NOAA reviews offshore oil and
gas activities for compliance with NEPA, the Endangered Species
Act, and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Key regulations for
the incidental take of marine mammals are set to expire in
April 2026. The expiration of these regulations would curtail
geophysical activities related to oil and gas exploration and
production in the Gulf of America.
If confirmed, will you ensure that these incidental take
regulations are renewed by April 2026, to prevent any
permitting delays?
Mr. Petty. Chairman, thank you for that question. It is an
important one, and we need to make sure that we have the focus
on these areas of regulation. I look forward to getting into
the department and looking specifically at all the priorities
that are set, at what are coming due, that we can address them
immediately. The President and the Administration, as well as
the Secretary, has said that we need to focus on regulatory,
making it focused and short, so that we can move things but do
it right, and that is the commitment that I make, is making
sure that the laws are met, that the regulations are quick and
decisive and clear, moving forward.
Chairman Cruz. Well, and I can certainly echo that it is
the President's commitment and Secretary Lutnick's commitment
to move swiftly and not to have permitting delays. So I trust
that you, when confirmed, will implement a streamlining to
ensure that permitting can move forward efficiently.
How do you hope to streamline the environmental permitting
process, beyond ensuring timely renewal of the incidental take
regulations?
Mr. Petty. Again, I look forward to getting in, if
confirmed. But streamlining, I think, needs to be a partnership
with not only the different agencies that have oversight, not
only Commerce but Interior and other agencies, but they need to
be looking at that not in a kind of a rail where it is what
goes from one car to the next car to the next, but all tracks
are parallel, working together. And I think we can do that with
the technology of interacting with the resources of the
regulatory so we can all be looking at them at the same time
and moving things much more quickly versus the old method,
which is when one packet is done it gets moved to another
committee.
Chairman Cruz. OK. And this last question is for our two
Federal Maritime Commission nominees. The Federal Maritime
Commission has a narrow mission--ensuring a competitive ocean
transportation system. Mr. Harvey, Ms. DiBella, what are the
statutory functions of the FMC, and will you commit, if
confirmed, to staying within the bounds of your authority? Mr.
Harvey, we will start with you.
Mr. Harvey. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The statutory
commitments are to create, have a reliable ocean transportation
system, I think that we would stay in our lane in terms of our
jurisdiction, that we are there to review the agreements that
are filed with our agency to assure that those are fair and
reasonable and not anti-competitive. We also have an
enforcement division, and I believe in regulation, to ensure
that competitiveness and enforcement, when necessary, of those.
And we have an adjudication process to make sure that all the
players in the system can get their disputes resolved quickly.
But I would look to stay in our lane, and I would hope to have
marketplace solutions to these problems.
Chairman Cruz. Ms. DiBella.
Ms. DiBella. I echo Mr. Harvey's statement, all of it. And
taking it a step further, we will work very collaboratively
with other agency, like MARAD and Service Transportation Board,
whomever would be involved with the matter at hand, in assuring
that the whole system is being addressed. And I think that is
the overarching, you know, outside the statutory
responsibilities that we have. We are responsible for the
entire system to be efficiently and competitive and also
reliable.
So that is really the crux of the conversation, you know,
how do we do that, is addressing the business needs, either
businesses that are operating here in the United States or
those that are looking to operate here. And we are functioning
as that authority that is responding to their inquiries, to
their needs, and then taking action as appropriate.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you. Ranking Member Cantwell.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Lots of
questions. I will try to get through as many of them as I can.
Mr. Carmel, do you support the Jones Act?
Mr. Carmel. Yes, Senator, I do.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you, and thank you for your vision
for a maritime nation. You and I had a chance to talk about
many issues related to that shipbuilding financing. We did not
spend as much time talking in my office, though, about
workforce issues, so I want to bring up, what do you think we
need to do to deal with the serious shortage? And clearly the
Senate has been very concerned about sexual assault and sexual
crime at sea, passing legislation reform, and looking for new
leadership to make sure that the Academy is acquiring a
workforce that is well aware of what the conduct should be.
So if you have thoughts about what we should do there?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. Yes, one of the biggest
things we have to do for the workforce of the future is ensure
that the workforce understands the future will be there. It is
very difficult to attract people into the industry if they are
afraid that a year or two, the ship that they signed on is
going to be gone, they are not going to have a job.
So building a stable, credible maritime industry that can
produce a ladder for a career path that is going to be around
for a while, I think is one of the biggest things we have to
do. We have to do a better job at educating the American
student body about what is out there, that the maritime
industry is just a good place for good jobs.
And training programs. We tend to often focus straight on
officers, like Kings Point, but ships do not run without
unlicensed, as well. So we need to make sure that that pipeline
is also operating the way it should. Full marks to the unions,
the SIU, in particular, are very good at that sort of stuff,
but we need to support them. I know that the SHIPS Act and, I
think, the Waterfront Workers Act both have training money in
there for that.
In terms of King's Point, we have a long way to go to get
King's Point fixed. No question about it.
Senator Cantwell. You are referring to now on the sexual
assault issues?
Mr. Carmel. Yes, ma'am. And overall. Overall. You know, at
the end of the day King's Point is an academic institution. We
need to make sure that when both students and instructors walk
through the gate to that place they are proud to be there. I
think that has a lot to do with the attitude of people. I think
that the discipline instilled in the regimental system could
probably stand a little bit of tightening up, and I think that
will help.
But at the end of the day it is common sense. It is making
sure that people treat each other with respect. That is not
that hard of a concept. And I know it sounds stupid because we
have had failures in the past, but we have to really hammer
that home--at sea, at shore, period.
Senator Cantwell. We will look for your leadership on that.
Dr. Petty, if you could comment on support for PCSRF, stock
assessments, and a NOAA Organic Act?
Mr. Petty. Yes, Senator. Thank you for the question. First
of all, stock assessment. That is a high priority for the
Administration, along with the executive order that prioritizes
the stock assessment. I look forward to working with now-
confirmed Under Secretary Neil Jacobs on specifically
implementing and making sure we have the resources and
personnel to get those stock assessments done.
Senator Cantwell. OK. PCSRF you support?
Mr. Petty. Yes.
Senator Cantwell. NOAA Organic Act?
Mr. Petty. Yes, absolutely, Senator. Looking forward to
working with you on----
Senator Cantwell. OK.
Mr. Petty. Yep.
Senator Cantwell. A little reverse approach than what
Senator Cruz asked, you know, is we need the Federal Maritime
Commission obviously working with the MARAD nominee here, to
assure that both American consumers and American exporters are
not taken advantage of. So Mr. Harvey, it was good to hear your
detail of experience on the technology side. Mr. Carmel and I
had a great conversation about blockchains and immutable
manifests and great things that might help us accelerate our
leadership position on supply chain issues.
But you also mentioned unfair and deceptive practices, and
that clearly was what was happening to us, and I do not think
most Americans understand. We do not control shipping today. I
mean, we control calling on our ports, but these are basically
big international carriers that tried to dictate to us what
business was going to be like. So thank God we passed a new law
and gave more authority to the Commission.
So what do you have in mind when you are looking at unfair
and deceptive practices, again when we are going to try to
build the maritime nation again under the leadership here that
we are talking about? But we also have to show to the
international community that is calling on our ports that we
are going to be serious about unsubstantiated increases in
rates, or practices where they are leaving us high and dry on
the docks with our U.S. products.
Mr. Harvey. Thank you. That is where the reviewing of the
agreements, watching the alliances that operate to make sure
that there are not anti-competitive practices, because it is a
unique--I will use this word again--ecosystem in the maritime
industry where there is very limited amount of providers and
agreements that, on one hand, could be helpful to making the
system more efficient and making capacity more available. But
they are also very capable of becoming anti-competitive.
Senator Cantwell. I just want to clarify. So you are not
afraid to use that authority in ways when you see problems that
exist?
Mr. Harvey. No, ma'am.
Senator Cantwell. OK.
Mr. Harvey. And when I saw it in the securities industry,
now regulation is an important part of what we do in
rulemaking, but I would say that nothing gets an industry
member's attention like an enforcement action, when that is
necessary. I was on the other end of those, so I know when
those get filed, it is attention getting, for sure.
Senator Cantwell. Great. Thank you. Thank you, Mr.
Chairman. I will have whatever comments you have on that, Ms.
DiBella for the record. You have had more involvement in this,
so I think we have some understanding of your record. Thank
you.
Ms. DiBella. Oh, sure. I appreciate that. Thank you very
much. I would say, you know, that the carriers make the market,
so it is a bit of a balance that we have to have with them. I
appreciate their role in all of this. However, we do need to,
and do, provide some good oversight. And I hope for additional
transparency that relationship will, shall we say, improve and
we will be able to have a more efficient system.
Senator Cantwell. Thank you.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you. Senator Fischer.
STATEMENT OF HON. DEB FISCHER,
U.S. SENATOR FROM NEBRASKA
Senator Fischer. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Carmel, as
you know there are three programs that ensure U.S. flagged
vessels are available for the sealift: the Jones Act, Cargo
Preference, and the Maritime Security Program. What importance
do you put on those programs?
Mr. Carmel. All three programs are critical to sustaining
the fleet we have now. They are not, on their own, going to
help us grow it, but they are critical to making sure we do not
go backward.
Senator Fischer. Do you have any ideas on ways that MARAD
could possibly improve on those programs?
Mr. Carmel. Those programs themselves do what they are
intended to do. The Maritime Security Program, one of the
problems with the Maritime Security Program that we
experience--and it is actually, at the end of the day, it is
also the Tanker Security Program, which is another one--rely on
government preference cargo. At the end of the day it is not
about ships. It is about cargo. Our whole industry is built on
cargo. If we do not have enough cargo, how many ships we have
is irrelevant. And so we need to do a better job of generating
cargo.
Now, for the Maritime Security Program and the Tanker
Security Program we are talking about preference cargos. There
is not enough of that around really to scale either program. So
we also need to find ways to generate cargo that does not come
from the American taxpayer. If we want the size of fleet that
we are talking about, we are going to have to get our fleet
back to carrying a nation's commerce, not just focused on the
military.
Senator Fischer. In any potential conflict, though, our
sealift assets will be indispensable, so that we can take care
of our forces, so that material can transit to the theater of
operations. The Ready Reserve Force fleet is a key component of
our sealift capability, but because of systemic underinvestment
its readiness has suffered. Would you agree with that?
Mr. Carmel. No question. Yes, ma'am.
Senator Fischer. Great. Given your operational and your
corporate experience, how can MARAD work better with industry
to revive that Ready Reserve Force?
Mr. Carmel. Well, there are two programs in place right
now. One is, which is still being, I guess, working through the
legislative process, which is building ships for the Ready
Reserve Force. The other one is the buy used new ships. That
puts a band-aid on a problem. That gets ships into the fleet
relatively quickly. Like there are still ships that sit at the
dock and do not really do anything.
Senator Fischer. Do you think you would need any additional
authorities to better execute that recapitalization of that
force?
Mr. Carmel. I would have to get in the building and
understand what MARAD is doing on that now. But what we are
doing right now is heading down the same path we have always
headed down and got us to where we are today.
Senator Fischer. Thank you, sir. The FMC has undertaken
significant efforts to enhance port efficiency, and has taken a
closer look at detention practices. The FMC can play a crucial
role in improving port operations. Ms. DiBella and Mr. Harvey,
if confirmed, what specific criteria will you prioritize to
ensure agreements align with FMC standards and facilitate
efficient freight movement overall?
Ms. DiBella. Thank you for the question. In regards to
detention and truly any matter, I think taking, once confirmed,
and once I am able to be briefed fully on many of these issues,
I believe, again going back to more transparency, understanding
the realities of why certain cargo, certain containers are left
and are resulting in such detention and demurrage charges, I
think uncovering really where the inefficiencies are. You know,
truly, and going back to what I had said before, looking at
things systematically. Going back to the supply chain crisis,
the issues at the waterfront were largely contributed to the
interior.
So it is truly taking a very comprehensive look at every
aspect of the supply chain and understanding exactly where the
issue is created, and taking action in that regard. It could be
elsewhere. It could be maybe not in the interior. It could be
far off in another, you know, 3,000 miles away in the ocean.
But it is just really taking a very comprehensive look.
Senator Fischer. Thank you. Mr. Harvey, anything to add?
Mr. Harvey. Thank you, Senator. Just to add to that, I am
an investor in technology for the state of Florida, and I want
to ensure that regulations that are coming from the FMC
encourage innovation. Some of these problems, especially in
detention, can be solved, by, for instance, we invested in a
last mile delivery entity, and that is multimodal. So it is the
ship, the rail, the truck.
So I think that if we can create fair and competitive
markets, private capital is going to flow and help to solve
some of these problems, whether it is fixing these types of
problems or even the larger problems with port renovation and
upgrading, which is a huge capital lift there that probably is
not just for government alone.
Senator Fischer. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Chairman Cruz. Thank you. Senator Moreno.
STATEMENT OF HON. BERNIE MORENO,
U.S. SENATOR FROM OHIO
Senator Moreno. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and
congratulations to all four of you for being nominated. I look
forward to getting you confirmed quickly and expeditiously.
Mr. Carmel, I will start with you. What is the state of our
maritime industry in America? How would you assess that
competitively? Are we in the top 10? Bottom 10? Middle of the
pack?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. I appreciate that question
a lot. It is something I lose sleep over all the time. I am not
even sure we are on the scale.
Senator Moreno. So the next question is, what happened,
because that was not always the case? You go back to the 1940s,
and we won World War II because we could produce a lot of
ships. So what happened from then until now?
Mr. Carmel. Yes, Senator, that is correct. Actually,
though, as I mentioned in the opening, we have been fighting
this for 150 years. The first stab at trying to repair a badly
damaged Merchant Marine happened with the House Select
Committee on the Merchant Marine in 1870, and we have been
repeating cycles of this ever since. So we have had a long
history of not getting it right.
Now, to answer your question directly, that is true. We did
a great job of cycling up for World War II because we had the
industrial capacity to do it. Our Merchant Marine was in tough
shape prior to that. Prior to World War I we had to cycle up,
but we did it late. Most of the ships we built for the World
War I surge were too late to be delivered to matter for the war
effort.
World War II we had to cycle up again. Interestingly
enough, Mr. Kaiser was a dam builder, and is the one that built
the ships. So we did a great job. But we knew how to build
things then. That is the difference. We knew how to build
things. Our industrial capacity had not rotted yet.
After World War II--and by the way, there is a problem.
Every time we do this, every time we cycle up, build a lot of
stuff for a war, and then the war is over, then we are faced
with what do we do with all these ships, and that creates a
boom-and-bust cycle that is not healthy.
But we let our industrial capacity rot again, except this
time we let it rot too far, and I personally do not believe we
could do that again. I do not believe we have the industrial
capacity we need right now to be able to do that. And I think
that it manifests itself all throughout the maritime industry,
and in many ways it ripples out into our U.S. economy. It is
imperative that in order to get the maritime industry right we
need to fix the underlying maritime infrastructure and
industrial capacity.
At the end of the day, wealth of a country is not about how
many dollars are in the bank. The wealth of a country is our
capability to build our own future for tomorrow. And we have
sacrificed that, and we need to get it back. Thank you.
Senator Moreno. Perfect. I appreciate that, and obviously
all of us can sense that is really a matter of national
security.
Mr. Harvey, there are obviously ports in Florida and Texas
and the East Coast, the West Coast, although I do not hold my
breath for new ports going into the West Coast with the current
political environment. They may find a frog that may have
passed by that land and prohibit any construction there. But
there is a place called the Great Lakes. President Trump did
not name them, so I do not want to get my Democratic colleagues
upset, but they are a huge natural resource for this country.
In Lake Erie we have the Port of Cleveland.
Can you talk about what you are going to do to make certain
that we revitalize the Great Lakes shipping industry?
Mr. Harvey. Thank you, Senator. As I said in my opening,
the Great Lakes region is a special place to me because that is
where I grew up and actually watched sort of the
deindustrialization of that part of the country. And I think
there is no way to restore America's maritime dominance without
restoring our industrial dominance.
So I think we just have to be aware that everything that we
do at the FMC in terms of rules, regulations, not only helps
the international carriers, but really focuses also on what is
happening on the Great Lakes.
Senator Moreno. Because we compare the Port of Miami, for
example----
Mr. Harvey. Yes, sir.
Senator Moreno.--where you have these monstrosity, giant
cruise ships, you are not going to get a lot of industrial
capacity there, nor would it be logistically feasible. But when
you bring things into places like Cleveland, it is dramatically
easier to feed our industrial base. And I just want to make
sure we do not have a Florida-centric or Southern-centric view
of this, that we understand how critical the Great Lakes are.
So I want it to have a special place in your heart, but
also in your mind and in your pocketbook, so that we are
looking at the Great Lakes and refurbishing that. Do I have
your commitment, both of you, Ms. DiBella, as well?
Mr. Harvey. Yes.
Ms. DiBella. My response to that? I would take the same
approach that we did at the state level, when thinking about
where the export needs are and perhaps ways that we could
potentially help. You know, where are the bottlenecks in the
system? Where is overregulation? Are there issues with Canada?
Or trying to enhance the capabilities in and around that region
that would utilize the resources that are there and the
infrastructure that is there in order to export and also
import. So I would say I believe there is a lot of agriculture
that comes in and out of there that would support Middle
America.
So it is really examining the supply chain. You know, once
again, what is dominating, from an import and export activity,
and how can we help.
Senator Moreno. Great. Maybe we will get you all to
Cleveland after we confirm you.
Ms. DiBella. That would be great.
Senator Moreno. Just remember, Cleveland, on the Great
Lakes, is much earlier than Minnesota.
Chairman Cruz. Senator Rosen.
STATEMENT OF HON. JACKY ROSEN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM NEVADA
Senator Rosen. Well, and I appreciate the great 10,000
lakes in Minnesota and all the other Great Lakes. I do not have
shipping lakes but I do have really great lakes in Lake Tahoe
and Lake Mead, so I am just going to give them a shoutout,
anyway, even though they may not be a subject of this. We have
got good lakes all around our country.
Thank you all to the witnesses for being here. Thank you,
Mr. Chairman, for this hearing. I am going to talk about
something that we all care about, every single day, when we
wake up. The first thing you think about--well, after the
coffee, of course--is what is the weather going to be today?
How am I going to get to work? How am I going to drive? How am
I going to get there? What am I going to wear?
Over the last several years we have seen academic
institutions, private companies incorporate machine learning,
artificial intelligence into their weather and ocean
forecasting products. For example, the Desert Research
Institute in Nevada is improving wildfire smoke prediction
emissions using machine learning algorithms.
So Dr. Petty, what roles do you see machine learning or
artificial intelligence playing in natural disaster, climate
forecasting models, both as it relates to water management--we
are on the water theme with all the lakes--but climate
forecasting and modeling, water management, and NOAA's
overarching mission, please?
Mr. Petty. Yes, Senator. Right off the bat I think they are
critical. I think that is where we need to be moving more
toward expansion in that capability of technology, and being
able to not only look at past history and the science to feed
into these models and the technology for machine learning and
artificial intelligence.
Senator Rosen. That is great. And so we do know that these
advancements are going to continue to be critical. So it is why
I introduced the Smart Weather Forecasting for Water
Management, Farming, and Ranching Act. It is going to carry out
pilot projects for better sub-seasonal to seasonal forecasting,
particularly for water management. It is a huge issue in our
country--too much, too little.
So, Dr. Petty, if confirmed, would you advocate for NOAA to
invest and expand research on sub-seasonal to season
forecasting?
Mr. Petty. Senator, I look forward to getting into the
building to really look at the priorities. But I probably will
be able to confidently say that will be a high priority, from
just listening to the hearing that Dr. Jacobs had with you
about a month and a half ago.
Senator Rosen. Please, I welcome you to our office to
continue the conversation.
Mr. Petty. I would enjoy that very much.
Senator Rosen. Thank you. I am going to keep on weather a
little bit, because NOAA Regional Climate Centers are key in
collecting and distributing raw climate data to support
decisionmakers as they grapple with extreme weather events that
threaten health, safety, agriculture, infrastructure, travel.
In Nevada, again, we are very thankful for our very own Desert
Research Institute, which serves as one of only six Regional
Climate Centers nationally.
Dr. Petty, if confirmed, will you commit to supporting our
Regional Climate Centers?
Mr. Petty. Senator, I am actually very familiar with the
Center in your great state. And so I look forward to, first of
all, getting into the office, getting a complete review by the
National Weather Service and their team, so that we can really
look at the priorities, implementing new technologies, and the
big part, which is the collaboration and making sure that
transparency is getting to all the different communities that
have to deal directly with weather.
Senator Rosen. Thank you, and I am going to kind of stay on
this because even though we do have our lakes and rivers, but
we are a landlocked state, of course. But we often experience
severe weather events that originate in the coastal areas of
the Pacific--California, Oregon, Washington, right? So what do
you see as some of the challenges that coastal and marine
ecosystems are facing during these extreme weather events, and
how do you think the Regional Climate Centers, do you have an
opinion about how they might manage going forward, how we might
help predict and really mitigate some of the impact?
Mr. Petty. Yes, Senator. I think right off the bat the
understanding of both the estuaries, the ecosystems that are
not only coastal but inland, all of those play off of each
other, and the importance of making sure that there is
transparency and collaboration not only with the Federal
Government but with the state governments, but then even more
so, with my experience, is that all of the agencies are working
together--Interior, Army Corps of Engineers, Department of
Energy, as well as Commerce are all on the same page, working
together.
Senator Rosen. I am very interested, very pleased to hear
that you are interested in collaborating with everyone. I do
know that over 15 percent of NOAA's workforce has been slashed.
That is really distressing to us, given the importance of these
positions as far as researching, forecasting, communicating
dangerous weather conditions.
And so I guess I have a few seconds. You can just ask how
will you ensure that you have enough staff to accurately
predict, communicate weather information, do the important
research that we rely on for so many sectors--like I said,
agriculture, transportation, farming, you name it?
Mr. Petty. Yes, Senator. Fully recognizing all of the other
agencies that utilize NOAA's weather service is the important
part. But for my part on prioritizing and maintaining, to
ensuring that that research is focused, responsive, and looking
for public needs of what they are specifically needing to
address. So that will be my commitment to you on what we will
work on with the staff within NOAA.
