Maritime Security Tax Opposed

WASHINGTON - Apr 8/04 - SNS -- Proposed legislation to impose security service fees on "commercial maritime transportation entities" to finance wide-ranging port security-related activities is opposed by the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and North American Export Grain Association (NAEGA).

The groups are urging the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee to reject proposals in bill (S. 2279) that would impose $2 billion in new user fees over the next five years to finance port security activities of the Department of Homeland Security "that are clearly federal responsibilities" and in the broad national interest.

The Senate committee later today is scheduled to consider a wide-ranging maritime security bill sponsored by Sens. John McCain, R-Ariz., Ernest F. Hollings, D-S.C., and John Breaux, D-La., that includes provisions that would assess fees on unspecified commercial entities.

The legislation would authorize use of the fees to provide grants to port authorities and facility operators; financial assistance to those required to provide security services in compliance with maritime security plans; and funding for federal port security programs.

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