DC TRIP 2023 ADVOCATING FOR THE REGION

Economic Alliance Houston Port Region returned to Washington DC March 27-29 for our annual policy trip. Over those few days, the 45-person Economic Alliance Leadership Team conducted 40 meetings with Senate, Congressional and Association representatives, along with a Congressional Dinner to discuss the Houston Port regions Federal Policy Priorities. Each year, Economic Alliance’s Public Policy task force compiles a Federal Policy White Paper to allow our members and partners to advocate as one region with one voice seeking support for the critical issues important to our region including Ship Channel infrastructure improvements, Coastal Barrier appropriation support, and Community College priorities. It was another great year on The Hill.

FEDERAL POLICY PRIORITIES '23

HOUSTON SHIP CHANNEL SUPPLY CHAIN IMPROVEMENTS

Allocations in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, USACE Work Plan, and Inland Waterway Trust Fund for Houston Ship Channel upgrades and maintenance.

PETROCHEMICAL INDUSTRY EFFICIENCIES/PARTNERSHIPS

Reforms to Surface Transportation Board policies to impact product movement and enhanced partnerships with industry to use the most innovative technologies/materials for infrastructure rebuilds.

Community Colleges Workforce Development

Economic Alliance supports policies to enhance port/supply chain infrastructure, skilled worker growth, industry partnerships, and coastal protections for critical economic assets. 1 2 3 4

Increased training funds via the Department of Labor, reforms to Pell Grant eligibility and appropriations from the U.S. Department of Transportation to establish a Maritime Center of Excellence at San Jacinto College.

Thank You Sponsors

Coastal Barrier Economic Asset Protections

Phased appropriations through the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers for the design/construction of a coastal barrier protecting the Texas/Louisiana portion of the U.S. Gulf Coast, impacting our national supply chain/ economy.