Senator Rosen. Thank you. I appreciate it.
Mr. Petty. Thank you, Senator.
STATEMENT OF HON. TODD YOUNG,
U.S. SENATOR FROM INDIANA
Senator Young [presiding]. Well, congratulations to all of
you on your nomination. Mr. Carmel, I believe your nomination
represents an important milestone for MARAD. Our country is
just now waking up to an important situation that we put
ourselves in regarding our capacity to build and operate ships
here in America. As a Merchant Marine Academy graduate, one of
the youngest captains of a commercial ship in recent history,
and a senior executive in one of the world's largest shipping
lines, you have unique experience and a perspective that you
can bring to bear on the challenges we face, and a familiarity
with the commercial industry that we desperately need at this
time.
The President has made building ships in America a
priority, and I am glad that he has. I have bipartisan
legislation with Senator Mark Kelly of Arizona, the SHIPS for
America Act, that would set the conditions for restoring
American dominance.
Would you please give me your assessment, Mr. Carmel, of
the state of commercial shipping, briefly, and shipbuilding in
America, and how the SHIPS Act and the President's plan will
get us back on the right track?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you very much, Senator. That is a great
question. The state of our shipping and shipbuilding industry
is, starting with shipping, is basically on a lifeline. We do
not carry our own commerce, flat out. A Merchant Marine is
supposed to be for carrying the Nation's commerce, and we need
to find a way to get back there. That, to me, is extremely
important.
In terms of shipbuilding, our shipbuilding industry is very
narrowly focused on a very niche market. We are not even
comparable to international scale shipbuilding. I know that the
SHIPS Act says we cannot build ships at scale. I would go a
step further and say that for ships that matter in
international trade we cannot build them at all. We are just,
simply, that capacity just does not exist here. It needs to be.
We need to bring it back. I think the SHIPS Act is a great
thing, because it addresses the pillars that we need to do,
that the Executive Order gave us the vision of what needs to be
done. The SHIPS Act gives us the levers and the resources to do
it, and that is what is important. One of the reasons we failed
over the years is instability. The SHIPS Act gives us that too.
Senator Young. Well, thank you for that. Yes, the numbers
are pretty disturbing. China has, the numbers vary, but roughly
5,500 ships that can operate in ocean-level shipping. We have
much less than that, 80, roughly. And we have the capacity--it
is not to suggest we do--we have the capacity to build only 5 a
year. So we need to up our game. The SHIPS Act would help us
build 250 over the next 10.
If you are confirmed, and I think you will be, you will
play a key role in implementing the President's agenda, which
you referenced. For MARAD, what are the key parts of that
agenda, if you could quickly itemize them, that are necessary
to restore our shipbuilding capacity, and if you could speak to
how the SHIPS Act might fit into that picture, that would also
be helpful?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. One is the financial
framework and structure. The Maritime Trust Fund is a great
start at that. So we need a financial structure. We need demand
generation. We need to come up with a better way of finding
something for our ships to do. We need workforce development.
The SHIPS Act addresses all those things. We need innovation.
Again, the SHIPS Act actually has areas that overlap, Workers
on the Waterfront, or Waterfront Workers. There are areas that
those areas can work together. Innovation is key to getting us
out of where we are. So those things are just a few of the
things that MARAD has the handle on, that can implement the
SHIPS Act.
Senator Young. Thank you, sir. With our roughly one minute
left maybe you could paint a picture of what will happen if we
do not pass the SHIPS Act? Will you still be able, in this new
position, for which I expect you will be confirmed, will you
still be able to implement the President's vision effectively?
Mr. Carmel. The SHIPS Act is critical to being able to do
it effectively and quickly. If the SHIPS Act is not passed, we
will still work on that agenda. We will do what we can,
assuming I get confirmed, to implement the vision. But it will
go a lot slower, it will not be as robust, and most
importantly, it will be fragile. We run the risk of doing what
we have done in the past, start down a path and the whole thing
falls apart. We need a way to make this permanent, so that it
is codified and we do not go through a cycle of start and stop,
and the SHIPS Act does that.
Senator Young. Thank you, Mr. Carmel. Thank you, all of
you. Senator Klobuchar, you are recognized for questions.
STATEMENT OF HON. AMY KLOBUCHAR,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MINNESOTA
Senator Klobuchar. Thank you so much, Mr. Chair, and
congratulations to all of you. You are tasked with
strengthening our maritime industry, ensuring the U.S.
maintains a resilient supply chain, protecting our water
resources, and that, of course, includes the Great Lakes, so
that is a lot on your shoulders.
In 2022, Senator Thune and I passed the Ocean Shipping
Reform Act, which strengthened oversight of ocean shipping,
improved supply chain efficiency, and it has brought some
meaningful results in terms of getting some lower rates,
because we leveraged the power of that agency. The law
basically tells the foreign-owned shipping alliances to do
three things: charge fair rates, stop profiting off our backs,
and fill your empty crates with American-made products. After
we passed it, and I do not think it was because the rules had
not even taken effect, but it was hanging out there, the
shipping rates fell 85 percent in that year. There were a
number of factors, but we were clearly serious when we passed a
bill like that, that we were going to go farther if it did not
get done.
So I guess I would start with you, Ms. DiBella and Mr.
Harvey. I told you about the bill, and if confirmed, will you
commit to vigorously enforcing the Ocean Shipping Reform Act?
Ms. DiBella. Yes, I will.
Senator Klobuchar. Mr. Harvey.
Mr. Harvey. Yes, ma'am. I think important compliance
functions, investigations, and enforcement are critical, and
that is probably why they got the message, but the message has
to continue to be sent. So definitely.
Senator Klobuchar. OK. The Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway
System moves over 200 million tons of cargo each year. As Mr.
Harvey, you mentioned in your testimony, the Great Lakes
shipping industry supports tens of thousands of jobs directly,
and is a vital economic engine for cities, towns, and people of
the region. How will you make sure the FMC supports the needs
of our inland seas, not just those on the coast?
Mr. Harvey. Thank you for that question. I think that we
will continue to do investigations like we have done with the
Canada in the Ballast Water Regulations, and to make sure that
American shippers and the lakers are not harmed. I think the
FMC has been able to carve out some exemptions for some of
that, but I think the battle goes on.
Senator Klobuchar. OK.
Mr. Harvey. Thank you.
Senator Klobuchar. I guess I will turn to you, Mr. Carmel,
and I would note the Duluth Port is an incredible place. What
were you going to say?
Mr. Carmel. It is. I have actually been to Duluth.
Senator Klobuchar. Yes. Was it warm?
Mr. Carmel. No, but----
[Laughter.]
Mr. Carmel. I was representing a paper company so I had to
be there. Any time, you know.
Senator Klobuchar. Well, of course, that is some of the
shipping that goes on there, iron ore. I mean, it is kind of an
incredible place, Duluth is----
Mr. Carmel. It is.
Senator Klobuchar.--that port, and we are working very hard
on things, that I see Senator Sullivan, like icebreakers and
other things that are necessary to keep that Great Lakes
shipping lane strong and open. So along those lines, Mr.
Carmel, when shippers are delayed by port congestion, inland
freight bottlenecks, outdated infrastructure, products do not
arrive on time, businesses suffer, costs go up. How will you
work to strengthen maritime and multimodal supply chains,
resilience, and efficiency?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. One of the problems that we
had during the supply chain crisis was surge and stop, surge
and stop. We need to have a stable demand, predictable demand.
We need to be able to manage flows through our ports so that we
do not have too much stuff trying to go at one time and then
not enough stuff going at others. So that is across a number of
activities. Certainly, I think we can use information better
than we use now. That, to me, would be a big one.
Senator Klobuchar. Very good. Thank you. And then, Mr.
Petty, we care a lot about NOAA and weather in Minnesota. How
do you plan to recruit qualified employees? We are obviously
concerned. I will ask you two separate questions, because my
time is running out here. And then also, could you look into
the Minnesota Sea Grant? It is a research and education program
that supports fisheries, tourism. I mentioned the Great Lakes
but we also, as Senator Rosen mentioned, we have 15,000 lakes,
and that is just 10,000 like on our license plates. And could
you talk about both of those things?
Mr. Petty. Yes, Senator. Thank you. Lots of good questions,
and in your Sea Grant question, as well. I do look forward to
getting into the department and taking a look at that. I know
specifically there are the priority areas. But that partnership
and that collaboration that can take place with institutions,
researchers, play a vital part within NOAA, and I look forward
to working with you so that we can continue that collaboration.
With regards to the other areas of the National Weather
Service, the importance of staff, it really gets back to making
sure that the priorities with what the mission calls for,
within health and safety and resources within NOAA, and we are
delivering the technical and the advanced science so that
decisions can be made by multiple agencies and states and
resources.
Senator Klobuchar. And then you can just look into this
later, but the Great Lakes Restorative Initiative. This is in
Representative Stauber's district, Lake Superior, the
surrounding things. Always been bipartisan. You just heard from
some of the Great Lakes Senators on the Republican side, so
please keep that going strong.
Mr. Petty. Thank you, Senator. I sure will. Thank you.
Senator Klobuchar. Thank you.
STATEMENT OF HON. DAN SULLIVAN,
U.S. SENATOR FROM ALASKA
Senator Sullivan. Thank you, Senator Klobuchar, and I am
always reminded, you know, we have a little competition,
friendly competition with my friend from Minnesota and other
states. When she talks about Minnesota's 10,000 lakes or 15,000
lakes, I like to remind people that we have over 3 million
lakes in Alaska.
[Laughter.]
Senator Sullivan. It is by a magnitude of----
Senator Klobuchar. With most of them constantly frozen.
Senator Sullivan. That is true, but 3 million lakes. So I
just want you to remember that. Maybe we will put that on our
license plate too someday.
But I want to thank everybody. These are really important
positions, and I want to begin by covering an executive order
that President Trump issued on day one of his Administration.
It is called ``Unleashing Alaska's Extraordinary Resource
Potential.'' Very long. There is the President's signature. We
are the only state in the union that has got our own executive
order from this Administration. And it says that ``It is the
policy of the United States to fully avail itself of Alaska's
vast lands and resources for the benefit of the Nation and the
American citizens who call Alaska home.''
So I want to begin by getting from all the witnesses, a
commitment, if confirmed, and I think you are going to get
confirmed, to come up to Alaska soon, after your confirmation,
to see this extraordinary resource potential. You can come in
the winter when it is cold, or the summer, to do some fishing.
But can I get your commitment? We will start with you, Dr.
Carmel.
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. Actually, I look forward to
going back to Alaska. I have been there many times, and I would
love to come back. Thank you, sir.
Senator Sullivan. Great.
Ms. DiBella. I echo that. I have been there once on a
layover, a very brief layover, and I would like to be back for
a lot longer.
Senator Sullivan. Great.
Mr. Harvey. Sir, I agree to support that. I have been to
Alaska with my wife, fishing the Kenai and other great areas in
the state, and we love it.
Senator Sullivan. Great. Dr. Petty?
Mr. Petty. Absolutely.
Senator Sullivan. You are a UAF grad----
Mr. Petty. That is correct.
Senator Sullivan.--so we are very proud of you. I think you
might be the first UAF grad to hold this position. We have got
to double-check that. So we are excited for you to get back to
Alaska.
Mr. Petty. Excellent.
Senator Sullivan. Great. One of the elements of this
executive order, and you are already hearing it a lot, is the
EO directs Federal agencies to streamline permitting and
accelerate approvals of critical infrastructure projects in
Alaska. And yet, we continue to see lengthy and unnecessary
delays.
Let me give you one. It is kind of MARAD and NPIAS. It is a
MARAD grant for the Port of Adak, which we are going to be
doing a lot with. We have, in the defense bill, starting to
work to reopen the military base in Adak, out on the Aleutian
Island chain. Very strategic, but also important for fisheries.
This grant, the MARAD grant, has been stalled for months while
NPIAS completes its biological opinion.
Formal consultations began in June, but NPIAS did not
consider the application until late July. It has since
reassigned staff to start all over again, has told the people
of Adak that maybe they will get it out by December, maybe it
will slip to next year because of Federal Register timing.
Dr. Petty, this is, my view, classic deep state. No
offense. You know, I like all my constituents, but there are a
lot of Federal employees who would love to slow-roll everything
in Alaska. The President of the United States said, ``Enough.
We are done doing that, in Alaska, especially.''
So I need your commitment, if confirmed, and you are going
to get confirmed--I am a strong supporter of yours--to kind of
give NPIAS a little bit of a kick in the behind, saying we are
not doing this anymore. The Biden years of delaying, crushing
projects in Alaska, because far-left environmental groups
wanted that, they are over. Can you commit to me to get a
culture of accountability and urgency with permitting offices
throughout NOAA, if confirmed?
Mr. Petty. Senator, simply, yes, I look forward to it.
Senator Sullivan. And that one, in particular, but all the
other ones, as well?
Mr. Petty. Yes, sir.
Senator Sullivan. No more delays. We are not doing 7-year
permits anymore, 8-year permits.
Mr. Petty. Or longer.
Senator Sullivan. It is ridiculous. Killing the country.
And it particularly kills my state, which is why the President,
on day one, said, ``We are done with trying to crush Alaska,
Federal agencies. You are going to move forward.'' So we need
that leadership. I appreciate that.
Let me turn to another executive order, again from the
Trump administration. This is ``Restoring American Seafood
Competitiveness.'' I think Secretary Lutnick is off to a great
start. We had the Seafood Roundtable that we talked about
recently, with all the congressional delegation, Alaska
stakeholders. We have Administrator Jacobs. You know, my state,
again, is the superpower of seafood. Over two-thirds of all
seafood harvested in America--subsistence, sport, commercial--
comes from Alaska. Almost $2 billion of that is exported.
Almost $16 billion is contributed to the U.S. economy from
Alaska's seafood industry, 1.6 million jobs nationwide.
But you have heard it from Senator Cantwell. Unlike a lot
of industries in America, the CHIPS Act, look, all these
computer chip companies get a quarter of a trillion dollars in
subsidies. Our seafood industry needs two things from the
Federal Government--surveys and timely promulgation of
regulations to open fisheries. That is it, and that is under
you. And the surveys have not been going well.
Can I get your commitment to get us back to the gold
standard of serious surveys, but doing it in a way in which it
is prioritized, and again, in a way in which it is promoted in
the President's executive order on seafood competitiveness, in
addition to his executive order on Alaska?
Mr. Petty. Well, Senator, I know you have that executive
order memorized, and so----
Senator Sullivan. And I want you to have it memorized.
Mr. Petty. That is right. I am sure you do.
Senator Sullivan. Both of them, actually.
Mr. Petty. I look forward to working specifically with you
and your outstanding staff, who have incredible knowledge. So
yes, looking forward to each one of those items.
Senator Sullivan. Let me just get to one final one, and I
am going to turn it over to Senator Peters. Dr. Carmel, I think
you and I are meeting later today in my office, so I am looking
forward to that. I have a whole bunch of questions for you and
others for the record.
But it goes to NOAA's budget that we need to get out here
soon, their spend plan that includes, my understanding is to
approve NOAA and OMB fishery disaster declarations and funds
for the 2022 Yukon salmon, 2021 Upper Cook Inlet, and 2022
Kuskokwim salmon. Can you assure me that your first order of
business will be the approval of these disaster funds and the
recovery resources necessary?
Mr. Carmel. Senator, I look forward to getting into the
building and doing just that. I think even already confirming
Dr. Jacobs and him watching today and hearing it loud and
clear. So I look forward to working with you to move those
areas that you have highlighted forward, whether it is the
research gaps that are missing, and even those surveys, as
well.
Senator Sullivan. And we are going to do a lot together, as
you and I talked about in my office yesterday, on the salmon
challenges that we have.
Mr. Carmel. Yes, sir.
Senator Sullivan. Some of our salmon runs in Alaska are
doing great, sockeye salmon run in Bristol Bay. Some are doing
horrible, the King Run on the Yukon and the Kuskokwim. Very
important to my constituents. Our legislation addresses that,
but we have huge research gaps that we need to figure out and
address. So I appreciate your commitment on that.
I will have some more questions for the record for the
other witnesses. Thank you.
And I am now going to turn the entire hearing over to my
Democratic colleagues. I hope they do not undertake some kind
of coup on the Commerce Committee. So with that, Senator
Markey, I think, or maybe Senator Peters. I am sorry. Senator
Peters.
STATEMENT OF HON. GARY PETERS,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MICHIGAN
Senator Peters [presiding]. Yes, thank you, Senator
Sullivan. Where is that gavel? You want to bring it right down
here.
Senator Sullivan. Now don't hold it for long.
Senator Peters. Oh, you have got it right there. Senator
Markey has it already. We are ready to roll. We are ready to
roll.
Senator Markey. You can go whenever you want.
Senator Peters. Trust us. Don't worry. Well, welcome to
each of you. Welcome and congratulations on your nominations.
Mr. Carmel, I would like to start with a topic that I
raised with Secretary Duffy at his nomination hearing, ensuring
both robust investment in our port infrastructure and the fair
distribution across all regions in the country. As I am sure
you know, MARAD Port Infrastructure Development Program
supports much needed investments in safety, efficiency, as well
as reliability of our Nation's ports. This sort of an
investment is absolutely essential to ensuring that our
manufacturers stay competitive and that the goods are reliably
delivered to consumers across the Midwest but also all across
the entire nation.
Program funding that has gone to our Great Lakes ports has
provided a major boost, but that funding has been hard to come
by, with the Great Lakes ports receiving as little as two
percent of the funds in the past years. As a matter of fact,
the Gulf ports have not gotten a fair shake either--it is not
just Great Lakes--which is why my legislation to fix this
funding disparity is cosponsored by Senators Wicker and Cornyn,
along with my fellow Great Lakes colleagues, Senators Baldwin,
Young, Duckworth, and Moreno. All bipartisan support for these.
This funding disparity is simply unacceptable, and when I
raised this issue with Secretary Duffy, to his credit he fully
agreed that it is unacceptable. And he committed to work with
me to ensure robust and fair funding for Great Lakes ports
going forward.
So Mr. Carmel, do you commit to the same? Specifically, if
confirmed, one, will you support robust funding for our ports
through the Port Infrastructure Development Program?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. If I am given the honor of
being confirmed, I look forward to working with you to advance
that agenda. Yes, sir.
Senator Peters. Would you work to ensure the funding is
distributed fairly, so that our Great Lakes, as well as Gulf
ports, are not left at a competitive disadvantage, and will you
commit to awarding those grants so that critical ongoing
investments can proceed?
Mr. Carmel. I would need to get in the building. I am not
that familiar with the PDIP program at all. I have never worked
in it. But I would commit to working with you to make sure it
is administered fairly and effectively.
Senator Peters. So you would fully support fair funding,
making sure Gulf and Great Lakes ports, and you understand the
importance of those to our Nation's economy?
Mr. Carmel. Oh, absolutely. I have been in and out of Great
Lakes ports most of my sailing career, and I understand deeply
the importance of the Great Lakes ports to the heartland
manufacturing. So, yes.
Senator Peters. Great, especially overtaxed ports on the
coast, the East Coast, coming up the St. Lawrence Seaway and
into the Great Lakes can create a lot of opportunities for
further efficient movement of goods.
Mr. Carmel. Yes.
Senator Peters. Good. Mr. Petty, my next question is for
you. Harmful algal blooms pose a serious risk to water quality,
tourism, as well as public health in the Great Lakes. To give
you a sense of just how devastating these outbreaks can be, a
toxic algal bloom in Lake Erie left residents in Toledo without
safe drinking water for three full days recently. NOAA's
research and forecasting capabilities are absolutely essential
for early detection or mitigation strategies and long-term
solutions that will protect our communities as well as our
ecosystems from future outbreaks.
However, despite unwavering--once again, unwavering--
bipartisan support for these activities here in Congress, this
Administration has sought drastic cuts to NOAA that would
jeopardize this critical mission.
So Mr. Petty, if confirmed, how will you ensure that NOAA
can support and meet the growing needs for harmful algal bloom
detection and forecasting to ensure safe, clean water for Great
Lakes communities, agriculture, and industry? As you well know,
millions and millions of people rely every day on water from
the Great Lakes to drink, and for these other three key
functions. And as part of your answer, could you speak to the
importance of having sufficient staff and funding at NOAA to be
able to carry out these important activities?
Mr. Petty. Yes, Senator. Thank you for that question. HABs
is an issue that needs to be fully addressed in many ways. The
commitment that I will make, for sure, is that we are getting
the best available science for those areas to address these
HABs issues. It is not only Great Lakes but it is multiple
areas up and down our coastal states, as well as the
relationship that we have with other agencies that also get
resources and funding specifically. That is the area that is
the priority, of making sure that all the different agencies--
Army Corps, Interior--have the resources that they need to
directly address these HABs issues, including the Department of
Agriculture.
Senator Peters. So in terms of staff at NOAA, if there are
shortfalls you will be an aggressive advocate to make sure you
have the resources and the people----
Mr. Petty. Correct.
Senator Peters.--to actually do that work?
Mr. Petty. Yes. Looking forward to being able to get into
the building and making sure that the priorities and that we
have all the critical staff to meet the mission that you have
set forth.
Senator Peters. Very good. Well, thank you.
I now turn the floor over to Senator Markey, who will also
have the exclusive control of the gavel at this point.
STATEMENT OF HON. EDWARD MARKEY,
U.S. SENATOR FROM MASSACHUSETTS
Senator Markey [presiding]. So I hope you packed a lunch.
[Laughter.]
Senator Markey. Thank you, Senator Peters. Seaport projects
create good-paying union jobs for Americans and develop
infrastructure that lasts for decades. These projects take
years of expensive planning, but they bring huge economic
benefits to both blue and red states.
If confirmed, Mr. Carmel, you would be in charge of the
Port Infrastructure Development Program, and this is an
incredibly important program. It delivers major support for the
ports that keep our Nation running.
But in August of this year, the Trump administration
arbitrarily canceled millions of dollars of grants under this
program, pulling the rug out from port projects that were
construction ready. Ports across America now cannot trust the
Federal Government to support port projects based on the merits
because they are getting canceled based on politics, Mr.
Carmel.
