SPACE Act aims to reform CBP funding at US Ports, AAPA welcomes bill

The SPACE Act, first introduced in November 2023, also aims to improve accountability by enhancing transparency in CBP charges to local port partners. It has garnered bipartisan support, with original cosponsors including Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Julia Brownley (D-CA), and Troy Carter (D-LA). It is also backed by 27 organisations across the trade, logistics, and agriculture sectors.

“CBP officers' work is crucial to the safety, health, and vitality of America’s ports and we sincerely thank them,” Cary Davis, president and chief executive officer (CEO) at AAPA, said in a press release. “However, the costs of government inspection operations are historically and constitutionally, a Federal government responsibility. Moreover, port commerce generates hundreds of millions of dollars in public tax revenue—taxpayers benefit when those funds are reinvested in the activities that generate future revenues in a virtuous cycle.”

Port leaders nationwide echoed their support. Richard J Hendrick, CEO of the Port of Albany, emphasised the importance of efficient inter-agency collaboration, while Julianna Marler of the Port of Vancouver US noted the act would strengthen ports' roles as economic engines.

Leaders from Port Everglades, Port Tampa Bay, Massport, and SeaPort Manatee also expressed gratitude for the legislation’s focus on proper federal funding and reinforced partnerships with CBP.

The AAPA viewed the SPACE Act as a decisive step towards reinforcing the security, efficiency, and financial clarity of US ports while aligning federal responsibilities with national economic goals, the release added.

ALCHEMPro News Desk (SG)