The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) has urged US lawmakers to give the port industry $1.5 billion to cover business critical expenses incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, the AAPA said it had sent letters to US House, Senate and Administration leaders stating the critical role ports play in helping the country recover from the worst effects of the pandemic.
Based on a 2018 port economic impacts study, the COVID-19 pandemic could result in a direct loss of 130,000 jobs at U.S. seaports, according to the AAPA.
“Due to the COVID-19 crisis, America’s seaports are experiencing significant financial challenges as commercial cargo has plummeted and passenger travel has nearly ceased,” said AAPA President and CEO Christopher J. Connor.