Mr. Carmel, do you believe that arbitrary and sudden
cancellations of Port Infrastructure Development grants
decrease trust between ports and Maritime Administration?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, Senator. I am not familiar with the
situation that you are talking about. Again, I am not familiar
at all with the PDIP program, other than I know it exists. I
have never worked in it. I would need to get into the building
to understand what happened and why, and I can commit to you to
working with you to sort things out. I can tell you that as a
general rule, stability is important to our industry.
Senator Markey. Well, we agree with that, and our MARAD
Administration will have to grapple with the fact that right
now our ports can no longer trust this Administration to keep
its word and protect their workers or their investments to have
stability. It just does not exist. It is a highly unstable
environment.
So Mr. Carmel, do you believe it is appropriate for the
Administration to kill American maritime and construction jobs
by canceling grant awards for political reasons?
Mr. Carmel. Senator, I was not here then. I do not
understand what happened. I would actually need to get into the
building and sit with the Maritime Administration staff to
understand what happened, to be able to give you an answer to
the question.
Senator Markey. Well, I do not think it is appropriate. I
do not think the 800 union workers in Massachusetts who are not
getting a paycheck, thanks to the Trump administration, think
it is appropriate either. It is just arbitrary, it is
capricious, it is political. That is what is happening to 800
people now without a job.
Mr. Carmel, if confirmed, would you work to restore Port
Infrastructure Development Program grants that were canceled
despite the fact that the projects met all the terms of their
grant agreements?
Mr. Carmel. Thank you, sir. And again, if I am given the
honor of confirmation I can commit to trying to understand the
situation. I was not there. I do not understand what happened.
And without having the facts I really am not in a position to
give an answer, other than to say I would commit to learning
about it.
Senator Markey. Well, if we play politics with nonpartisan
port infrastructure grants it sets a terrible, but a powerful
precedent for administrations to come, that they can just move
in politically and kill projects because they come under the
control of Democratic states, or in the future, Republican
states, and that is just a terrible precedent to be set in the
first 10 months of the Trump administration. Because it makes
it very difficult to work on a bipartisan basis in Congress to
support these agencies, because you are not sure that what you
reach as an agreement is going to, in fact, be upheld, and be
agreed to.
The great humorist, Oscar Levant, used to have a joke that
covered this subject. It covers the era in which we are now
working, which was he would say, ``We will double-cross that
bridge when we get to it.'' So you reach an agreement, think
everything is great, and then down the line, on a partisan
basis, the Democratic projects get cut and the Republicans do
not. So it just makes it harder, a lot harder for all of us to
be able to operate in a world in which your word is your bond,
that you get the benefit of the bargain that you gave, and in
return you got for your home state.
But that whole era is now increasingly being viewed in a
rear-view mirror, because these are not hypothetical questions.
These attacks already happened, taking paychecks out of
workers' pockets and taking investment out of portside
communities, and it is just unacceptable that the Trump
administration is punishing communities just because they did
not vote for him in 2024. It is just absolutely a destruction
of the bipartisan construct of the U.S. Congress.
Mr. Carmel, the Trump administration has told the country
we are experiencing, quote, ``an energy emergency,'' yet this
Administration is trying to kill offshore wind projects,
destroy union jobs, and keep megawatts of clean power off the
grid. Mr. Carmel, yes or no. Do you believe that the offshore
wind industry can contribute to the development of American
ports and American shipping, create more American jobs, and
also provide more megawatts for the grid?
Mr. Carmel. Again, I was not involved in any of those
discussions. I was not there. Energy policy is outside of my
area of expertise. So I would need to get in the building to
understand the issues and where MARAD intersects with them, to
be able to give you an answer.
Senator Markey. Well, you do not have to go in that
building to know that electricity prices have gone up 10
percent since Donald Trump was sworn in this year, 10 percent.
That is on the front page of newspapers across the country.
That is dramatic what is happening.
Mr. Carmel, do you agree that it is not in the national
interest to raise energy prices for households in the United
States?
Mr. Carmel. Again, Senator, energy policy, in general, is
just not my swim lane. And so I am not qualified to answer the
question.
Senator Markey. Well, ultimately all of these coastal
decisions are going to have an incredible impact on the
electricity rates for families in our country. It is now
increasing at triple the rate of inflation, and a lot of it is
due to the energy policy of the Trump administration, the
cancellation of offshore wind projects, and then the ripple
effect that it has upon the electricity rates for everyone else
within those communities that have been now denied those extra
megawatts, that have been turned into nega-watts that just do
not exist.
Well, in addition to Trump administration's attacks on
American-made wind industry, another driver of rising costs is
the surge in fossil fuel exports. As Administrator of MARAD,
you would be directly responsible for making sure that deep-
water export terminals do not receive permits if they are not
in the national interest or consistent with national policy
goals and objectives, including national security, energy
sufficiency domestically, and environmental quality
domestically.
As you review these export terminal permits, I urge you to
prioritize lower domestic costs, environmental protection over
the higher profits for oil and gas companies. And I urge you to
do that, sir. It is an important part of your responsibility.
And I would say, as now we are exporting upwards of 15
percent of all of our natural gas overseas, the companies get a
bigger price for it, once it hits the open market, and get it
in the ship and get it off our shore. But it has a dramatic
impact on the price of natural gas here, where the remaining
natural gas becomes much more expensive, because you have
reduced it by 15 percent to sell it overseas. That then impacts
small businesses. It impacts consumers all across our Nation.
Dr. Petty, two questions to you. Because of DOGE and Trump
we are losing invaluable research in fisheries expertise
throughout the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Dr. Petty, do you agree to support the Northeast Fisheries
Science Center and the important work that it does, if you are
confirmed?
Mr. Petty. Senator, thank you. It is an important question.
For sure, with NOAA fisheries, the whole northeastern part of
the Atlantic and the fisheries aspect, we have great staff up
there that are doing amazing work in jobs up there. My priority
is to making sure that they continue to do their work and that
they are doing it with all the resources that they have
available to them.
Senator Markey. Do you agree that it is critical to protect
the NOAA scientists so that they can continue their work on
fisheries issues?
Mr. Petty. Senator, I take seriously the scientific
integrity of making sure that we are providing the best
available science and that the scientists have the resources
that they have to make sure that they get their work done, that
Congress has given them direct mission to do.
Senator Markey. Well, I would invite you to come to visit
important NOAA facilities in Massachusetts----
Mr. Petty. I look forward to that.
Senator Markey.--if you are confirmed.
Mr. Petty. Yes. Thank you, Senator. I appreciate that.
Senator Markey. We would look forward to that.
So Mr. Carmel, Ms. DiBella, Mr. Harvey, Dr. Petty, my final
question is required of all nominees. If confirmed, do you
pledge to work collaboratively with this Committee to provide
thorough and timely responses to the Committee's requests and
to appear before the Committee when requested?
Mr. Carmel. Yes, Senator, I do.
Ms. DiBella. Yes, Senator. You have my word.
Mr. Harvey. Yes, sir.
Mr. Petty. Yes, Senator.
Senator Markey. Thank you. So I have 16 letters of support
from various organizations for Mr. Carmel's, Ms. DiBella's, and
Dr. Petty's nominations, and I ask unanimous consent to have
those letters inserted in the hearing record. Without
objection, so ordered.
[The information referred to follows:]
National Water Resources Association
October 20, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member
Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
On behalf of the National Water Resources Association (NWRA), I
want to express our strong support for the nomination of Dr. Tim Petty
to serve as the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and
Atmosphere (NOAA).
NWRA is a nonprofit federation of state water resources
associations, regional associations, agriculture and municipal water
agencies, and industrial water groups. Our members provide water and
hydropower to approximately 50 million individuals, families,
agricultural producers and other industries that support our
communities large and small, our economy and environment.
Dr. Petty is a devoted public servant who will bring extensive
experience and proven leadership in natural resource management to this
position. Having previously served as Assistant Secretary for Water and
Science at the Department of Interior, NWRA witnessed firsthand his
effective leadership in managing water development, regulatory
responsibilities, and policy initiatives essential to the sustainable
management of the Nation's water resources. NWRA has also worked
closely with Dr. Petty in his most recent role as a Professional Staff
Member on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee's Water
Resources and Environment Subcommittee, where he applied his expertise
to legislative and oversight matters concerning water infrastructure
and hazardous waste management.
Dr. Petty's years of experience have allowed him to build a strong
network across the natural resources community, where collaboration is
essential to shaping coastal and ocean management, resilience, and
fisheries policy. His ability to connect policy with practical
solutions, combined with his commitment to public service, positions
him well to lead efforts that strengthen our natural resources and the
communities that rely on them.
The NWRA confidently endorses the appointment of Dr. Tim Petty for
Assistant Secretary of NOAA. His experience and leadership will
strengthen the agency's work and help advance its mission.
Thank you for considering our views on this important nomination.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or
require additional information.
Sincerely,
Greg Morrison,
Executive Vice President,
National Water Resources Association.
______
Modesto Irrigation District
Turlock Irrigation District
October 6, 2025
Honorable Ted Cruz,
Chairman
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Members of the
Committee:
On behalf of the Modesto Irrigation District (MID) and Turlock
Irrigation District (TID), we are pleased to express support for Dr.
Timothy Petty as the nominee for Assistant Secretary for Oceans and
Atmosphere at the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere plays an
important role providing accountable oversight to NOAA Fisheries
including implementation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). These
responsibilities directly affect the availability and affordability of
water and power for our customers, and we are confident Dr. Petty has
the experience and skill to find balanced solutions that protect
species and our local communities at the same time.
We have worked with Dr. Petty on numerous Western water issues and
have found him to be a principled leader with a deep understanding of
the challenges faced by agricultural communities and water users. His
prior service as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the
Department of the Interior and as Congressional staff in the House and
Senate demonstrates his capability and commitment to pursuing durable,
science-based solutions to challenging water resources issues.
In his previous role, he has also led interagency efforts such as
the Water Subcabinet and the National Drought Resilience Partnership,
promoting coordination and innovation in water resource management.
We are confident that Dr. Petty will bring practical experience,
collaborative spirit, and scientific integrity to this role. His
appointment would benefit both Federal fisheries management and the
agricultural communities that depend on sound policy. We strongly
support this nomination and strongly urge the Committee and the full
Senate to quickly approve Dr. Tim Petty's nomination.
Sincerely,
Jimi Netniss,
General Manager,
Modesto Irrigation District.
Brad Koehn,
General Manager,
Turlock Irrigation District.
______
American Farm Bureau Federation
October 9, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
The American Farm Bureau Federation writes in support of the
nomination of Dr. Timothy Petty to serve as Assistant Secretary of
Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and urges the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science, and Transportation to swiftly approve his
nomination. AFBF is our Nation's largest general farm organization,
working together to build a sustainable future of safe and abundant
food, fiber, timber and renewable fuel for our Nation and the world.
Dr. Petty is a dedicated public servant with decades of experience
serving our Nation as senior staff on Capitol Hill and at the
Department of the Interior. He also has a significant scientific
background as a geologist and hydrogeologist who earned a Ph.D.
studying surface hydrology. Dr. Petty is from Indiana and grew up on a
family farm and, therefore, understands the opportunities and
challenges facing our Nation's farmers. He has a unique and varied
background and set of experiences that has prepared him for this next
challenge.
We look forward to Dr. Petty's work at the department and his focus
on responding to the needs of the American people, especially farmers,
ranchers and landowners. Thank you for your attention to this important
matter and for your commitment to serving our Nation's farmers and
rural communities.
Sincerely,
Zippy Duvall,
President.
______
San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority
Sacramento, CA, October 20, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Submitted via e-mail
Re: Support for the Nomination of Dr. Tim Petty as Assistant Secretary
for Oceans and Atmosphere
Dear Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Committee Members,
The San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority (``Water Authority'')
is pleased to strongly endorse Dr. Timothy Petty as the next Assistant
Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere at the U.S. Department of Commerce.
The Water Authority is a public agency in California, comprised of
twenty-seven member agencies, and was formed in 1992 as a joint powers
authority. Twenty-five of these agencies contract with the United
States for the delivery of water from the Federal Central Valley
Project (``CVP''). The CVP is operated and managed by the United States
Bureau of Reclamation. The Water Authority acts as the operation and
maintenance entity for the CVP's Delta Division and south-of-Delta
facilities that the Water Authority's member agencies depend on for the
delivery of their water supply.
Most of the Water Authority's member agencies depend upon the CVP
as the principal source of water they provide to users within their
service areas. That water supply serves approximately 1.2 million acres
of California agricultural lands within areas of San Joaquin,
Stanislaus, Merced, Fresno, Kings, San Benito, and Santa Clara
Counties; a portion of the water supply for over 2 million people,
including in urban areas such as Silicon Valley in the San Francisco
Bay Area; and approximately 200,000 acres of managed wetlands and
wildlife refuges within the largest continuous wetland in the western
United States. Importantly, the San Joaquin Valley in California,
served in significant part by the CVP, produces nearly two-thirds of
the Nation's fruits and vegetables during certain periods of the year,
highlighting the region's importance to America's national security.
The Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere serves as the
Deputy Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (``NOAA'') and assists the Under Secretary of Commerce
for Oceans and Atmosphere in overseeing oceanic and atmospheric
research, policy, and operations. NOAA Fisheries is responsible for the
stewardship of the Nation's ocean resources and habitat. Guided by the
Magnuson-Stevens Act, NOAA Fisheries works in partnership with Regional
Fishery Management Councils to assess and predict the status of fish
stocks, set catch limits, ensure compliance with fisheries regulations,
and reduce bycatch. NOAA Fisheries also implements the Marine Mammal
Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act (``ESA'') for anadromous
and catadromous species, working to recover protected marine species
while supporting regional economies, including communities reliant on
imported water from the CVP and industries affected by management of
anadromous species in California's rivers. Our members--whose water
supply is reliant on watersheds that provide habitat for anadromous
fish, like salmon and steelhead trout--are significantly impacted by
ESA-related decisions made by NOAA Fisheries. As a result, this
appointed position holds particular importance for our member and our
region.
The Water Authority knows that Dr. Petty is a strong leader; he is
a respected professional, collaborative, guided by common sense and
high ethical standards. We have worked with Dr. Petty on numerous water
issues and have seen firsthand his grasp of the unique challenges in
states where Federal land and water management decisions directly
affect local communities.
Dr. Petty has extensive Federal policy-level experience gained from
his many years of public service on Capitol Hill and at the Department
of the Interior, including as the Senate-confirmed Assistant Secretary
for Water and Science at the Department of the Interior (``DOI''),
overseeing both the U.S. Geological Survey and the U.S. Bureau of
Reclamation. His career spans private-sector work as a geologist and
hydrogeologist in Indiana and California, a legislative and policy
expert advising three United States Senators, and executive leadership
in DOI under the George W. Bush administration as both Deputy and
Acting Assistant Secretary for Water and Science.
Dr. Petty also co-chaired the Water Subcabinet, an interagency
coordination body established under Executive Order 13956 to streamline
Federal water resource management, infrastructure modernization,
drought resilience, and workforce development across agencies like the
Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Agriculture, NOAA,
U.S. Department of Energy, and the U.S. Army Corps.
We know that if confirmed, Dr. Petty will bring a level of
practical experience, scientific integrity, and a collaborative,
solutions-oriented approach that strengthens fisheries while balancing
the needs of farmers, communities, and wildlife enthusiasts throughout
California and the Pacific Northwest.
For these reasons, the Water Authority respectfully requests your
support for Dr. Tim Petty's nomination as Assistant Secretary for
Oceans and Atmosphere of the U.S. Department of Commerce. He will serve
the Department, the Administration, and the public exceedingly well in
this position.
Thank you for consideration. If you have any further questions,
please reach out to Scott Petersen, Water Policy Director, at
[email protected].
Respectfully,
Federico Barajas,
Executive Director,
San Luis & Delta-Mendota Water Authority.
______
National States Geographic Information Council
October 21, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
On behalf of the National States Geographic Information Council
(NSGIC), the national non-profit 501(c)(3) organization representing
state geographic information system (GIS) leaders and professionals
dedicated to advancing geospatial technology and policy at the state
and local levels, I write to express support for the nomination of Dr.
Timothy Petty for the position of Assistant Secretary of Commerce for
Oceans and Atmosphere at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA).
The role of the Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere is,
as you know, a position of extreme importance and the confirmation of
this nomination is vital to the fulfillment of the agency's mission to
serve the Nation by providing reliable scientific information to
describe and understand changes in climate, weather, oceans, and
coasts. As the Department of Commerce's premier agency for atmospheric
and oceanic science, the expeditious confirmation of a qualified
nominee for this appointment is paramount to maintain the great work of
this agency.
NSGIC believes that Dr. Petty is uniquely qualified to fulfill the
responsibilities of this role. With nearly two decades of experience in
Federal water and science policy, including his tenure as Assistant
Secretary for Water and Science at the Department of the Interior where
he oversaw the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the Bureau of
Reclamation, Dr. Petty will no doubt hit the ground running. In that
capacity, he served as Co-Chair of the National Drought Resilience
Partnership, coordinating interagency efforts on drought forecasting,
research, and technology. He previously served as Acting Assistant
Secretary and Deputy Assistant Secretary for Water and Science during
the George W. Bush Administration, and holds a Ph.D. from the
University of Alaska Fairbanks.
NSGIC and its member states work very closely with NOAA to advance
its mission by providing geospatial data integration, GIS support, and
policy coordination--to name a few. Our contributions include
supporting initiatives like the Digital Coast Partnership, which
leverages lidar, elevation data, and coastal mapping to enhance
resilience and decision-making at state and local levels. Our
membership sees firsthand the many benefits NOAA provides our Nation,
states, counties, tribal governments,
first-responders, institutions of higher learning, and many others.
We look forward to continuing to support that important work under the
leadership of Dr. Petty, should he be confirmed.
I urge you and your colleagues to give full and fair consideration
to this nomination, and to expeditiously confirm Dr. Petty for the
position of Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Mark Yacucci,
President,
National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC).
Cc: John S. Jordan,
CAE Executive Director
National States Geographic Information Council (NSGIC)
______
Association of California Water Agencies
October 20, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
RE: Support for Nomination of Timothy Petty to be Assistant Secretary
for Oceans and Atmosphere of the U.S. Department of
Commerce
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
The Association of California Water Agencies (ACWA) writes to
support the nomination of Dr. Timothy Petty to serve as Assistant
Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere for the U.S. Department of
Commerce.
ACWA is the largest statewide coalition of public water agencies in
the United States. ACWA represents approximately 470 member agencies
that are responsible for delivering about 90 percent of the water to
communities, farms, and businesses in California. ACWA and its members
are dedicated to providing a high-quality, reliable water supply in an
environmentally sustainable and fiscally responsible manner.
Several of ACWA's key priorities align with the National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). For example, ACWA members seek
to obtain Federal permits from the National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS) and improve forecasting and modeling to predict water supply
availability. Dr. Petty's expertise as a scientist, engineer, and
dedicated public servant will only strengthen the Agency's capabilities
in these critical areas.
Dr. Petty is highly qualified to serve as Assistant Secretary for
Oceans and Atmosphere at the Department of Commerce and as Deputy
Administrator of NOAA. Dr. Petty brings a strong combination of Federal
government experience and scientific expertise that will enhance the
Agency's critical work implementing the Endangered Species Act (ESA)
through NOAA Fisheries and advancing watershed forecasting efforts such
as Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations (FIRO).
Dr. Petty's extensive public service includes well over a decade
working in Congress, serving as Assistant Secretary for Water and
Science at the Department of the Interior (DOI) during the first Trump
Administration, and previously holding senior leadership roles at DOI
including Acting Assistant Secretary and Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Water and Science, under President George W. Bush. Holding a Bachelor's
degree in Geosciences from Purdue University, a Master's in Business
Management from the University of Maryland University College, and a
Doctorate in Water Science and Policy from the University of Alaska
Fairbanks, Dr. Petty's educational background supplements his
dedication to applying evidence-based, science-driven solutions to
Federal policymaking and program implementation.
The West faces a great challenge contending with the worsening,
historic drought. NOAA has continued to play a major role in helping
our Nation work through this drought while balancing support for
communities, businesses, agriculture, and ecosystem restoration. Dr.
Petty is well qualified to navigate the unique challenges that Western
states face through this trying time. ACWA welcomes the opportunity to
work with Dr. Petty in a collaborative and constructive manner. We
strongly support his nomination and urge his swift confirmation.
Please do not hesitate to reach out if we can be of assistance in
advancing Dr. Petty's nomination by contacting Ian Lyle, ACWA's
Director of Federal Relations at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Ian Lyle,
Director of Federal Relations
Association of California Water Agencies
CC:
The Honorable Alex Padilla, U.S. Senate
The Honorable Adam Schiff, U.S. Senate
______
The Sanborn Map Company, Inc.
Colorado Springs, CO, October 20, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
I am writing on behalf of The Sanborn Map Company, Inc., where I
serve as Owner and Chief Executive Officer, to express my
enthusiastic support for the nomination of Dr. Timothy Petty to serve
as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere at the
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). As a leader in
the geospatial industry with over 150 years of experience delivering
innovative remote sensing and mapping solutions to the U.S. government,
Sanborn has a vested interest in the effective stewardship of our
Nation's oceans, atmosphere, and environmental data resources--all of
which geospatial data and GIS services support. Dr. Petty's
distinguished career and proven leadership in water science,
environmental management, and interagency collaboration make him
exceptionally qualified for this critical role.
Dr. Petty brings a wealth of expertise to NOAA, honed through his
tenure as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the Department
of the Interior, where he oversaw the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and
the Bureau of Reclamation. In that capacity, he played a pivotal role
in advancing drought resilience strategies, including his leadership as
Co-Chair of the National Drought Resilience Partnership (NDRP). This
interagency effort coordinates Federal policies, research,
forecasting, and technology to enhance community preparedness for
natural disasters--a mission that directly aligns with NOAA's core
functions in weather prediction, climate monitoring, and oceanic
resource management. His prior service as Deputy Assistant Secretary
for Water and Science further underscores his deep understanding of the
scientific and policy challenges at the intersection of water
resources, environmental protection, and economic resilience.
In addition to his work with multiple presidential administrations,
Dr. Petty served as a senior advisor to three United States Senators,
including Senator Connie Mack, Senator Rick Santorum, and Senator James
Risch, as well as a Senior Professional Staff Member on the House
Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.
