Press Releases

Today, the House of Representatives passed Representative John James’ (MI-10) critical amendment to move funds to the U.S. Coast Guard for the procurement of an already authorized Great Lakes icebreaker (GLIB). The GLIB is needed to bolster and maintain commerce during the winter months and to respond to winter flooding of Great Lakes communities. The United States economy is reliant on the Great Lakes and this amendment will ensure that harsh Midwest winters do not disrupt critical supply chains. Supporting the economic and environmental health of the Great Lakes remains a consistent focus of Rep. James. Since taking office, Rep. James has championed a number of pro-Great Lakes measures, including supporting the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, leading efforts to prevent nuclear waste storage on the Great Lakes, and boosting the Soo Locks.

Rep. James issued the following statement after the bill passed:

“The procurement of this already authorized Great Lakes icebreaker will mean smoother commerce in the Great Lakes region during the winter months. The Great Lakes account for countless jobs in Michigan and the entire upper Midwest, and its economy is critical to the overall health of American commerce and trade. I am happy to have led these efforts in the House, and urge the Senate to swiftly adopt these measures to ensure this amendment can be signed into law.” 

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