At Sanborn, we have long partnered with Federal agencies like USGS
and NOAA to deliver high-resolution geospatial data that informs
decision-making on pressing issues such as flood risk assessment,
infrastructure planning, and landslide mitigation, to name a few. Dr.
Petty's track record of fostering collaboration between agencies,
including his support for NOAA's National Water Model, positions him to
strengthen these vital partnerships. Under his guidance, NOAA can
accelerate the integration of geospatial innovations with atmospheric
and oceanic data, enabling more precise forecasts, enhanced
environmental modeling, and robust support for industries from
agriculture to disaster response.
As Legislative Affairs Chairman of MAPPS, the national
association representing over 100 private-sector geospatial firms
and 10,000 professionals, I have witnessed firsthand the
importance of leaders who champion science-based policies and public-
private collaboration. Dr. Petty embodies this ethos. His nomination
represents an opportunity to elevate NOAA's mission in an era of
increasing environmental challenges, ensuring that geospatial and
atmospheric sciences continue to safeguard American lives, livelihoods,
and landscapes.
I urge the Committee to confirm Dr. Petty without delay. His
confirmation will not only advance NOAA's strategic priorities but
also reinforce the geospatial sector's role in supporting congressional
intent for resilient infrastructure and environmental stewardship.
Thank you for your leadership on these matters and for considering this
letter in your deliberations.
Sincerely,
John Copple,
Owner and Chief Executive Officer,
The Sanborn Map Company, Inc.
______
Idaho Water Users Association
Boise, ID, September 22, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz, Chairman,
Hon. Maria Cantwell, Ranking Member,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
United States Senate,
Washington, DC.
RE: Support for Dr. Tim Petty's Nomination
Dear Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell and Members of the
Committee:
On behalf of the Idaho Water Users Association (IWUA), I write to
express support for Dr. Timothy Petty as the next Assistant Secretary
for Oceans and Atmosphere of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
IWUA is a non-profit organization representing approximately 300
canal companies, irrigation districts, ground water districts,
municipal and public water suppliers, hydroelectric companies,
aquaculture interests, agri-businesses, professional firms and
individuals throughout Idaho. Our purpose is to promote, aid and assist
in the development, control, conservation, preservation and utilization
of Idaho's water resources.
As the Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere, Dr. Petty
would serve as the Deputy Administrator of the National Oceanic and
Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and assist the Under Secretary of
Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere in overseeing oceanic and
atmospheric research, policy, and operations. NOAA Fisheries is
responsible for the stewardship of the Nation's ocean resources and
habitat. Using the Magnuson-Stevens Act as the guide, NOAA Fisheries
works in partnership with Regional Fishery Management Councils to
assess and predict the status of fish stocks, set catch limits, ensure
compliance with fisheries regulations, and reduce bycatch. Under the
Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act (ESA), NOAA
Fisheries works to recover protected marine species while allowing
economic and recreational opportunities.
IWUA members are impacted by BSA-related decisions made by NOAA
Fisheries. We rely on NOAA fisheries to make reasons, science-based
decisions that balance the needs of communities, economies and
fisheries. Thus, this appointed position is critically important to our
organization.
Dr. Petty is a strong leader, a well-respected professional and a
person with vision, common sense and high ethical standards. We have
worked with Dr. Petty in the past on many water issues. He understands
the unique challenges faced by water users--particularly in basins
where the Federal government plays a significant role in the management
of land and water.
Dr. Petty has extensive Federal policy-level experience gained from
his time on Capitol Hill and at the Department of the Interior,
including as the Senate-confirmed Assistant Secretary for Water and
Science at the Department of the Interior (DOI). He co-chaired the
Water Subcabinet during the first Trump administration, an interagency
coordination body established to streamline Federal water resource
management, infrastructure modernization, drought resilience, and
workforce development across agencies like. EPA, USDA, NOAA, DOE, and
the Army Corps.
We are confident that Dr. Petty will bring a level of practical
experience, collaboration, intelligence and strong scientific integrity
to this position that will serve not only the interests of the Federal
government but also strengthen important fisheries while respecting
communities and economies up and down the West Coast.
IWUA respectfully requests your support for Dr. Tim Petty's
nomination as the next Assistant Secretary for Oceans and Atmosphere of
the U.S. Department of Commerce. We know he will serve the Department,
the Administration, and our Nation very well in this important
position.
Sincerely,
Paul Arrington,
Executive Director and General Counsel,
Idaho Water Users Association.
______
Dear Senator,
On behalf of the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA),
representing the seaports that connect U.S. commerce to the global
economy, we write in strong support of the nomination of Laura DiBella
to serve as a Commissioner on the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC).
The FMC plays a critical role in ensuring fair competition and
reliability in our Nation's maritime supply chains, particularly at a
time when global instability, shifting trade patterns, and supply chain
disruptions threaten American businesses and workers. Filling the
Commission's current vacancies with qualified leaders is essential to
providing continuity, expertise, and effective oversight of the
industry.
Laura DiBella is exceptionally qualified for this role. She brings
decades of experience across both public and private sectors in
maritime, trade, and economic development. Her leadership as President
and CEO of Enterprise Florida and as Executive Director of the Florida
Harbor Pilots Association reflects her deep understanding of both
business and regulatory environments. Her direct operational
perspective as Port Director of the Port of Fernandina Ocean Highway
and Port Authority further demonstrates her familiarity with the daily
challenges and opportunities facing U.S. ports. Beyond ports, her
service as Executive Director of the Nassau County Economic Development
Board underscores her commitment to advancing regional economic growth
tied to maritime commerce.
For these reasons, AAPA strongly urges the Senate Commerce,
Science, and Transportation Committee to expeditiously advance Laura
DiBella's nomination and for the full Senate to confirm her as a
Commissioner on the FMC. Her proven leadership, breadth of maritime and
economic development experience, and commitment to strengthening U.S.
supply chains make her an invaluable addition to the Commission.
We deeply appreciate your consideration of this important
nomination.
Very Respectfully,
Cary S. Davis,
President and CEO,
American Association of Port Authorities.
______
Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (AFL-CIO)
Washington, DC, September 17, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Hon, Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member
U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Re: Nomination of Laura DiBella to the Federal Maritime Commission
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
On behalf of the Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association
(M.E.B.A.), the Nation's oldest maritime labor union representing
licensed U.S. merchant marine officers, I write to express our strong
support for the nomination of Laura DiBella to serve as a Commissioner
of the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC).
Ms. DiBella has demonstrated throughout her career a deep
understanding of the maritime industry and an abiding commitment to its
successful growth. Her leadership as Executive Director of the Florida
Harbor Pilots Association, Port Director of the Port of Fernandina, and
Secretary of Commerce for the State of Florida reflects both her
expertise and her proven ability to navigate the complex challenges
facing U.S. ports, maritime commerce, and supply chains.
Notably, Ms. DiBella has shown that she values and respects the
invaluable role of maritime workers in supporting our Nation's growing
economy. She has worked collaboratively with maritime labor,
recognizing that a strong U.S.-flag fleet and skilled mariners are
indispensable to our national defense and economic security. At a time
when foreign carriers and alliances threaten to dominate international
shipping, Ms. DiBella's leadership will help ensure that the FMC
remains vigilant in protecting U.S. jobs, businesses, and fair
competition in the global shipping industry.
Her crisis management during the COVID-19 pandemic, where she
safeguarded critical maritime operations while ensuring the workforce
remained supported, exemplifies the steady and capable leadership she
will bring to the Commission. As the Administration works to revitalize
the U.S. maritime industry, Ms. DiBella's vision and experience will be
invaluable in promoting policies that strengthen the U.S.-flag fleet
and ensure our merchant mariners can continue their essential service
to the Nation.
For these reasons, M.E.B.A. is proud to support the nomination of
Laura DiBella to the Federal Maritime Commission and urges the
Committee to move swiftly on her confirmation.
Sincerely,
Adam Vokac,
President,
Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association.
______
Florida Harbor Pilots Association
Fort Lauderdale, FL, September 9, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
United States Senator for Texas,
Washington, DC.
RE: Letter of Recommendation for Laura DiBella for the Federal Maritime
Commission
Dear Senator Cruz:
It is my honor to recommend Laura DiBella for confirmation to the
Federal Maritime Commission. With her extensive background in maritime
policy, industry and marine operations, Laura has very unique
qualifications and insight which will be invaluable to the Federal
Maritime Commission's mission.
When I served as President of the Florida Harbor Pilots
Association, I hired Laura as the Executive Director in 2019. Hiring
Laura was the best decision I made as President, she did an excellent
job as Executive Director. She learned the harbor pilot's issues and
became very well respected in a short period of time with the Florida
Legislatures.
In addition, Laura was Florida's first female Secretary of
Commerce. Furthermore, she served as President of Business Development
at Florida Commerce, President/CEO at Enterprise Florida, Port Director
for Fernandina Port Authority, and President of the Florida Opportunity
Fund.
Laura's leadership qualities to inspire, lead, and make a positive
impact stand out in each position she has held. She is known for her
integrity, loyalty, and dedication. In my opinion, she will bring the
same level of professionalism and passion to the Federal Maritime
Commission, and make a great Commissioner.
In conclusion, without reservation, I wholeheartedly endorse Laura
DiBella for a seat on the Federal Maritime Commission. I am confident
that her appointment will enhance the Commission's efforts to foster a
competitive and efficient maritime industry for the United States.
Respectfully, I thank you for considering her nomination. If you have
any questions, please do not hesitate to call me.
Sincerely,
Captain Sam Stephenson, J.D.,
President Emeritus,
Florida Harbor Pilots Association.
______
UTC Overseas
Houston, TX, August 17, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman, U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member, U.S. Senate,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Subject: Strong Support for Senate Confirmation of Captain Stephen
Carmel, nominee to be U.S. Administrator, Maritime
Administration (MARAD), U.S. Department of Transportation
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
On behalf of UTC Overseas, headquartered in your home state of
Texas, I am writing to express our strong support for the Senate's
confirmation of Captain Stephen Carmel to be Administrator of MARAD.
As background, UTC Overseas was founded in New York in 1926 and
transferred its worldwide headquarters to Houston. With 50 offices
around the globe, we have been a leading provider of international
project logistics and transportation services for nearly a century.
From our Houston headquarters at 2 North Point Drive, we serve as a
critical link in America's export supply chain, facilitating the
movement of U.S. manufactured goods and equipment to infrastructure
projects worldwide.
As a U.S.-headquartered company with deep roots in Texas, UTC
Overseas is a strong advocate for Cargo Preference requirements and the
U.S. flag merchant fleet. These policies are essential to maintaining
America's maritime industrial base and ensuring that American workers
and American vessels benefit from U.S. government-impelled cargo. Our
company has assisted many clients of major U.S. OEMs and other U.S.
manufacturers with U.S. Export-Import Bank transactions, supporting
billions of dollars in American exports that create and sustain high-
paying jobs across the maritime, manufacturing, and logistics sectors.
Captain Carmel's extensive commercial maritime expertise makes him
uniquely qualified to lead MARAD during this critical period for
America's maritime industry. His four decades of experience--from
achieving his first command of a 40,000-ton tanker at age 26 to serving
in senior executive roles at Maersk Line Limited--provides the rare
combination of operational knowledge and business acumen needed to
execute the Administration's Maritime Action Plan.
If confirmed, Captain Carmel would become the first MARAD
Administrator since 2005 to hold a Master's Unlimited license, bringing
invaluable hands-on maritime experience to the role. His deep
understanding of commercial shipping operations, combined with his
corporate experience managing complex vessel operations, positions him
perfectly to advance policies that strengthen both our national
security sealift capability and our commercial maritime
competitiveness.
Texas is home to some of America's most important maritime
infrastructure, including the ports of Houston, Beaumont, Galveston,
and Corpus Christi. These facilities, along with the skilled maritime
workers they employ, are essential to America's role as a global
trading nation. Strong leadership at MARAD is crucial to ensuring that
Texas ports and the broader U.S. maritime transportation system remain
competitive with international rivals, particularly China, which now
builds 74 percent of the world's ships compared to America's 0.2
percent.
Captain Carmel's selection reflects the Administration's wise
recognition that rebuilding America's maritime industrial base requires
deep industry experience rather than purely military credentials. His
experience with the Maritime Security Program and understanding of
public-private partnerships will be invaluable as MARAD implements new
initiatives including the Maritime Security Trust Fund and Maritime
Prosperity Zones.
From our perspective as a Houston-based company that depends on
efficient maritime transportation systems and strong U.S. flag
policies, we believe Captain Carmel's nomination represents exactly the
kind of commercial-first leadership approach needed to revitalize
American maritime competitiveness.
We respectfully urge the Committee to move expeditiously on Captain
Carmel's confirmation so that MARAD can have the experienced leadership
it needs to execute the Administration's ambitious maritime agenda.
Thank you for your consideration of our views and your continued
leadership on issues vital to Texas and American maritime interests.
Sincerely,
Marco Poisler,
UTC Overseas COO--Global Energy & Capital Projects,
UTC Overseas, Inc.
cc: Majority Staff: Alexis Rudd
Minority Staff: Nikky Teutschel
______
Dredging Contractors of America
Washington, DC, 09 September 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Re: Nomination of Laura DiBella to be a Federal Maritime Commissioner
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking Member Cantwell:
On behalf of the Dredging Contractors of America, I write in strong
support of President Donald Trump's nomination of Laura DiBella to
serve as a Federal Maritime Commissioner. We respectfully urge her
swift confirmation to this critical role.
The Dredging Contractors of America represents private-sector
companies engaged in marine dredging, coastal restoration, harbor
maintenance, and marine construction for America's navigation channels,
port authorities, energy terminals, harbors, and U.S. military
installations nationwide.
We know Laura DiBella well. She has been a strong and effective
voice in the maritime, ports, and commerce sectors. Her distinguished
service includes leadership as Executive Director of the Florida Harbor
Pilots Association, Port Director of the Port of Fernandina Ocean
Highway and Port Authority, and Secretary of Commerce for the State of
Florida--experiences that uniquely prepare her to serve with
distinction on the Commission.
Ms. DiBella brings proven leadership and crisis management skills,
coupled with a clear vision for port expansion, infrastructure growth,
and the dredging and marine construction projects essential to U.S.
competitiveness. As Executive Director of the Florida Harbor Pilots
during the COVID-19 pandemic, it's a matter of record that she guided
the organization through unprecedented challenges, ensuring pilots
remained employed even as Florida's cruise industry--vital to the
state's economy--came to a standstill.
In closing, Laura DiBella is exceptionally qualified to serve as
Federal Maritime Commissioner.
Her leadership, experience, and commitment to strengthening
America's maritime sector will be an asset to the Commission and the
Nation. We urge her prompt confirmation and stand ready to provide any
additional information the Committee may require.
Respectfully,
William P. Doyle,
Chief Executive Officer,
Dredging Contractors of America.
______
Resolve Marine
September 19, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Cruz and Ranking member Cantwell:
It is with great pride and unwavering confidence that I write to
recommend Laura DiBella for confirmation as a Commissioner of the
Federal Maritime Commission. As Chief Executive Officer of Resolve
Marine, a global leader in maritime emergency response and salvage
operations, I have had the privilege of observing Ms. DiBella's career
and contributions to the maritime sector with deep respect and
admiration.
Ms. DiBella brings to this nomination a rare blend of strategic
vision, operational acumen, and public service dedication. Her tenure
as Florida's first female Secretary of Commerce and her leadership of
Enterprise Florida demonstrated her ability to navigate complex
regulatory environments, foster international trade relationships, and
champion maritime economic development. Her efforts have directly
supported the growth of port infrastructure,logistics innovation, and
the advancement of U.S. maritime competitiveness.
Throughout her career, Ms. DiBella has exemplified the values of
integrity, transparency, and collaboration.She has consistently engaged
stakeholders across government, industry, and community sectors to
build consensus and deliver results. Her understanding of the maritime
domain, from port operations to international shipping dynamics,
positions her uniquely to contribute to the Commission's mission of
ensuring a fair, efficient, and secure maritime transportation system.
In an era where global supply chains face unprecedented challenges,
the Federal Maritime Commission requires leaders who not only
understand the intricacies of maritime commerce but who also possess
the courage and clarity to act decisively. Ms. DiBella is such a
leader. Her appointment would bring a seasoned, principled, and
forward-thinking voice to the Commission.
I respectfully urge the Committee to confirm Laura DiBella to this
vital role. Her service will undoubtedly strengthen the Commission's
work and benefit the maritime industry and the Nation at large.
Sincerely,
Joseph Edward Farrell III,
Chief Executive Officer,
Resolve Marine.
______
U.S. Exporters Competitive Maritime Council
August 14th, 2025
Hon. Ted Cruz,
Chairman,
U.S. Senate Committee Commerce, Science, and Transportation
Washington, DC.
Hon. Maria Cantwell,
Ranking Member,
U.S. Senate Committee Commerce, Science, and Transportation
Washington, DC
Subject: Recommendation for Senate Confirmation of Captain Stephen
Carmel, nominee to be U.S. Administrator, Maritime
Administration (MARAD), U.S. Department of Transportation.
Dear Chairman Cruz, and Ranking Member Cantwell:
On behalf of the members of the U.S. EXPORTERS COMPETITIVE MARITIME
COUNCIL (ECMC), it is our pleasure to support the Senate's confirmation
of nominee Captain Stephen Carmel to be Administrator of MARAD.
As background, the ECMC (ecmc-us.org) was formed in 1997 to
represent the interests of U.S. exporters who are involved in export/
import trade, transportation and supply chain management of cargoes
that are required to support large-scale infrastructure projects
(Capital Projects). Our member companies (see below) make up a large
majority of leading U.S. companies responsible for these shipments.
Please note that Capital Projects have historically supported thousands
of high paying U.S. manufacturing, engineering, and service jobs. The
successful execution of these projects, and the ability of our U.S.
Companies to compete internationally, is highly dependent on an
efficient U.S. Maritime Transportation System that is well aligned with
our National Transportation System.
Captain Carmel's extensive commercial maritime expertise makes him
uniquely qualified to provide the leadership to execute the
Administration and Congressional bi-partisan efforts to rebuild
America's critical maritime industrial base. If confirmed, Captain
Carmel would bring a rare combination of operational and executive
experience at MARAD. As a graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy,
Captain Carmel would become the first MARAD Administrator since 2005 to
hold a Master's Unlimited license. He has also held several senior
level corporate positions within our maritime industry. Captain
Carmel's extensive commercial background would provides the necessary
insights to execute the Maritime Action Plan envisioned by the
Administration's Executive Order and the bi-partisan maritime
legislation currently under consideration in Congress.
Simply put, our country is a Maritime Nation with 43 States out of
50 having at least one seaport capable of facilitating U.S. Exports.
Sadly, our transportation port and intermodal infrastructure that
supports our maritime transportation system has fallen behind our
international competition such as China. Rebuilding our maritime
industrial base requires strong leadership at MARAD and the ability to
work with the Secretary and other Senate confirmed Modal Administrators
at the U.S. Department of Transportation. In view of the above, we urge
an expedited Senate confirmation of Captain Stephen Carmel to be
Administrator of MARAD.
Sincerely,
Jesus Mejias,
President,
ECMC.
cc: ECMC Membership
Majority Staff: Alexis Rudd
Minority Staff: Nikky Teutschel
MEMBER COMPANIES--alphabetical order
Air Products International Trade & Transportion, Inc.
Amos Logistics KBR
Babcock Power Kiewit
Bechtel Corporation Kuehne + Nagel
Bertling Logistics Linde Engineering America
Black & Veatch McDermott International
Crane Worldwide Plug Power
dbSchenker Powell Electric
deugro USA Siemens Gamesa
DHL Global Forwarding Technip Energies
Drexel Logistics TechnipFMC
DSV UTC Overseas
Fluor Vogt Power
Fracht Worley
Freeport McMorAn
______
Washington State House of Representatives
October 7th, 2025
ATTN: The Honorable Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell,
U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Cruz, Ranking Member Cantwell, and Members of the
Committee:
I am honored to strongly recommend Dr. Tim Petty for confirmation
as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere within the
U.S. Department of Commerce. Dr. Petty is an accomplished leader whose
extensive expertise, integrity, and record of service uniquely qualify
him to guide the Nation's work in advancing our oceans, atmosphere, and
critical natural resource programs.
I had the opportunity to work with Dr. Petty during his tenure as
Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the U.S. Department of the
Interior, and subsequently, as Senior Professional Staff Member for the
House Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment. In both roles,
he demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating complex water and
infrastructure challenges, fostering bipartisan solutions, and
advancing policies that directly benefit communities in Washington
State and across the country. His ability to bridge science, policy,
and practical implementation is rare, and has earned him the respect of
colleagues in both the Executive and Legislative branches.
A prime example of his leadership was his instrumental role in
restarting construction on the Columbia Basin Project--the largest
unfinished reclamation project in the Nation. Recognizing both the
political sensitivities and the pressing needs of communities deprived
of reliable water resources, Dr. Petty elevated the issue, provided
technical guidance, and successfully championed the project within the
Bureau of Reclamation and later in the House Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure. His persistence and vision helped
move this decades-delayed initiative forward, ensuring progress for
future generations.
Beyond his policy and technical expertise, Dr. Petty is deeply
respected for his character. He is approachable, thoughtful, and
committed to listening to stakeholders--from local community leaders to
Members of Congress. His broad professional network, coupled with his
specialized knowledge of Federal water, infrastructure, and
environmental policy, will make him an invaluable leader at the
Department of Commerce.
I strongly recommend Dr. Tim Petty's nomination. I am confident
that his experience, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to
public service will bring great value to the Agency and to the American
people.
Thank you for your consideration of this outstanding nominee.
Respectfully,
Representative Mary Dye
Washington State House of Representatives
9th Legislative District
Senator Markey. Senators will have until the close of
business on October 24 to submit questions for the record. The
nominees will have until the close of business on October 27 to
respond to the questions which are going to be given to you.
That concludes today's hearing, and with that the Committee
stands adjourned.
[Whereupon, at 12:32 p.m., the hearing was adjourned.]
A P P E N D I X
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Ted Cruz to
Stephen M. Carmel
Question 1. A recent American Affairs article\1\ warns that efforts
to rebuild America's maritime must ``navigate between the Scylla of
government coddling and the Charybdis of nonmarket opponents.'' If
confirmed, how would you revitalize the U.S. merchant marine and
shipbuilding base through targeted, market-driven measures--while
avoiding excessive subsidies or preferential treatment for legacy
contractors?
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ William Cahill & Jacqueline Deal, A Shining City on the Sea:
Rebuilding America's Maritime Industry, 9 AM. AFF. 2 (May 2025),
https://americanaffairsjournal.org/2025/05/a-shining-city-on-the-sea-
rebuilding-americas-maritime-industry/.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Answer. Thank you for the question, I agree that the U.S. maritime
industry needs to reduce its reliance on direct government support.
What is needed in its place is indirect support by adjusting national
policy to include maritime in trade deals to ensure the merchant marine
carries our Nation's commerce. This requires initial government direct
support for the transition. However, this support must be time-bound
and tied to the implementation of the indirect support structure.
Global shipping and shipbuilding are industries of scale--scale in
operations, supply chains, and global reach for comprehensive support.
To compete internationally, U.S. companies must achieve this scale.
MARAD's job is to create the conditions that enable this growth.
Therefore, we must walk a careful line: encouraging new market entrants
without discouraging the vital growth necessary to achieve that
essential scale.
Question 2. Taxpayer support for the maritime industry has at times
propped up underperforming firms without strengthening U.S. capacity.
Will you commit, if confirmed, to limiting MARAD assistance to
performance-based programs that reduce the risk of long-term industry
dependence? How will you work to accomplish this goal?
Answer. I agree that taxpayer support should drive performance, not
dependency. If confirmed, I'll ensure MARAD funding is tied to
measurable outcomes--specifically, more ships built here, more mariners
trained, and stronger commercial competitiveness, focusing on our
Nation's commerce. This means moving away from open-ended subsidies and
toward performance-based tools that reward innovation, efficiency, and
private investment. Every Federal dollar should strengthen national
capacity, not sustain firms that can't compete.
Question 3. Rigid contracting practices can hinder innovation. How
will this fact inform your approach to MARAD's role in overseeing ship
financing, training vessel acquisition, and reserve fleet management?
Answer. I share your concern about propping up inefficiency; as a
member of the maritime industry dealing with these issues, I've often
been personally frustrated by them. However, the problem isn't just
poor performance--it's that many of our maritime programs are built on
1950s models that no longer fit the world we operate in. Simply
tightening contracts on legacy programs like the Ready Reserve Fleet
won't solve that fundamental issue.
If confirmed, I'd push for a system-level rethink across the
enterprise (MARAD, MSC, TRANSCOM). This involves clarifying what
capabilities we actually need and then designing modern, performance-
based tools to deliver them. We must update both what we're doing and
how we do it.
Question 4. As Maritime Administrator, how will you ensure U.S.
shipbuilders and carriers remain innovative and globally competitive,
despite reduced pressure from foreign markets?
Answer. That question strikes at the heart of my focus on
rebuilding U.S. shipbuilding. The only way to make U.S. shipbuilders
truly innovative and competitive is to rebuild the industry so it's
once again exposed to international competition. Right now, isolation
has bred inefficiency. If we can move U.S. shipbuilding down the cost
curve through modernized yards, scalable production, and smarter demand
signals, our builders can compete globally. That revitalizes our
industrial base, attracts private capital, and naturally fixes industry
problems.
Moving U.S. shipbuilding down the cost curve is about restoring
both industrial competitiveness and national security. Today, our
shipyards are trapped in low-volume, high-cost cycles that make them
dependent on government contracts and completely divorced from
international commercial ship production best practices. The solution
isn't more protection--it's scale and modernization.
We need greenfield yards built around advanced modular
construction, digital engineering, and automation. These must be
supported by steady commercial demand so firms can plan long-term
investments. When that happens, per-unit costs drop dramatically,
private capital returns to the sector, and U.S. builders can compete
internationally. That revitalizes the broader industrial base--steel,
components, logistics--while giving us a more resilient sealift and
naval support foundation. In the process, a healthy, competitive
shipbuilding ecosystem naturally narrows the Jones Act freight-rate
wedge by bringing down transport costs. The economic and security
benefits move in the same direction.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Roger Wicker to
Stephen M. Carmel
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy
Background: The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy's (USMMA) facilities
lag behind the other service academies. Many of the buildings date back
to the 1940s and are unable to meet the needs of current and future
midshipmen. Given these conditions and the lack of significant
investment in campus infrastructure for decades, it is critical that
the Maritime Administration and Academy leadership implement their
Campus Modernization Plan expediently to rehabilitate and modernize the
campus.
Question 1. The conditions of the Merchant Marine Academy's
facilities fall below the other service academies. Many of the
buildings exhibit crumbling concrete, leaking pipes, mold, and
inadequate heating and air conditioning for the Midshipmen.
Question 2. Wouldn't you agree that the state of the campus makes
it hard to recruit top talent for this prestigious service academy?
Answer. Yes, I completely agree, and I thank Secretary Duffy for
his continued commitment and leadership to supporting the Merchant
Marine Academy. Secretary Duffy has made it a top priority to
expediently implement a modernization plan to rehabilitate the campus's
infrastructure. Modernizing the facilities is essential for recruiting,
as a state-of-the-art campus signals an investment in the midshipmen's
future and provides the technological environment needed for a 21st-
century maritime education. By offering competitive, high-quality
living and training spaces, the Academy can attract and retain the
Nation's brightest future leaders.
Question 3. If confirmed, will you commit to working with the
Department of Transportation to implement the Campus Modernization
Plan?
Answer. Yes, I look forward, if confirmed, to working with this
committee and all stakeholders to implement the plan and fix Kings
Point.
Maritime Security Program/Tanker Security Program
Background: The Maritime Security Program is a vital component of
our military strategic sealift and global response capability. It is
designed to ensure that the United States has a U.S. flag commercial
sealift capability and trained U.S. citizen merchant mariners available
in times of war or national emergencies. The Tanker Security Program
(TSP) ensures that a core fleet of U.S.-based product tankers can
operate competitively in international trade and enhance U.S. supply
chain resiliency for liquid fuel products. The TSP will provide the
Department of Defense with assured access to 10 U.S.-registered product
tank vessels that may be used to supply the armed forces with fuel
during times of armed conflict or national emergency.
Question 1. The Tanker Security Program and Maritime Security
Program play a key role in maintaining our sealift capability and
supporting the U.S.-flag fleet. From your perspective, does the
Department of Defense provide enough cargo to keep the Tanker Security
Program commercially viable? How would you manage or expand preference
cargoes to strengthen participation?
Answer. If I am confirmed, I look forward to working with DOW on
this important issue and getting read up on the specifics. Interagency
collaboration is imperative and I look forward to working with your
office on this issue.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Dan Sullivan to
Stephen M. Carmel
Port Infrastructure Development Program and Visit Alaska
Alaska's unique geography and lack of transportation infrastructure
means that my constituents rely on maritime transportation as a
lifeline.
Alaska has 33,904 miles of shoreline, dwarfing the entire Lower 48.
A majority of Alaskan communities are dependent on barge deliveries for
food, building materials, and everyday household goods necessary to
support life in the 21st Century. In many parts of the state, these
deliveries occur only two or three times per year. However, even today,
many of our communities lack reliable marine access.
One of the biggest infrastructure gaps in the State of Alaska, in
terms of lack of support for Federal support mechanisms, is the lack of
a waterfront program to support our rural communities.
Through previous efforts with the Commerce Committee and the
Infrastructure bill, we have made significant progress in supporting
these communities and projects through the MARAD Port Infrastructure
Development program.
Question 1. Will you commit to strong support for the Port
Infrastructure Development program?
Answer. If confirmed, I can commit to working with your office to
continue to follow the law, as passed by Congress.
Question 2. Will you commit to ensure that Alaska's port and harbor
projects are evaluated based on their strategic and community
importance?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to evaluating projects based on
their merit and look forward to working directly with your office to
understand Alaska's port and harbor priorities.
Question 3. Will you support efforts to ensure that MARAD adopts
permit streamlining practices to avoid duplicative environmental
reviews that delay critical maritime infrastructure projects?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to working to ensure timely reviews
of maritime infrastructure projects wherever possible.
Port of Alaska Modernization Program (PAMP)--Project Background and
Status Background
The Port of Alaska handles nearly half of all cargo entering the
state and is a designated Defense Strategic Port, making it essential
for both civilian supply chains and national security. Aging
infrastructure--over 50 years old--is at risk of catastrophic failure,
especially in the event of a major earthquake. The docks are heavily
corroded and beyond their design life.
The Port of Alaska Modernization Program (PAMP) is a five-phase
reconstruction effort focused on replacing, not expanding,
infrastructure to ensure long-term resilience and efficiency.
Modernization will strengthen seismic resilience, accommodate larger,
deeper-draft vessels, and bring facilities up to current codes and
standards--all while supporting Alaska's economy and military
readiness.
Timely Federal action is critical. MARAD's support in streamlining
reviews, accelerating permitting, and facilitating funding will be key
to keeping this lifeline operational for decades to come. Delays risk
severe consequences for Alaska's supply chain and national defense
capacity. This is not just a state issue--it's a strategic national
priority.
Question 1. Given MARAD's central role in reviewing and funding
port infrastructure projects, would you ensure the Port of Alaska
Modernization Program stays on schedule and receives the Federal
priority it deserves, considering the risks to both Alaska's supply
chain and national defense readiness if this project is delayed?
Answer. I commit to working with you and your office to ensure that
programs such as the Port of Alaska modernization program are executed
in a timely and efficient manner.
University of Alaska--Centers of Excellence for Domestic Maritime
Workforce Training and Education
As part of the FY2023 MARAD Authorization (that became law via FY23
NDAA) I worked to authorize the Maritime Administration to designate
eligible organizations as centers of excellence for domestic maritime
workforce training and education, and authorized funding to support
maritime workforce development activities at designated centers of
excellence.
While I'm pleased that the Maritime Administration has taken the
steps to designate centers, including the Alaska Maritime Education
Consortium, there has been no funding to ultimately address maritime
workforce challenges.
Question 1. Will you commit to working to see that appropriate
funding is requested in the President's Budget so the United States can
increase its efforts to train the next generation of maritime
professionals?
Answer. I can commit to working with your office to continue to
follow the law, as passed by Congress.
Missile Defense Agency Vessel Recapitalization
Given the immediate national security and operational risks posed
by the impending decommissioning of the Missile Defense Agency's
telemetry ships, I urge MARAD to act swiftly under its existing
contractual authorities and issue the necessary Task Orders/Delivery
Orders under the current Vessel Construction Manager contract. While I
understand the process is underway, the timeline remains extremely
tight.
Question 1. Will you commit upon confirmation to issue the TO/DOs
to initiate vessel design? If any administrative or procedural barriers
remain, please identify those issues along with a corrective action
plan and timeline that aligns with Congress's intent for immediate
recapitalization.
Answer. I can commit to working with your office to continue to
follow the law, as passed by Congress.
Wrangell RAISE Grant Coordination
The City and Borough of Wrangell have been working closely with the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and MARAD on a project of high
importance to my state--specifically, the replacement of deteriorating
float infrastructure in Wrangell Harbor, which is linked to long-
standing dredging needs in the federally authorized navigation basin.
It has been reported to my office that while NEPA concerns for the
float replacement portion have been addressed through coordination with
the USACE Regulatory Division and the Borough, NEPA requirements
associated with the USACE-led dredging effort remain unresolved. I
understand that MARAD is serving as the lead Federal agency for NEPA on
this project and is conducting an Environmental Assessment (EA) rather
than an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which should allow for a
more streamlined process.
The current holdup, as conveyed to me, is that USACE has yet to
submit a required sampling work plan for review under MARAD's pre-NEPA
process. Until this work plan is approved, in-water sediment sampling
cannot occur--delaying essential technical and environmental analyses.
MARAD reportedly provided guidance for this work plan as early as May
2025, but USACE has cited staffing shortages and operational delays as
the reason for their lack of progress.
Because the dredging and float replacement are interdependent
efforts, and because the Borough cannot finalize its RAISE grant
agreement with MARAD until NEPA is completed for both, this delay
threatens to stall a key infrastructure project in my state. I
understand that once the USACE work plan is received, MARAD's internal
review could move quickly. I appreciate MARAD's responsiveness on that
front.
In light of these circumstances, I respectfully urge MARAD to
prioritize this project and take all possible steps to expedite its
part in the NEPA process once the necessary materials are provided by
USACE. This project is important to the local economy, to maritime
safety, and to honoring the commitments made under the RAISE program.
Question 1. Once confirmed, will you commit to this project and
your coordination with the Borough and USACE?
Answer. If I receive the honor of confirmation, I can commit to
working to understanding the specifics of MARADs role in this project
and to expeditiously review the issue.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Maria Cantwell to
Stephen M. Carmel
Shipbuilding. There is bipartisan agreement that it is critical we
increase American-built and American-crewed ships to support our
economy, increase international trade, and strengthen our national
security. This includes investments in shipyard and port
infrastructure, expanding financial tools needed to incentivize
shipbuilding and shipyard modernization, and investing in our maritime
workforce.
Question 1. Please describe your plan to invest in port
infrastructure and increase U.S. shipbuilding capacity.
Answer. I fully agree that rebuilding our shipbuilding ecosystem is
critical--not only for national security, but also for addressing
broader economic issues such as freight rate wedges and supply chain
resilience.
I plan to attract private capital and gradually reduce the need for
government involvement with the ultimate objective of reestablishing
shipbuilding as a self-sustaining, commercially competitive industry.
By restoring competitiveness and scale in the private sector, we can
both strengthen our industrial base and ensure that the maritime and
logistics sectors contribute fully to U.S. economic and national
security objectives.
Question 2. How do you plan to use programs like the Title XI loan
guarantee program or new financing mechanisms to spur commercial
shipbuilding in the United States?
Answer. A critical component of rebuilding our shipbuilding
ecosystem is fixing the financing side of the equation. The current
Title XI program is inadequate to the task--it doesn't provide true
construction financing or refund guarantees, both of which are
essential to support modern shipbuilding at competitive cost and risk
levels. There are several adjustments to the Title XI program that can
address these shortcomings and aligns financing mechanisms with the
broader goal of moving U.S. shipbuilding down the cost curve and
attracting private capital participation.
Question 3. Do you commit to working with Congress on legislation
to grow the U.S. shipbuilding capacity and the maritime industrial
base?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to working with Congress on
implementing any legislation it passes effectively and efficiently.
Mariner Workforce. A key aspect of the Maritime Administration's
(MARAD) mission is to train and educate our next generation of U.S.
mariners. However, the United States has a serious shortage of
credentialed mariners, and in 2024, both the USTRANSCOM Commander and
the former MARAD Administrator testified regarding their concerns about
the mariner shortage.
Question 1. What specific steps will you take to address our
Nation's shortage of mariners?
Answer. The mariner shortage we're seeing isn't simply about
headcount--it's a structural problem. A major factor is the Ready
Reserve Force (RRF) model, which depends on sudden surges in manpower.
When RRF activation stresses the labor pool, it shows the system is
unbalanced: if we can surge the RRF, we have too many mariners for
normal operations; if we can't, the model isn't sustainable.
To fix this, I'd start by working closely with our union partners
to realign how we develop and sustain the workforce. We must build
mariner employment in tandem with new ship construction and operations,
so people have steady jobs, not just surge demand. This means
integrating workforce planning with programs like fleet
recapitalization and sealift renewal.
We also need to modernize mariner training and credentialing--for
example, expanding simulation-based training, easing transitions for
military and offshore energy mariners into deep-sea service, and
strengthening the pipeline through the state maritime academies.
Lastly, we need to work closely with the USCG to bring the mariner
credentialing system into the 21st century, a frustration I hear often
from our mariners.
If we get those structural and workforce elements right, we won't
just patch a temporary shortage--we'll rebuild a strong, steady U.S.
mariner base that supports both national security and commercial
competitiveness.
Question 2. What are your plans to improve the conditions at the
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy to include aging infrastructure and
outdated curriculum?
Answer. There are already important programs underway to address
this issue, including the campus modernization plan, which I am fully
committed to supporting. Once confirmed, my first step will be to
conduct a detailed review of what MARAD is currently doing or planning
in this area, ensuring that ongoing efforts are effective and properly
aligned with our broader mission. The Committee will be informed as we
work collaboratively to identify any gaps or needed improvements.
As an Academy alumnus, I am deeply concerned about the state of our
maritime education system. I am committed to working aggressively--in
partnership with Congress and all stakeholders--to ensure these
programs deliver the modern facilities, training, and support our
future mariners deserve.
Sexual Misconduct. When a USMMA cadet, known as Midshipman-X, came
forward in 2021 alleging she was raped on a Maersk ship, I wrote to
MARAD. We went on to include specific provisions in the 2023 NDAA to
prevent sexual assault and sexual harassment while at sea. Sexual
misconduct is a crime, and we have to protect both our current and
future mariners.
Question 1. Will you prioritize mitigating sexual misconduct in the
maritime industry if confirmed as MARAD Administrator?
Answer. My time as a ship's captain, where I sailed with female
crew members, provided me with direct, practical experience in managing
crew welfare, particularly concerning safety and professional conduct.
This experience gave me firsthand insight into the specific logistical
and cultural adjustments necessary to ensure a safe, respectful, and
fully compliant working environment for all personnel. This includes
implementing and strictly enforcing policies to prevent and promptly
address sexual misconduct and harassment.
This isn't just a policy issue; it's about culture. Every mariner
deserves to know they'll be safe and respected at sea, and I'll make
that a top priority. As I said at my hearing, this is a simple issue at
its core: treating each other with respect and not tolerating those who
don't.
Question 2. During your staff interview, you said you were not
personally involved in Maersk's handling of the matter involving
Midshipman-X or a subsequent matter involving Midshipman-Y. Is that
correct?
Answer. Yes. By the time this occurred, the internal division
within MLL had already taken place, and I was running the USMMI
business unit, not directly involved in ``Blue Fleet'' operations.
Question 3. Have you ever discouraged Maersk, or any other entity
with which you were employed, from reporting an allegation of sexual
harassment or assault under 46 U.S.C. Sec. 10104?
Answer. No.
Question 4. What specific measures would you put into place to
mitigate sexual misconduct throughout the maritime industry if
confirmed?
Answer. This is an issue I take very seriously. As a Master, I've
sailed with mixed crews, including female officers and mariners, and I
know firsthand that safety and respect must be built into the ship's
culture from day one.
If confirmed, I'd bring that same culture to MARAD--ensuring strong
reporting systems, real accountability, and consistent enforcement
across the industry. I'd also work closely with unions, the Coast
Guard, academies, and operators to share best practices and strengthen
prevention training.
This isn't just a policy issue; it's about culture. Every mariner
deserves to know they'll be safe and respected at sea, and I'll make
that a top priority. As I said at my hearing, this is a simple issue at
its core: treating each other with respect and not tolerating those who
don't.
Question 5. At the hearing, you said Kings Point has a ``long way
to go'' in terms of dealing with sexual misconduct. Please elaborate on
this testimony, including by explaining why you believe this and what
specific actions you will pursue at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy to
protect our future mariners if confirmed.
Answer. Thank you for the question and the opportunity to expand on
my initial answer. When I said Kings Point has a long way to go, I was
referring to all aspects of its operations, not just issues related to
SASH (Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment). My direct experience with
the Academy is somewhat dated, so if confirmed, I intend to take a
fresh, detailed look at the current situation before drawing firm
conclusions.
Question 6. Were you aware of any instances of sexual harassment or
sexual assault at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy while serving on the
Board of Directors that you believe were not properly reported or
investigated? If so, please detail these matters.
Answer. I am not aware of any such instances.
Tariffs. In 2022, you gave a speech stating that ``every firm in
every country in the supply chain'' feels the pain of tariffs, and that
politicians ``enacting tariffs actually have no idea who and where they
are causing pain.''
Question 1. If confirmed, how do you intend to use your role as
MARAD Administrator to help address the ``pain'' from the current
tariffs?
Answer. The MARAD Administrator does not hold the primary authority
to set or impose tariffs; this power rests mainly with the President
(via the USTR) and Congress MARAD's role is not tariff setting and is
not a primary function of the role of which I am nominated for.
Surface Transportation Reauthorization. The Bipartisan
Infrastructure Law provided $2.25 billion for the Port Infrastructure
Development Grant Program, among other investments. The Surface
Transportation Reauthorization bill would be an excellent opportunity
to secure funding and provisions to support the industry.
Question 1. Do you think maritime issues should be part of the next
Surface Transportation Reauthorization?
Answer. If confirmed, I look forward to working proactively with
your office on priorities pertinent to MARAD, at any point and under
the direction of Congress.
Food Aid. Food aid is one of the largest sources of cargo
guaranteed to U.S. flag ships, and the Administration's dismantling of
USAID has had major implications on the fleet. In Fiscal Year 2024, the
USAID's Title II Food for Peace program ordered about 606,301 metric
tons of food aid, and as of July 29 of Fiscal Year 2025, only 259,000
metric tons have been ordered.
Question 1. How does the cancellation of food aid impact the U.S.
Merchant Marine, and do you have solutions?
Answer. The rebuilding of our maritime enterprise must be rooted in
carrying the Nation's commerce. A strong U.S. Merchant Marine must once
again be central to how America moves its goods, competes globally, and
secures its supply chains.
That commitment is essential to our economic strength and directly
supports MARAD's mission. It is also the only viable path to developing
the cargo base we need, at the scale required to accomplish the overall
goal of revitalizing and rebuilding the domestic U.S. maritime industry
and workforce.
Question 2. What are the consequences of the fleet not having
enough cargo?
Answer. Maritime shipping is a business, and the movement of cargo
is our service. As in any business, when demand for our services drops,
the business becomes unviable and fails. This is also true for the
industry writ large: it will fail or become wholly dependent on
government support.
Port Infrastructure Development Program. In August 2025, MARAD
withdrew six projects and terminated five projects within its Port
Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP), resulting in a total
retraction of $177 million and approximately $75 million in Federal
funding, respectively.
Question 1. Do you support the Port Infrastructure Development
Program?
Answer. If confirmed, I can commit to working with your office to
continue to follow the law, as passed by Congress.
Question 2. Regardless of your current familiarity with PIDP, will
you commit to protecting the grants in this program from politicized
termination?
Answer. I am committed to ensuring that every dollar provided under
the PIDP is awarded and administered based on merit, transparency, and
statutory criteria. My focus will be on maintaining the program's
integrity and ensuring that projects are selected and executed to
deliver the maximum public benefit consistent with law and
Administration priorities.
Logging System. The United States lacks a modern cargo tracking
system that could help the maritime industry address supply chain
issues.
Question 1. How could the United States implement a modern logging
system for maritime cargo?
Answer. I fully agree that developing a modern, integrated cargo
visibility system is a critical national priority.
At present, U.S. ports and supply chain nodes operate largely as
islands of information, without a unified national operating picture of
cargo movement. This severely limits our ability to anticipate and
respond to disruptions, optimize logistics performance, and protect
against data-driven vulnerabilities.
This urgency is underscored by competitors like China. Its Logink
system provides real-time access to global trade flow data and is
utilized at ports they operate globally, giving them significant
leverage in understanding--and potentially influencing--supply chain
dynamics. The United States lacks a comparable system, and that gap
poses both economic and security risks.
The solution is not necessarily new data collection, but
integration. We must create a secure, interoperable, and trusted data
architecture that connects existing information from ports, carriers,
terminals, and Federal systems.
Such a framework would dramatically improve supply chain
transparency, resilience, and cybersecurity while securely protecting
proprietary and national security-sensitive data.
MARAD can play a key convening and technical role in this effort.
Its functions should include aligning standards, engaging stakeholders
across the public and private sectors, and ensuring the resulting
system supports both commercial competitiveness and national security
objectives consistent with Administration priorities.
Trade Agreements. International trade agreements offer an
opportunity to negotiate and secure cargo on U.S. flag vessels, and
consulting MARAD during this process would be advantageous for the U.S.
maritime industry.
Question 1. What do you think are the potential opportunities
surrounding maritime cargo in international trade negotiations to
support the U.S. maritime industry?
Answer. I completely agree--the rebuilding of our maritime
enterprise must be rooted in carrying the Nation's commerce. A strong
U.S. Merchant Marine must once again be central to how America moves
its goods, competes globally, and secures its supply chains.
That commitment is essential to our economic strength and directly
supports MARAD's mission. It is also the only viable path to developing
the cargo base we need, at the scale required to accomplish the vision
set forth by President Trump in his Restoring America's Maritime
Dominance Executive Order.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Edward Markey to
Stephen M. Carmel
Question 1. I authored the No Spills Act to strengthen the review
process that the Maritime Administration uses to approve offshore
fossil fuel terminals and increase penalties on corporations whose
operations result in oil spills. Do you believe it is important to take
public opinion into account when considering license applications for
new offshore export terminals?
A. Do you believe the maintenance of a healthy environment is in
our national interest?
Answer. Public input is an essential part of the review process for
offshore terminal projects. The Maritime Administration's licensing
process under the Deepwater Port Act is designed to be transparent and
inclusive, ensuring that local communities, environmental stakeholders,
and industry all have a voice. That public participation strengthens
the legitimacy and quality of our decisions.
As Administrator, my commitment would be to ensure that every
application is reviewed rigorously, based on science, safety, and law--
and that the process reflects both environmental responsibility and the
national interest in a secure, efficient energy and trade system.
Question 2. As a former tanker captain, you're well aware that fuel
efficiency is a key to profitability. Do you support the Maritime
Environmental and Technical Assistance program, which helps shipping
companies cut fuel costs and compete in the global economy?
A. Would you protect this program from funding cuts or
politicization?
Answer. As a former tanker captain and shipping executive, I know
fuel efficiency is central to profitability and competitiveness. If
confirmed, I commit to awarding and administering programs based on
merit, transparency, and statutory criteria. My focus will be on
maintaining the program's integrity and ensuring that projects are
selected and executed to deliver the maximum public benefit consistent
with law and Administration priorities.
Question 3. Greener ships are the worldwide trend, and many nations
are looking to adopt standards for ships they will allow to dock at
their ports. As we look to expand the number of American-flagged ships
carrying goods, do you agree that lower-emission ships will be a
necessary part of that mission?
Answer. MARAD's job is to enable our U.S. carriers through
providing tools and technical support to stay competitive in global
trade. If confirmed, I will work to that end.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Baldwin to
Stephen M. Carmel
Question 1. As Maritime Administrator, you would be charged with
administering the Small Shipyard Grant Program, which provides crucial
support for a key component of America's maritime industrial base.
Small shipyards are often the lifeblood of coastal communities,
supporting commercial fishing fleets, tugs and barges, ferries, dredges
and government ships like Coast Guard cutters, firefighting and law
enforcement boats. Will you commit to including adequate resources for
the Small Shipyard Grant Program in your future budget requests?
Answer. If confirmed, I will commit to award and administer
programs under MARAD's purview based on merit, transparency, and
statutory criteria.
Question 2. In September 2023, the Department of Transportation
published a waiver of Buy America requirements for de minimis costs and
small grants. Despite the Department's waiver, will you commit to
requiring all Small Shipyard Grant recipients, even those awarded less
than $500,000 in Small Shipyard Grant funds, to comply with the
domestic preference requirements for their projects?
Answer. If confirmed, I look forward to working with your office on
this issue and commit to furthering my understanding of this particular
matter.
Question 3. MARAD is tasked with fostering, promoting and
developing the maritime industry of the United States to meet the
Nation's economic and security needs. This includes efforts to support
commercial shipbuilding in the United States, including through the
Title XI Loan Guarantee Program, Small Shipyard Grant Program, and Port
Infrastructure Development Program. In a time where it is increasingly
obvious that the United States must strengthen our commercial
shipbuilding industry, what will you do as Maritime Administrator to
ensure our Nation can surge this capacity?
Answer. I agree that strengthening our commercial shipbuilding
industry is essential to both our economic and national security.
The reality is this capability cannot be ``surged'' in a crisis.
Shipbuilding capacity, workforce skills, and supplier networks must be
built and sustained consistently over time. If we want that capability
in an emergency, we must foster and develop it in peacetime.
As Maritime Administrator, should I be given the honor of
confirmation, my focus would be on creating the conditions for that
long-term stability. I would use tools like a reimagined and
strengthened Title XI Program--representing construction financing, not
just loan guarantees--the Small Shipyard Grant Program, and the Port
Infrastructure Development Program to rebuild capacity across the
industrial base.
That means helping U.S. yards move down the cost curve, invest in
modern technology, and compete in international markets so that steady
commercial work sustains them between defense cycles.
Rebuilding this capacity isn't just about production; it's about
restoring a maritime ecosystem: shipyards, suppliers, mariners, and
carriers all working together. That is how we will ensure the United
States can respond when needed--not by surging from a cold start, but
by maintaining a living, capable industry every day.
Question 4. In the 2023 Port Infrastructure Development Program
(PIDP) award cycle, DOT announced $653 million to 41 ports, of which
only two Great Lakes ports received grants. Ports in the Great Lakes
region only received two percent of the distributed funds. I am
concerned that applicants from the Great Lakes are not being fairly
considered for PIDP awards, despite the critical need for investment.
Do you commit to considering regional distribution of PIDP funds when
awarding grants?
Answer. If confirmed, I will commit to award and administer
programs under MARADs purview based on merit, transparency, and
statutory criteria.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
Stephen M. Carmel
Auxiliary Shipbuilding
TRANSCOM's number one unfunded priority for Fiscal Year 2026 was
sealift capacity, both into a theater as well as within a theater, and
the Maritime Administration (MARAD) has a huge role to play in enabling
the military in a wartime scenario.
Question 1. Please provide your assessment of the current capacity
of the United States Government to enable commercial or military
shipyards in the United States to surge production of lift/auxiliary
vessels in a wartime scenario to maintain fleet capacity necessary to
support the military's needs?
Answer. My assessment is straightforward: the United States today
does not have the near-term ability to ``surge'' large-scale commercial
or military shipbuilding and repair from a cold start to meet wartime
lift/auxiliary needs. True surge capacity must be resident in the force
in peacetime--yards, suppliers, skilled crews, material pipelines, and
contract mechanisms--and much of that ecosystem is currently thin or in
need of rebuilding. You cannot surge what you have not sustained. There
are many reasons for this conclusion, but key reasons are:
Industrial base shrinkage--there are relatively few U.S.
shipyards with the scale, military-spec experience, and modern
production facilities needed for rapid, high-volume output of
lift/auxiliary vessels.
Workforce shortfalls--skilled shipbuilders, naval
architects, welders, and supervisors are limited; training and
apprenticeship pipelines are inadequate for a fast expansion.
Fragile supplier chain--many critical components (engines,
generators, specialist steel, reduction gears, certain
electronics) have long lead times and limited domestic
producers.
Production rhythm--shipbuilding depends on steady workloads;
yards cut costs and maintain capacity by doing continuous
commercial and defense work, not by waiting for crises.
Question 2. Many of the United States' partners have strong
domestic industries dedicated to commercial shipbuilding and building
of specialized auxiliary vessels, such as cable-laying or cable-repair
ships or landing craft utility vessels.
If confirmed to be MARAD Administrator, would you support greater
co-production and co-sustainment of auxiliaries with allies and
partners to expand capacity and reduce risk--and what barriers exist to
achieving this goal?
Answer. If confirmed, I would support actively working through
these barriers--aligning standards, identifying pilot opportunities,
and ensuring that cooperation with allies complements our national
industrial goals. The objective is not to replace U.S. capability, but
to expand and reinforce it through trusted partnerships.
I strongly support the idea of greater co-production and co-
sustainment of auxiliary vessels with our allies and partners. This is
a strategic way to expand capacity, reduce risk, and strengthen the
resilience of our collective maritime industrial base.
Question 3. If confirmed to be MARAD Administrator, what is your
plan to address the aging fleet and address significant maintenance
issues plaguing the fleet?
Answer. I plan to attract private capital and gradually reduce the
need for government involvement with the ultimate objective of
reestablishing shipbuilding as a self-sustaining, commercially
competitive industry. By restoring competitiveness and scale in the
private sector, we can both strengthen our industrial base and ensure
that the maritime and logistics sectors contribute fully to U.S.
economic and national security objectives.
Question 4. What is your assessment of the Vessel Construction
Manager program, and if confirmed to be MARAD Administrator, will you
expand this program?
Answer. My assessment is that the Vessel Construction Manager (VCM)
program has been a clear success. It has improved cost control,
schedule discipline, and technical oversight in complex shipbuilding
projects. Its strong reputation has led other agencies, including the
Army and NAVSEA, to explore similar models.
Expanding the VCM, however, is not something MARAD can do
unilaterally, since most applicable ship construction programs
originate outside of our agency. That said, we can absolutely play a
key assistance role: sharing best practices, supporting other agencies
that want to adopt the model, and using the VCM ourselves whenever it
is appropriate and within our authority.
Grants
The Port Infrastructure Grant Program is crucial to keeping the
important flow of commerce moving smoothly through the maritime
environment.
In 2024, Illinois received $82M in much needed funding to address
infrastructure projects. However, in prior years, the Great Lakes
community received a disproportionality small share of Port
Infrastructure Grant Program funds that amounted to less than 3 percent
of the total funding amount.
Question 1. If confirmed to be Administrator, will you commit to
building on this progress to make sure Port Infrastructure Grant
Program funds are effectively distributed to Illinois projects and
other non-coastal communities?
Answer. I agree that ports in Illinois and across the Great Lakes
are essential to our national economy. They move the raw materials and
finished goods that keep American industry running, so continued
investment there is critical. If confirmed, I look forward to working
with your office on this issue and commit to furthering my
understanding of this particular matter.
Question 2. If confirmed, will you commit to disbursing all grant
funding that has been awarded to Illinois in full and without undue
delay, while opposing any efforts by the Office of Management and
Budget or other entities to improperly abuse grant program disbursement
to reward or punish perceived political allies or enemies?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to awarding and administering
programs based on merit, transparency, and statutory criteria. My focus
will be on maintaining the program's integrity and ensuring that
projects are selected and executed to deliver the maximum public
benefit consistent with law and Administration priorities.
Federal Elections
Question 1. Setting aside the Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Donald Trump received more
votes than Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. presidential
election?
Answer. Senator, with great respect, I do not believe it would be
appropriate for me to offer any personal views or opinions on electoral
matters.
My responsibility as Maritime Administrator, if confirmed, would be
to carry out the duties of the office with integrity, impartiality, and
full respect for the law and for all those elected to serve.
Personal political opinions have no bearing on that responsibility.
I will ensure, for my part, that I conduct myself in a way that
reflects the nonpartisan trust placed in this position at all times.
Question 2. Setting aside the official Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Joe Biden received more votes
than President Donald Trump in the 2020 U.S. presidential election?
Answer. Senator, with great respect, I do not believe it would be
appropriate for me to offer any personal views or opinions on electoral
matters.
My responsibility as Maritime Administrator, if confirmed, would be
to carry out the duties of the office with integrity, impartiality, and
full respect for the law and for all those elected to serve.
Personal political opinions have no bearing on that responsibility.
I will ensure, for my part, that I conduct myself in a way that
reflects the nonpartisan trust placed in this position at all times.
______
Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Dan Sullivan to
Laura DiBella
Federal Maritime Commission Investigation Into Transit Constraints at
International Maritime Chokepoints
Background: On March 14th of this year, The U.S. Federal Maritime
Commission (FMC) noticed an investigation into global maritime
chokepoints, including Russia's Northern Sea Route (NSR), reflecting
its growing significance in international shipping.
As Arctic sea ice diminishes, the NSR offers a shorter and more
fuel-efficient route between Europe and Asia, presenting potential
commercial and strategic opportunities for U.S. maritime interests. The
opening of the NSR has generated governance disputes. Russia asserts
control over the route and imposes fees on transiting vessels, while
other nations advocate for freedom of navigation and international
access.
The NSR's strategic importance is underscored by increased Russian
and Chinese military activities, including joint Arctic patrols,
construction of new bases, and expansion of icebreaker fleets. These
developments reflect the route's relevance to nuclear deterrence,
missile defense, and broader Arctic security. The FMC's investigation,
which also examines chokepoints such as the Suez and Panama Canals,
highlighting heightened U.S. interest in Arctic maritime policy and
security.
FMC oversight and policy decisions regarding the NSR will have
implications for Alaska's ports, Arctic shipping supply chains, and
national defense readiness. Understanding the commercial, legal, and
strategic dynamics of the NSR is essential to ensure that U.S. maritime
infrastructure and Arctic operations are both competitive and secure,
while maintaining compliance with international maritime law.
Question 1. (Focused on Arctic Access): Given the growing
accessibility of Arctic waters, how would you, as an FMC Commissioner,
ensure that U.S. maritime policy protects Alaska's ports and Arctic
supply chains--while balancing international navigation rights,
national security interests, and the commercial opportunities presented
by new Arctic shipping routes?
Answer. If I am confirmed as an FMC Commissioner, I will ensure a
competitive and reliable international ocean transportation system that
supports the U.S. economy, protects Alaskan interests, and aligns with
broader national security and international policy objectives. Ways in
which I would go about this would involve leveraging the FMC's economic
regulatory authority, closely monitoring shipping rates, surcharges,
and service contracts for vessels using Arctic routes to and from U.S.
ports, particularly those in Alaska. This will ensure that U.S.
shippers are not subject to unjust and unreasonable charges or unfair
practices as commercial activity increases. As a member of the U.S.
Committee on the Marine Transportation System (CMTS), I would advocate
for the robust development of a detailed maritime transportation and
infrastructure strategy for the U.S. Arctic that includes adequate port
facilities in Alaska to ensure that Alaska's ports remain competitive
amidst the growing needs of the shippers in the Arctic waters. I would
collaborate with and support our Federal partners that have a primary
national security role like the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Maritime
Administration (MARAD), and U.S. Department of War as America's
economic security is a key part of national security. I would also
coordinate with agencies like the USCG, NOAA, and the Department of
Homeland Security (DHS) to support their efforts in charting unmapped
waters, developing port access routes, and ensuring safe navigation. I
would ensure that any FMC initiatives are developed in consultation
with state, regional, and tribal representatives, as well as the
National Shipper Advisory Committee (NSAC), to ensure local
communities' needs and concerns are considered in the development of
new shipping routes and port operations. I would ensure all FMC actions
are consistent with U.S. foreign policy and international law,
including the principle of freedom of navigation and the ``Arctic
exception'' under UNCLOS Article 234, which grants coastal states
authority to enforce pollution control laws in ice-covered areas. I
would use the FMC's authority to conduct investigations into transit
constraints at international maritime chokepoints, including potential
Arctic routes, to gather data on shipping conditions and inform policy
decisions. And finally, I would promote transparency in the industry by
ensuring all tariffs and charges related to new Arctic routes are
publicly available and clear, allowing the market to function
efficiently and fairly.
Question 2. (Competition and Sovereignty in the Arctic): As Arctic
shipping lanes, particularly the Northern Sea Route, become more
active, how would you help safeguard U.S. competitiveness--especially
for Alaska's strategic ports--in the face of foreign control,
navigation fees, and evolving international claims, while ensuring
alignment with international maritime law and national security
priorities?
Answer. If I am confirmed as an FMC Commissioner, I would safeguard
U.S. competitiveness in the Arctic with a multi-faceted approach that
would combine diplomatic and persistent military presence, along with
robust, dual-use infrastructure development and investment (to include
icebreaker fleet expansion), regulatory measures, international
cooperation, and strategic messaging to ensure the U.S. and Alaska
remain competitive and secure in the evolving Arctic landscape.
Asserting international law principles through operational presence,
enhanced military presence, and strengthening partnerships with allies
and local communities will address foreign control, i.e., Russia's
attempts to control the Northern Sea Route (NSR), navigation fees, and
evolving international claims while aligning with maritime law and
national security priorities. And incentivizing routes that align with
U.S. priorities will improve the safety and efficiency of U.S.
shipping, reducing reliance on foreign-controlled passages.
Question 3. (Supply Chain and National Security): Alaska's ports
are critical to the state's economy and serve as key national defense
assets. How would you work with Federal partners, including the Coast
Guard and Department of Defense, to ensure Alaska's maritime supply
chains remain resilient and secure as Arctic maritime traffic
increases?
Answer. If I am confirmed as an FMC Commissioner, I would
collaborate with and support our Federal partners that have a primary
national security role like the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Maritime
Administration (MARAD), and U.S Department of War as America's economic
security is a key part of national security. I would also coordinate
with agencies like the USCG, NOAA, and the Department of Homeland
Security (DHS) to support their efforts in charting unmapped waters,
developing port access routes, and ensuring safe navigation. As
previously mentioned, I will ensure a competitive and reliable
international ocean transportation system that supports the U.S.
economy, protects Alaskan interests, and aligns with broader national
security and international policy objectives. Ways in which I would go
about this would involve leveraging the FMC's economic regulatory
authority, closely monitoring shipping rates, surcharges, and service
contracts for vessels using Arctic routes to and from U.S. ports,
particularly those in Alaska. This will ensure that U.S. shippers are
not subject to unjust and unreasonable charges or unfair practices as
commercial activity increases. As a member of the U.S. Committee on the
Marine Transportation System (CMTS), I would advocate for the robust
development of a detailed maritime transportation and infrastructure
strategy for the U.S. Arctic that includes adequate port facilities in
Alaska to ensure that Alaska's ports remain competitive amidst the
growing needs of the shippers in the Arctic waters. I would ensure that
any FMC initiatives are developed in consultation with state, regional,
and tribal representatives, as well as the National Shipper Advisory
Committee (NSAC), to ensure local communities' needs and concerns are
considered in the development of new shipping routes and port
operations. I would ensure all FMC actions are consistent with U.S.
foreign policy and international law, including the principle of
freedom of navigation and the ``Arctic exception'' under UNCLOS Article
234, which grants coastal states authority to enforce pollution control
laws in ice-covered areas. I would use the FMC's authority to conduct
investigations into transit constraints at international maritime
chokepoints, including potential Arctic routes, to gather data on
shipping conditions and inform policy decisions. And finally, I would
promote transparency in the industry by ensuring all tariffs and
charges related to new Arctic routes are publicly available and clear,
allowing the market to function efficiently and fairly.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Marsha Blackburn to
Laura DiBella
Question 1. As an FMC Commissioner, can you commit to implementing
the FMC's authorities as written by Congress and holding true to the
Commission's foundational principles, which focus on being a
nondiscriminatory regulator for the common carriage of goods in the
foreign commerce of the United States?
Answer. Yes, I can.
Question 2. Freight forwarders and other Ocean Transport
Intermediaries fill a crucial role in the American supply chain by
helping American small, medium and large businesses efficiently move
cargo via ocean. How do you view the FMC's role in empowering these
Ocean Transport intermediaries to help American small and medium
business compete?
Answer. The FMC's role is to foster a fair, competitive, and
transparent marketplace, providing oversight and consumer protection,
and offering dispute resolution services. This helps build trust and
integrity in the U.S. supply chain by creating a more level playing
field for large and small shippers alike giving them better access to
services at competitive rates. The FMC helps ensure that businesses of
all sizes, through their freight forwarders and Ocean Transport
Intermediaries, can navigate the complexities of international ocean
shipping with greater confidence and fewer barriers, allowing them to
compete more effectively in the global marketplace.
Question 3. There are many parties in ocean transportation that are
essential to a well-run national economy. Shippers, Consignees, Freight
forwarders/OTIs, and the carriers themselves as well as custom-house
brokers. If your nomination proceeds, would you support outreach to and
listening to feedback from the industry to enhance compliance with
existing regulations and to improve the competitiveness of American
small and medium businesses?
Answer. Yes, industry feedback and participation are critical to
improving the competitiveness of American small and medium sized
businesses.
______
Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Ted Budd to
Laura DiBella
Question 1. The FMC currently has a case before it involving
intermodal chassis that has been going on for over five years. The
Commission's ALJ dismissed the remaining issues in the case nearly a
year ago. Once confirmed, will you commit to promptly looking into this
case and ending the prolonged uncertainty its reaming open has caused?
Answer. Yes, I will.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Maria Cantwell to
Laura DiBella
Jones Act. A long-standing tool to protect the U.S. maritime
industry is the Jones Act, which requires that water-borne cargo
carried between domestic ports must be on U.S. flag, U.S. built, and
U.S. crewed ships. The Jones Act fleet consists of approximately 40,000
vessels, supports 650,000 American family wage jobs, and contributes
more than $150 billion to the national economy annually.
Question 1. Do you support the Jones Act?
Answer. Yes, I do.
Lower Costs for Consumers. In 2022, Congress's Ocean Shipping
Reform Act gave the Commission a shot in the arm providing additional
authorities to go after bad actors, self-initiate investigations, boost
enforcement, and lower costs for American consumers. Since OSRA was
signed into law, we have yet to see the Commission use this power to
increase investigations into bad actors.
Question 1. As a Commissioner, what will you do to drive down costs
for consumers?
Answer. As a Commissioner, I will get to the heart of every matter
that keeps costs high in terms of shipping, seeing through to swift
completion several efforts that are currently under investigation, for
example:
Chokepoint interference keeps shipping costs high because
disruptions to these narrow waterways lead to significant
delays, mandatory rerouting, and increased operational expenses
like fuel and insurance which are ultimately passed down to the
consumer.
Flags of Convenience, although in principle are designed to
keep costs low, have the potential to result in higher overall
risks to the supply chain due to lax oversight, potentially
leading to safety and reliability issues. Reduced oversight
could lead to catastrophic incidents that could compromise the
supply chain and have a disastrous effect on the U.S.
consumer's bottom line.
Stymying the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Net
Zero vote that was recently delayed until 2026 is critical to
driving down costs as the implementation of the Net Zero
Framework will not only increase costs across the board due to
the need to retrofit and accommodate new fuel types on vessels,
it also greatly benefits China's shipbuilding capacity as they
dominate the market. It is a win-win for them and lose-lose for
basically everyone else.
Question 2. Will you support efforts to increase investigations by
the Commission?
Answer. Yes, I will.
Question 3. How will you address cargo diversion to ensure that
American ports will continue to be a preferred customer?
Answer. Addressing the Harbor Maintenance Tax loophole along with
cargo preference laws (i.e., Jones Act, American Cargo for American
Ships Act) would combat this immediately. In tandem with this, a
combination of robust infrastructure investment and enhancements
throughout the system (which is how we need to view this) would ensure
supply chain visibility and better collaboration with all involved to
help develop contingency plans in the face of disruptions.
Independent Agencies. President Trump has illegally fired over 25
Members from independent Boards and Commissions this year, including at
the FTC, NTSB, CPSC, and STB. Like those agencies, Congress created the
FMC to be independent, and we should all expect its Commissioners to
maintain their independence.
Question 1. Do you believe in the importance of bipartisanship on
independent boards and commissions like the FMC?
Answer. Yes, I do.
Question 2. Yes or No: Will you commit to maintaining the
independence of the FMC as Congress intended, if confirmed?
Answer. Yes, I will.
Question 3. Yes or No: If the President or anyone else in this
Administration threatened to fire you unless you took an action you
disagreed with, would you refuse?
Answer. I do not believe the President would ask me to do so; if
confirmed, I pledge to uphold the law.
Rail Merger/Connections to Ports. Awareness of the broader freight
transportation market is important to performing the role of an FMC
Commissioner.
Question 1. Are you concerned about the effects of consolidation in
the U.S. domestic rail market as it relates to the competitiveness of
our ports and lowering costs of maritime shipping?
Answer. Consolidation of any kind will have impacts, potentially
both good and bad, and, if I am confirmed, I would appreciate hearing
more about the impacts from the industry to ensure that competition
remains high among our ports, along with costs remaining low in
maritime shipping.
Question 2. What information do you think would be helpful to the
Federal Maritime Commission and the Surface Transportation Board to
have from the railroads to better understand the impact of the proposed
merger on our ports and American businesses exporting goods abroad?
Answer. Understanding the type of cargo and ultimate destination of
the cargo is where the conversation must begin as that will outline the
current system in place and then help ascertain how the merger could
rearrange the current supply chain and thus, its impacts on ports and
American exporters.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
Laura DiBella
Federal Elections
Question 1. Setting aside the Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Donald Trump received more
votes than Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. presidential
election?
Answer. Congress certified that Donald Trump won the 2024 election
on January 6, 2025.
Question 2. Setting aside the official Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Joe Biden received more votes
than President Donald Trump in the 2020 U.S. presidential election?
Answer. Congress certified that Joe Biden won the 2020 presidential
election on January 7, 2021.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Marsha Blackburn to
Robert Harvey
Question 1. As an FMC Commissioner, can you commit to implementing
the FMC's authorities as written by Congress and holding true to the
Commission's foundational principles, which focus on being a
nondiscriminatory regulator for the common carriage of goods in the
foreign commerce of the United States?
Answer. Yes.
Question 2. Freight forwarders and other Ocean Transport
Intermediaries fill a crucial role in the American supply chain by
helping American small, medium and large businesses efficiently move
cargo via ocean. How do you view the FMC's role in empowering these
Ocean Transport intermediaries to help American small and medium
business compete?
Answer. To be mindful of the regulatory burdens and cost of
compliance on American small, medium, and large businesses who
efficiently move cargo via ocean, when exercising FMC's regulatory
responsibilities.
Question 3. There are many parties in ocean transportation that are
essential to a well-run national economy. Shippers, Consignees, Freight
forwarders/OTIs, and the carriers themselves as well as custom-house
brokers. If your nomination proceeds, would you support outreach to and
listening to feedback from the industry to enhance compliance with
existing regulations and to improve the competitiveness of American
small and medium businesses?
Answer. Yes.
______
Response to Written Question Submitted by Hon. Ted Budd to
Robert Harvey
Question 1. The FMC currently has a case before it involving
intermodal chassis that has been going on for over five years. The
Commission's ALJ dismissed the remaining issues in the case nearly a
year ago. Once confirmed, will you commit to promptly looking into this
case and ending the prolonged uncertainty its reaming open has caused?
Answer. Yes.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Maria Cantwell to
Robert Harvey
Jones Act
A long-standing tool to protect the U.S. maritime industry is the
Jones Act, which requires that water-borne cargo carried between
domestic ports must be on U.S. flag, U.S. built, and U.S. crewed ships.
The Jones Act fleet consists of approximately 40,000 vessels, supports
650,000 American family wage jobs, and contributes more than $150
billion to the national economy annually.
Question 1. Do you support the Jones Act?
Answer. Yes.
Lower Costs for Consumers
In 2022, Congress's Ocean Shipping Reform Act gave the Commission a
shot in the arm providing additional authorities to go after bad
actors, self-initiate investigations, boost enforcement, and lower
costs for American consumers. Since OSRA was signed into law, we have
yet to see the Commission use this power to increase investigations
into bad actors.
Question 1. As a Commissioner, what will you do to drive down costs
for consumers?
Answer. As stated in my hearing testimony, I support robust
enforcement by the FMC to go after bad actors, self-initiate
investigations, boost enforcement, and lower costs for American
consumers.
Question 2. Will you support efforts to increase investigations by
the Commission?
Answer. Yes.
Question 3. How will you address cargo diversion to ensure that
American ports will continue to be a preferred customer?
Answer. Use FMC's investigation and enforcement authority to reduce
cargo diversion to ensure that American ports will continue to be a
preferred customer.
Independent Agencies
President Trump has illegally fired over 25 Members from
independent Boards and Commissions this year, including at the FTC,
NTSB, CPSC, and STB. Like those agencies, Congress created the FMC to
be independent. And we should all expect its Commissioners to maintain
their independence.
Question 1. Do you believe in the importance of bipartisanship on
independent boards and commissions like the FMC?
Answer. Yes.
Question 2. Yes or No: Will you commit to maintaining the
independence of the FMC as Congress intended, if confirmed?
Answer. Yes.
Question 3. Yes or No: If the President or anyone else in this
Administration threatened to fire you unless you took an action you
disagreed with, would you refuse?
Answer. Yes.
Relevant Experience
Your prior experience as a securities attorney and in business
development does not appear to reflect the background that prior FMC
Commissioner nominees possessed.
Question 1. Do you have any prior maritime experience specifically?
Answer. In terms of prior maritime experience, I state as follows:
First, I served with the United States Navy on active duty and at
Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois. After active duty, I served as a
reservist with Amphibious Group 2, Little Creek, Virginia and U.S.
Naval Forces Europe, London, United Kingdom.
The lesson learned from my time in the Navy is that economic
security and national security are inseparable. U.S. national security
protects our economic assets, including critical infrastructure, supply
chains, port access, and international trade routes, from both
traditional and emerging threats.
Second, as President and Executive Director of the Florida
Opportunity Fund (FOF), I have become familiar with emerging
technologies in the maritime sector. For example, FOF has invested in:
(1) cybersecurity/information technology companies that protect
critical infrastructure; including vessels, ports and marine
infrastructure; (2) companies that fuse real-time data with artificial
intelligence to monitor maritime emissions and improve operational
efficiency, at sea and ashore, and; (3) logistics companies providing
multimodal last-mile delivery solutions, which improve visibility and
reduce shipping time and cost.
Additionally, FOF has begun to review investments in quantum
solutions for the marine industry, enabling potential breakthroughs in
route and fleet optimization, quantum sensing and navigation, secure
quantum communication, and predictive maintenance and environmental
modeling.
Third, my economic development activities have been in a state with
1300 miles of coastline, sixteen public seaports, and seven cruise
ports. That experience has given me an even greater appreciation for
the maritime industry, supply chains, and port access, not only for
Florida but the entire country. Furthermore, in my role as Executive
Director of Florida Development Finance Corporation, I understand the
costs of port modernization for infrastructure projects like ports,
docks, wharves, and related facilities.
Question 2. Detail why the U.S. Senate should be confident you are
prepared for this role.
Answer. I believe my over 35 years of diverse experience in the
military, legal and regulatory affairs, business, investment and
finance, technology, and economic development will allow me to
positively contribute to FMC's vital mission.
Legal Advocacy
As a practicing attorney, you joined two Amici Curiae briefs in the
case of U.S. v. Michael T. Flynn--the first on May 28, 2020, in the DC
District Court, and the second on June 2, 2020, in the DC Circuit Court
of Appeals. The briefs both supported dismissing the Federal case
against Michael T. Flynn, a former Trump National Security Advisor who
had pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI related to his
contacts with Russian Ambassador Sergey Kislyak.
Question 1. What were the circumstances that led to your
involvement with these briefs, including but not limited to when you
first became aware of the first Amici Curiae brief, how you became
aware, and who contacted you about it.
Answer. As I recall, the initial outreach was made to members of
the Republican National Lawyers Association.
Question 2. Which individual(s) or organization(s) led or
coordinated the Amici Curiae?
Answer. Leslie McAdoo Gordon, McAdoo Gordon & Associates, P.C.,
authored both briefs and the coordination was led by the Republican
National Lawyers Association.
Question 3. Why did you decide to join these two Amici Curiae
briefs?
Answer. The amici curiae were a bipartisan group of attorneys with
extensive experience in the Federal court system, including many who
practice criminal law in the relevant courts, and other Federal courts.
Some were prosecutors, government attorneys, or judges.
All had an interest in the proper application of Fed.R.Crim.P 48 in
light of Separation of Powers principles.
Question 4. Did you receive any compensation in connection with
either of these Amici Curiae briefs? If so, please detail the source
and amount of compensation.
Answer. No.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
Robert Harvey
Federal Elections
Question 1. Setting aside the Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Donald Trump received more
votes than Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. presidential
election?
Answer. Congress certified that Donald Trump won the 2024
presidential election on January 6, 2025.
Question 2. Setting aside the official Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Joe Biden received more votes
than President Donald Trump in the 2020 U.S. presidential election?
Answer. Congress certified that Joe Biden won the 2020 presidential
election on January 7, 2021.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Roger Wicker to
Timothy Petty
Aquaculture
Background: Seafood production is a cornerstone of Mississippi's
coastal economy--supporting thousands of jobs and contributing hundreds
of millions of dollars each year through our commercial fisheries,
processors, and seafood markets. Yet nationwide, the United States
continues to import roughly 80 percent of the seafood we consume,
resulting in a seafood trade deficit that now exceeds $20 billion
annually. I see that as a missed opportunity for American workers and
coastal communities. NOAA must play a central role in closing that gap.
Expanding marine aquaculture will help ensure that more of the
seafood on American plates is produced by American hands.
Question 1. If confirmed, will you commit to prioritizing the
growth of U.S. marine aquaculture as part of NOAA's broader strategy to
reduce our seafood trade deficit and support coastal economies like
those in Mississippi?
Answer. A central tenet of the Administration's agenda is the
advancement of American marine aquaculture. The President's Executive
Order, ``Restoring America's Seafood Competitiveness,'' included
provisions for streamlining aquaculture permitting, a commitment NOAA
is actively pursuing. NOAA intends to continue working with the various
regulatory agencies to streamline permitting for greater efficiency and
predictability, while continuing to advance aquaculture research and
promote sustainable practices.
Ocean Observations and Technology
Background: The Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) is the
Nation's leading resource for community-driven coastal, ocean, and
Great Lakes sensor information. This vital program supports a vast
network of buoys, gliders, high frequency radars, and other sensors
that monitor U.S. waters. IOOS deploys, operates, and maintains more
than 300 observing assets at 11 Regional Associations. Mississippi's
Gulf Coast is home to national leaders in ocean observing and research,
including the University of Southern Mississippi, the Stennis Space
Center, and the Gulf Coastal Ocean Observing System.
Question 1. As NOAA's Deputy Administrator, how would you ensure
IOOS data and research are fully applied to improve coastal management,
strengthen forecasting, and support local industries across the Gulf
region?
Answer. I support NOAA's efforts to keep regional ocean observing
data publicly accessible. I will champion the integration of ocean data
from diverse sources--including Federal agencies, universities,
industry, and non-profits--to strengthen our collective understanding.
Continued access to this data is vital for supporting defense
operations, safe maritime navigation, economic activity, public health,
weather prediction, fisheries, conservation, and the responsible
management of ocean and Great Lakes ecosystems.
Question 2. The Gulf Coast is also expanding as a center for marine
technology and innovation, from autonomous systems and advanced sensors
to new data tools that support weather and ocean forecasting. Do you
agree that NOAA should continue to partner with universities, small
businesses, and private industry to expand economic opportunities and
strengthen America's leadership in ocean technology?
Answer. Yes, I support NOAA's continued engagement with
universities, small businesses, and the private sector to expand
economic opportunities and technological leadership. Strategic
partnerships are key to advancing NOAA's mission while also supporting
regional economies, especially along the Gulf Coast. By leveraging
external expertise and innovation, NOAA can enhance its science-based
modeling, forecasting capabilities, improve fishery monitoring, and
support a thriving blue economy.
NOAA Cooperative Institutes
Background: The Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute has
supported and continues to support the Trump administration's
priorities through U.S. leadership in ocean exploration and technology
development. It is the go-to for critical minerals discovery in the
ocean due its expertise with long-endurance autonomous surface and
subsurface vehicles. This work is accelerated through public-private
partnerships with industry.
Question 1. What are your priorities for further implementation of
public-private partnerships with NOAA Cooperative Institutes? How do
you plan to utilize your authorities to incentivize innovative ocean
research and training in the United States?
Answer. If confirmed, I will focus on strengthening NOAA's
partnerships with universities, Tribal nations, states, private sector
and industry to ensure that ocean research and workforce development
reflects the regional and local communities. I will work to broaden
access to NOAA's scientific resources, support collaborative projects
in emerging marine and fishery technologies, and champion training
pathways that prepare the next generation of ocean leaders.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Dan Sullivan to
Timothy Petty
Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness
Alaska alone supplies more than half of the seafood produced
in the entire United States, and it is integral to our way of
life.
Over the last several years, the U.S. seafood industry has
experienced significant economic hardship and drastic declines,
primarily due to unfair and predatory practices from Russia and
China.
In April, President Trump gave fishermen a shot in the arm
with his Executive order for Restoring American Seafood
Competitiveness. We are so thankful to the President for
putting forward such a meaningful EO to help our fishermen.
This EO provides a roadmap to restore the U.S. domestic
fishing industry to greatness.
This EO provides several direct pathways to further support
our Alaska fishermen and our communities, including strategies
to promote marketing, sale, and export of U.S. seafood
products.
I look forward to working with you, NOAA Administrator
Neil Jacobs, Secretary Lutnick, and all of the other agency
heads tasked with ushering in a new Era of Seafood Policy
under this Executive Order. I ask that you use me and my
office as a resource as we move forward on these efforts.
Alaska is the superpower of seafood, supporting 1.6 million
jobs nationwide and providing 10 billion meals each year.
More than $1.7 billion in Alaska seafood products are
exported annually, contributing $15.8 billion to the U.S.
economy.
But, to accomplish all of this, U.S. fishermen need a few
basic things from the Federal government:
Robust and timely fish surveys to inform accurate
science-based stock assessments; and
Timely promulgation of regulations to manage--and
open--the fisheries.
Unfortunately, NOAA's fisheries surveys and stock
assessments are increasingly challenged by aging survey
vessels, data gaps, and delayed reporting, which can lead to
managers being overly cautious and reduce the amount of fish
that can be caught.
This means less money in our American fishermen's pockets
and fewer opportunities for our people to have prime wild-
caught fish--this is real economic harm for Alaska's and
America's fishing communities.
We are the gold standard for sustainable management.
However, if we want to stay competitive and close the
seafood trade gap while keeping
fisheries the most sustainable in the world, NOAA has
to modernize its science, its surveys, and its technology.
That means better data collection, faster processing, and
tools that can give fishermen and managers real-time insights.
A strong NOAA and National Marine Fisheries Service--along
with a dedicated, professional workforce--is also critical to
generating this economic activity and furthering the goals of
the President's EO.
There is a reason these surveys must take place, and we need
to make sure that NOAA's fisheries science centers conduct this
work not just this year, but in future years.
Question 1. Dr. Petty, will you commit to prioritizing the
modernization of NOAA's fisheries science, including improved survey
capacity, data collection, and technology upgrades, so that Alaska's
fishermen and coastal communities can continue to rely on the best
science in the world to sustain their livelihoods and our Nation's
seafood supply?
Answer. Yes.
Question 2. Dr. Petty, I mentioned the EO on Restoring American
Seafood Competitiveness, and how it includes seafood marketing, yet
NOAA has zeroed out the Saltonstall-Kennedy grant program in FY25 and
have not yet allocated money for FY26. Can you commit to ensuring there
is funding for the Saltonstall-Kennedy FY26 grant program?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to keeping you informed regarding
the implementation of the President's Executive Order on Restoring
American Seafood Competitiveness. I also look forward to staying in
touch as the Administration develops the FY2027 President's Budget
request to Congress.
IUU Fishing
Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated or ``IUU'' fishing
poses a significant threat to global marine ecosystems,
economies, and food security. It's estimated that IUU fishing
accounts for up to 20 percent of the global catch, which
translates to global losses between $10 billion and $50 billion
annually.
IUU fishing is generally not an issue in the United States;
our fisheries are the most sustainable in the world. But
sustainably-sourced, legally-caught, high-quality seafood can't
compete with illegally sourced seafood that that is being
plundered from our oceans.
We cannot have IUU fishing continue to threaten the
livelihoods of U.S. fishermen, undermine fair competition, and
deplete global fish stocks. Despite existing enforcement
mechanisms, illegal operators continue to exploit loopholes and
evade oversight, often engaging in forced labor and
environmentally destructive practices.
Because of these threats to U.S. industry, I introduced the
Fighting Foreign Illegal Seafood Harvest (FISH) Act, which
combats IUU fishing globally. The FISH Act is a very bipartisan
bill and is just passed the Senate as an amendment to the FY 26
NDAA.
Question 1. Dr. Petty, can you commit to strengthening enforcement
against IUU fishing and ensuring that American fishermen are competing
on a level playing field?
Answer. Under the new Seafood Competitiveness directive, DOC and
USTR are charged with developing a coordinated strategy to enhance the
vitality of the U.S. seafood sector, including through the Seafood
Trade Task Force. If confirmed, I will leverage this initiative to
improve access to foreign markets, confront unfair trade practices, and
reinforce a fair and thriving domestic marketplace for American seafood
producers through strong interagency and industry collaboration.
NOAA Ocean Data/Research
Dr. Petty, western Alaska is still recovering from the
devastation caused by the remnants of Typhoon Halong, which
brought destructive winds and record storm surges that
displaced families and destroyed homes across Western Alaska.
Events like that remind us just how much is at stake for
Alaska's coastal communities--and how essential NOAA's research
and observing systems are for protecting lives and livelihoods.
Alaskans know better than most that accurate, long-term
forecasting can mean the difference between safety and
catastrophe.
In addition to ensuring the safety of our coastal
communities, ocean data and research are critical drivers for
supporting our Nation's economy, and I commend this
Administration for its focus on unleashing technology and
innovation.
Alaskans know firsthand how important our coasts and oceans
are, several spending much of the year out on the water or
harvesting along our coasts.
However, to fully unleash Alaska's economic potential and
allow our communities to thrive, Alaska needs the tools and
weather forecasts to improve safety, enhance the economy, and
protect the environment for our coastal communities.
For this reason, I cosponsored a bill with my colleague
Senator Wicker to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observing
System (IOOS) at NOAA.
The goals of IOOS decrease risks for Alaska. With better,
faster, and more cost-effective technologies and essential data
we can unlock our economic potential and protect lives and
livelihoods.
Question 1. Will you commit to empowering NOAA's ocean data and
research functions to ensure that Alaska doesn't lose the scientific
capacity for important operational and long-term forecasting?
Answer. Yes.
Alaska Salmon Research Task Force
I now want to turn to what is truly the lifeblood of my
state: salmon.
Salmon is a way of life in Alaska and a primary food source
for many in the state. We don't buy our salmon in the store
like you all do, we fish for it, and we put it up to eat
throughout the year. Salmon closures shake the foundation of
our daily lives.
Over the last several years, we have seen huge disparities
in our salmon runs. Bristol Bay has had fantastic Sockeye
returns, while the Yukon and Kuskokwim are seeing abysmal
returns of King salmon and seasons continue to be closed.
It is imperative that we get to the bottom of what is
causing these fluctuations and poor salmon returns.
Luckily, you've got a basis to work on. My Alaska Salmon
Research Task Force Act was signed into law in 2022 and had
NOAA collaborate with salmon experts in Alaska to chart a path
forward to research why we are seeing such decreased abundance
of salmon.
The report was released last summer with suggestions of
discrete, meaningful research projects that we can undertake to
get to the bottom of this issue.
A major research gap that was identified was that we are
doing very little research on the middle of salmon's lives when
they are in the ocean. That research is crucial to
understanding how to ensure sustainable salmon runs.
Question 1. Can you commit to working with me to prioritize and
build upon the work we have started to better understand why our salmon
runs are decreasing in Alaska?
Answer. Yes.
Russian Seafood Reciprocity Executive Orders
Dr. Petty, I want to bring up something that we talked about
during our meeting and that is the current reciprocal ban on
Russian Seafood.
Russia has banned U.S. seafood from its markets since 2014.
However, for many years, Russia was not subject to any special
import duties in the U.S. Meanwhile, Russia has drastically
increased seafood production since 2022 and is openly working
to flood both U.S. and global markets with cheap seafood to
push out U.S. product.
All the while, our hardworking fishermen could not export a
single fish to Russia. For nearly 10 years we allowed them to
do this and for years, I advocated to address this asymmetrical
and very unfair trade relationship. I was finally successful in
getting the last Administration to roll out a couple of
executive orders to put a stop to this and restore reciprocity.
If we can't enter the Russian market, they shouldn't be able to
flood ours, too.
EO 14068 in 2022 banned imports of Russian seafood. However,
Russia found a loophole by laundering their seafood through
China to circumvent the ban. EO 14114 in 2023 closed this
loophole and made it abundantly clear than any seafood
harvested in Russia is banned from import into the U.S.--even
if it goes through processing in another country.
Russia is our biggest competitor in a lot of the seafood
market, and just like China, they don't play fair.
Question 1. Will you commit to working with Secretary Lutnick to
keep these reciprocal executive orders--EO 14068 and EO 14114--in
place? They are critical to keeping our seafood trade fair.
Answer. If confirmed, I will collaborate with both Secretary
Lutnick, Under Secretary Jacobs, and other stakeholders to ensure these
executive orders are implemented effectively and reflect the
President's priorities. I will also advocate for data-driven
assessments and stakeholder engagement to keep our seafood trade
policies aligned with industry needs and global standards.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Marsha Blackburn to
Timothy Petty
Question 1. Last year, at the urging of Chairman Cruz and myself,
NOAA issued a two-year pause on new permitting restrictions for
undersea cables. This pause was a step in the right direction, but it's
only temporary. That's why I recently introduced the Undersea Cable
Protection Act, which would make that pause permanent and ensure NOAA
cannot impose burdensome regulations that unnecessarily slow down the
deployment of critical subsea cable infrastructure. Given the
importance of undersea cables to our national security, global
communications, and economic competitiveness, do you agree that we need
to eliminate burdensome regulations at NOAA and streamline permitting
so these projects can continue without delay?
Answer. The vital importance of undersea cables for national
security and economic competitiveness is fully acknowledged. The
agency's core responsibility is to ensure that its regulatory processes
are efficient and appropriately streamlined for the deployment of this
critical infrastructure. If confirmed, I commit to prioritizing the
review and efforts to streamline processes related to permitting and
address any unnecessary administrative burdens.
Question 2. Mr. Petty, many industries rely on publicly available
NOAA datasets for the purpose of not only assessing and protecting
against immediate weather risks, but also for historical knowledge that
influences long-term infrastructure planning. NOAA's data and cutting-
edge research helps all taxpayers better understand what risks weather
poses to their communities and properties, and it affects how we act
before and after some of our country's biggest emergencies. In your
view, what is NOAA's proper role in making their data available to the
public?
Answer. NOAA's role in public data access is central to its
mission. By providing open, high-quality datasets, NOAA empowers
communities, industries, and governments to prepare for weather
extremes, design resilient infrastructure, and respond effectively to
emergencies. If confirmed, I will work to strengthen data delivery
systems, improve user interfaces, and deliver science-based datasets to
ensure NOAA's science reaches those who need it most.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Maria Cantwell to
Timothy Petty
NOAA Workforce Reductions
I have serious concerns about the current state of NOAA's
workforce. Since January 2025, NOAA has lost a combined 27,000 years of
experience. The resulting brain drain has impacted the entire agency.
Overall, NOAA now has more than 3,000 vacant positions across the
agency.
On February 19, 2025, I sent a letter to Secretary Lutnick urging
him to protect NOAA's critical workforce from the Trump
Administration's reduction-in-force initiatives and hiring freeze,
which would jeopardize the safety of the American public. Despite this
warning, NOAA has lost over 2,000 employees through probationary
firings and voluntary separation programs. These staffing shortages are
disrupting NOAA's core functions. For instance, over a dozen stock
assessments in New England and the mid-Atlantic have been canceled this
year due to staffing shortages, and additional surveys in the Gulf and
Hawaii were also canceled.
Question 1. Yes or No: Do you believe NOAA can operate at its peak
effectiveness when it has over 3,000 positions vacant?
Answer. If confirmed, my efforts will center on maintaining and
enhancing our critical work in science, dedicated NOAA service, and
effective stewardship.
Question 2. Yes or No: Do you think that the agency's ability to
carry out its mission effectively has been impacted by the loss of
about 2,000 officials since January?
Answer. NOAA has articulated its foundational mission and
operational priorities. Upon confirmation, my focus will be on driving
performance and accountability across these critical mission areas.
Question 3. Yes or No: Will you commit to fill these vacant NOAA
positions under your purview without delay if confirmed?
Answer. Upon confirmation, I will take steps to ensure NOAA
maintains the staffing levels required to execute its vital mission and
strategic goals effectively.
Question 4. What specific steps would you take to ensure the
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and National Ocean Service
(NOS) has sufficient staff to conduct critical activities like stock
assessments, permitting, and oil spill response?
Answer. Upon confirmation, I will immediately collaborate with
NMFS, NOS, and NOAA's Human Capital Services to ensure the skilled
workforce has adequate resources that are essential to advancing our
fisheries and ocean mission and delivering on strategic goals.
Question 5. Will you ensure NOAA is adequately staffed so that
Tribes are able to access meaningful government-to-government
consultation and technical assistance on NOAA programs, including
grants?
Answer. I recognize and uphold the importance of government-to-
government consultations with Tribes in shaping effective and inclusive
policy.
Question 6. What is your plan for rebuilding the base of expertise
that has been lost, ensuring that our science remains cutting edge, and
retaining experts that are otherwise likely to leave for work in other
nations?
Answer. Upon confirmation, I will work to strengthen NOAA's
foundation of expertise by cultivating a culture that empowers and
values our researchers--enabling them to deliver innovative, high-
impact science for the benefit of the American people.
National Marine Fisheries Service
American fisheries are the best managed fisheries in the world
because of science. However, recent staffing cuts and the ongoing
Federal hiring freeze have left NOAA with a shortage of fishery
managers, scientists, and mariners that NOAA needs to operate its
ships.
As a result, many of NOAA's research vessels were tied up at the
dock this summer, resulting in stock assessments being cancelled.
Without stock assessments, NOAA will have to lower harvest levels. That
means fewer fish, fewer fishing jobs, and a damaging ripple effect
throughout coastal economies that rely on seafood.
Question 1. What is your plan to address stock assessment
shortfalls?
Answer. If confirmed, I will collaborate with Congress to secure
the resources NOAA needs to prioritize critical surveys--addressing
mariner workforce gaps and expanding the use of uncrewed systems to
enhance survey capabilities.
Question 2. Yes or No: Do you support moving NMFS, the Office of
Protected Resources, or any of their activities and functions out of
NOAA? If yes, explain why.
Answer. The FY 2026 President's Budget request for NOAA proposes
transferring responsibilities under the Endangered Species Act (ESA)
and Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) from the National Marine
Fisheries Service's Office of Protected Resources to the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service within the Department of the Interior. This shift aims
to enhance interagency coordination, increase operational efficiency,
and streamline the implementation of these laws--ultimately reducing
regulatory burdens for both the public and industry.
Northwest Fisheries Science Center
A significant portion of salmon research occurs at the Northwest
Fisheries Science Center in Seattle. That building is in dire need of
replacement. I previously secured funding for a new building that could
be collocated with the University of Washington, but it was rescinded
by the reconciliation bill.
Question 1. Do you support replacing the Northwest lab facility?
Answer. NOAA's infrastructure, including the Northwest Fisheries
Science Center, is central to advancing scientific research and
conservation goals. These facilities contribute directly to the
recovery of Pacific salmon and steelhead--species that are integral to
the Pacific Northwest's economy, cultural identity, and Tribal Treaty
obligations. Strategic investment in these assets is important but must
be guided by practical and sustainable planning. If confirmed, I will
work closely with Congress, GSA, and local partners to explore
appropriate next steps for the Northwest Fisheries Science Center.
Salmon Infrastructure
Salmon are central to the state of Washington's economy, culture,
Tribal Treaty Rights, and our identity in the Pacific Northwest. We
need a refined strategy with bold actions that restores critical
habitats and advances innovative science to turn the tide on salmon
declines so that we can make meaningful progress on salmon restoration.
Question 1. Do you support including salmon infrastructure, such as
funding for hatcheries and culvert removal, in future infrastructure
and surface transportation packages?
Answer. The health of Northwest salmon populations depends on
effective management of infrastructure and tributary systems. NOAA
views these elements as critical and will continue to collaborate
closely with regional stakeholders to ensure sustainable fisheries for
future generations.
Question 2. If confirmed, will you work with me to solve problems
that harm salmon populations such as culverts and hazardous tire
chemicals?
Answer. The health of salmon populations in the region depends
heavily on the condition of infrastructure and water quality systems.
While transportation management, water quality resources and chemical
oversight fall outside NOAA's direct authority, the agency is dedicated
to working in partnership with state, local, and Federal entities to
ensure these critical resources are managed effectively for the
enduring viability of salmon.
Question 3. Yes or No: Do you support further investments in Tribal
salmon hatchery infrastructure?
Answer. I recognize the deep connection between Tribes and
fisheries resources, and if confirmed, I will work to maintain strong,
enduring partnerships with Tribal governments to address fisheries
management challenges together.
Bipartisan NOAA Programs
I along with Senator Wicker have introduced bills to reauthorize
both the Integrated Ocean Observing System (IOOS) and National Sea
Grant College programs, which would be eliminated in the President's FY
2026 budget. NOAA's buoy provides access to high quality ocean, coastal
and Great Lakes data that weather forecasters, fishermen, marine
transportation, and other ocean users depend on for safety and to
support coastal economic development. And Sea Grant helps protect
coastal communities while supporting our fishermen. Last year,
Washington Sea Grant generated over $60 million in economic benefits to
the State of Washington, nearly 20 times the Federal investment.
Question 1. Do you support the IOOS program?
Answer. I support NOAA's efforts to keep regional ocean observing
data publicly accessible. I will champion the integration of ocean data
from diverse sources--including Federal agencies, universities,
industry, and non-profits--to strengthen our collective understanding.
Continued access to this data is vital for supporting defense
operations, safe maritime navigation, economic activity, public health,
weather prediction, fisheries, conservation, and the responsible
management of ocean and Great Lakes ecosystems.
Question 2. Do you support the Sea Grant program?
Answer. The President's 2026 budget request provides a clear
framework for prioritizing federal expenditures.
Question 3. Do you commit to maintaining programs within NOAA that
are Congressionally mandated?
Answer. If confirmed, I will faithfully follow the law and remain
committed to advancing NOAA's essential work--from ocean and marine
stewardship, fisheries management and to weather forecasting--with
scientific rigor, transparency, and impact effectiveness.
Fisheries Disasters
An important role of NOAA Fisheries is to administer disaster
assistance funds for declared fisheries disasters. U.S. fishermen are
currently waiting on $300 million in appropriated funds for fisheries
disasters assistance to be administered.
Question 1. Do you commit to ensuring NOAA Fisheries quickly
administers appropriated fisheries disaster assistance funds once
confirmed?
Answer. I recognize the critical importance of NOAA's management of
fisheries disaster assistance, which provides support to coastal
economies and fishing communities following catastrophic events. If
confirmed, I commit to working closely with the Department to
administer assistance funds without unnecessary disruption.
Question 2. What steps will you take to ensure fisheries disaster
funds are administered without delay in the future?
Answer. If confirmed, I commit to working with the resources that
Congress provides, and to working with the Department and OMB to
prioritize streamlining the disbursement process to deliver these
critical funds to the impacted states, tribes, and territories.
Illegal, Unregulated, and Unreported (IUU) Fishing
IUU fishing is a key driver of global overfishing that threatens
marine ecosystems, food security, and regional stability. It's a major
global challenge that requires a whole-of-government approach by U.S.
agencies for effective data collection, sharing of information, and
enforcement efforts. The recent Executive Order 14276 on seafood
competitiveness emphasized the urgency of protecting U.S. markets and
maritime security from threats posed by IUU fishing and those products
entering U.S. supply chains. It explicitly calls for enhanced Federal
efforts to counter IUU fishing, improve traceability of seafood
products, and coordinate more effectively across agencies, including
Customs and Border Protection, Coast Guard, and the State Department.
Given the scale of the threat and the vulnerabilities in U.S. seafood
supply chains, this EO represents an opportunity and responsibility for
NOAA to lead and act quickly.
Question 1. What actions will you take to ensure NOAA's efforts to
address IUU fishing is prioritized and sufficiently resourced?
Answer. Ensuring the competitiveness of American seafood means
confronting IUU fishing head-on. If confirmed, I will support NOAA's
efforts to enhance enforcement, expand monitoring of seafood imports,
and build stronger global coalitions to prevent illegally caught fish
from entering the U.S. supply chain.
Question 2. What actions will you take to improve coordination
between NOAA and other agencies and ensure a whole-of-government
approach to combating IUU fishing?
Answer. The Executive Order on Seafood Competitiveness, expanding
upon EO 13921, calls on DOC and USTR to evaluate seafood trade dynamics
and develop a unified strategy, while establishing the Seafood Trade
Task Force under joint leadership. If confirmed, I will actively engage
this mechanism to pursue improved market access, combat unfair trade
practices, and ensure a level playing field for American seafood
producers.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Edward Markey to
Timothy Petty
Question 1. Sound, unbiased ocean and atmospheric research is at
the heart of the component of NOAA you would supervise if confirmed. Do
you agree with the scientific communities' consensus that climate
change is real and already impacting the ocean including American
fisheries?
a. Do you believe that it is NOAA's responsibility to conduct
research and educate the public about all aspects of our changing
climate and how it will impact their daily lives?
Answer. I believe NOAA has a vital responsibility to conduct
rigorous applied research and to communicate its findings with
transparency and clarity. It is essential that the public understands
how changes in our oceans and atmosphere influence daily life--from
weather systems and coastal resilience to food supply and public
safety.
b. If confirmed, how will you ensure that NOAA leads the way in
developing and implementing climate-ready fisheries policies--
supporting adaptive management, advancing ocean and climate science,
and strengthening the resilience of U.S. fishermen and coastal
communities facing these accelerating environmental changes?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure NOAA leads with science-based,
adaptive fisheries policies that respond to changing environmental and
economic conditions. I will prioritize investments in ocean science,
fishery surveys and strengthen data-driven management, while working
closely with fishermen, stakeholders, states, Tribal partners, and
coastal communities to build resilience in the face of international
competition, IUU impacts and environmental change.
Question 2. NOAA has lost significant portions of its workforce
since this administration has begun, hampering its ability to operate.
Do you commit to advocating for and protecting the remaining staff at
NOAA from further reductions in force in order to successfully oversee
the operations of the National Marine Fisheries Service, National Ocean
Service, and other agency components under your supervision?
Answer. If confirmed, I will work closely with NOAA's line offices,
including the National Marine Fisheries Service and National Ocean
Service, and coordinate with the Office of Human Capital Services to
ensure we have the best workforce to deliver on our mission and advance
strategic goals and priorities across the agency.
Question 3. During your nomination hearing you stated that you
believe artificial intelligence (AI) will be critical to addressing
issues managing our fisheries. Yet fisheries management will not be
possible without adequate staff as AI cannot replace many of the
critical staff roles currently vacant due to ongoing reductions in
force. Please list at least three ways you plan to remediate the
staffing issues at the National Marine Fisheries Service caused by the
reductions in force, voluntary resignation program, and overall
attrition (i.e., retirements and early departures).
Answer. If confirmed, I will work to strengthen staffing at the
National Marine Fisheries Service. First, by reinforcing foundational
roles in research and applied science, build law enforcement measures,
and stakeholder engagement that are central to NOAA's fisheries
mission. Second, by investing in people by improving retention
strategies, supporting professional development, and fostering a
culture of excellence. Third, using AI as a tool--not a substitute--to
support staff, streamline operations, and free up human capacity for
priority mission areas and collaboration.
Question 4. You also stated during your nomination hearing that you
understand the dangers posed by algal blooms to our water quality,
public health, and environmental health. If confirmed, will you commit
to supporting career scientists' unbiased assessments of all of the
contributing factors to harmful algal blooms, including from
agriculture?
Answer. If confirmed, I will uphold NOAA's commitment to scientific
transparency and integrity. Supporting career scientists in evaluating
drivers harmful to fisheries and oceans underpin the economic drivers
for a robust fishery population.
a. Will you commit to supporting the recommendations made by career
NOAA scientists to address harmful algal blooms even if they come into
conflict with Department of Agriculture priorities?
Answer. If confirmed, I will guide NOAA with the understanding that
transparency, rigorous science, and open communication are essential to
earning public trust and advancing our core science mission.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. Tammy Duckworth to
Timothy Petty
Federal Elections
Question 1. Setting aside the Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Donald Trump received more
votes than Vice President Kamala Harris in the 2024 U.S. presidential
election?
Answer. After securing certification through the constitutional
process, President Donld Trump assumed office as the 47th President of
the United States on January 20, 2025.
Question 2. Setting aside the official Congressional count and
certification, do you believe President Joe Biden received more votes
than President Donald Trump in the 2020 U.S. presidential election?
Answer. After securing certification through the constitutional
process, former President Joseph Biden assumed office as the 46th
President of the United States on January 20, 2021.
______
Response to Written Questions Submitted by Hon. John Hickenlooper to
Timothy Petty
Colorado River Basin Forecast Center
The Colorado River is the hardest working river in the West. It
supplies water to 40 million people across 7 states while supporting
farms, communities, and economies. Given the climate-induced drought
over the last 25 years, it is critical to closely track the river's
supply.
NOAA plays a vital role in collecting and sharing timely
information to communities about forecasts-including through the
Colorado River Basin Forecast Center, which examines reservoir inflows,
streamflow forecasts, and provides flash flood guidance.
Question 1. Dr. Petty, if confirmed, how will you ensure the
Colorado River Basin Forecast Center continues and expands its critical
water security mission?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure that NOAA's foundational
missions--including collaborative research in the Colorado River
Basin--remain resilient and effective, upholding scientific rigor and
interagency cooperation through any structural or administrative
changes.
NOAA's Facilities and Cooperative Institutes
NOAA's presence in Boulder stretches back over 25 years. NOAA's
collaborations across the scientific community in Boulder extend to
Colorado's NIST campus, NSF National Center for Atmospheric Research
(NCAR), and two Cooperative Institutes supported by NOAA: the
Cooperative Institute for Research in the Atmosphere (CIRA); and
Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES).
Dr. Petty, in our conversation, you shared with me your desire to
preserve and expand public access to NOAA's key datasets.
Question 1. Dr. Petty, if confirmed, will you commit to preserving
the integrity of NOAA's essential research functions and Cooperative
Institute partnerships?
Answer. If confirmed, I will lead NOAA with a commitment to
continuity and excellence in its core missions--from weather
forecasting to fisheries oversight--ensuring they remain effective and
scientifically sound. I will prioritize research that is focused,
agile, and responsive to the evolving needs of communities across the
Nation.
Western Water
The United States should always strive to represent the global gold
standard for weather forecasting and modeling. Emerging technologies
such as quantum computing and artificial intelligence are transforming
every sector of our economy. Dr. Petty, in our conversation, you shared
with me how you would like to help NOAA leverage emerging technologies
like AI and quantum to help address major issues such as drought.
Question 1. Dr. Petty, how would you ensure NOAA's climate and
hydrological data, forecasts, and modeling capabilities are effectively
deployed to help Western states better manage water resources under
worsening drought and aridification?
Answer. If confirmed, I will ensure NOAA's hydrological expertise
is deployed with transparency and open science modeling to support
Western states and Tribal communities facing water stress and demand. I
will champion open data access, support co-developed solutions with
local stakeholders, and maintain scientific rigor in all modeling and
forecasting efforts to guide sustainable water resource decisions.
Question 2. Dr. Petty, how would you strengthen NOAA's
collaboration with state, local, and tribal governments in inland
regions-including farmers, ranchers, and outdoor recreationists-to
expand access to actionable data?
Answer. If confirmed, I will strengthen NOAA's inland partnerships
by using regional engagement through listening sessions and stakeholder
roundtables, ensuring that farmers, ranchers, and outdoor
recreationists have a direct voice in shaping NOAA's data priorities. I
will work to improve the accessibility of NOAA's hydrological tools and
models, allowing local communities to tailor them to meet the
operational needs of inland communities. Additionally, I will support
Tribal and local partnerships to co-develop their own data products
that reflect regional priorities, ensuring that NOAA's science is both
responsive and inclusive.
Wildfire Preparedness
The Mountain West is increasingly threatened by devastating
wildfires. NOAA and the National Weather Service play a key role in
helping forecast, model, and identify areas prone to wildfires.
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, October 21st, we were proud to
advance the bipartisan Fix Our Forests Act in the Senate Committee on
Agriculture, to help increase our preparedness against wildfires.
Question 1. Dr. Petty, how will you ensure NOAA's weather and
climate forecasting tools--particularly those related to precipitation
and fire weather--are improved and communicated in ways that help state
and local officials plan for and mitigate these extreme events?
Answer. If confirmed, I look forward to working with you and your
staff to advance fire weather forecasting. As new technologies,
observations, and data become available, I will work with the NOAA
Administrator and Assistant Secretary for Environmental Observations
and Prediction to ensure NOAA advances forecasting in the area of fire
weather.
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