U.S. merchant mariners are the civilian "fourth arm of defense," playing a critical role in America's international security. When global conflicts or emergencies arise, these professionals provide the trained crews and strategic sealift capacity essential for transporting troops, munitions, fuel, and supplies. Without their support, the U.S. military cannot effectively project power or sustain overseas operations.

Currently, the U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) licensing process is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Coast Guard and Department of Homeland Security, institutions mainly focused on national security and safety. While these priorities are crucial, they often deter the efficiency and focus required for the MMC licensing process. This misalignment causes significant delays and poses hardships for merchant mariners needing timely certification to perform their vital roles.

Over the years, periodic government funding shutdowns have further exacerbated these issues. Each time federal operations are paused, the MMC process comes to a grinding halt, creating chaos and backlogs that could jeopardize the readiness of our merchant fleet.

We propose that the responsibility of U.S. MMC licensing be transferred to the Department of Transportation (DoT). This shift would align the licensing process with an agency specializing in transportation rather than security, ensuring the proper focus and resources are allocated.

The DoT can provide a streamlined approach to credentialing, which would minimize the impact of shutdowns and ensure continuous service. This transition will prevent unnecessary delays, allow for strategic improvements, and facilitate a more stable working environment for our mariners.

In order to maintain the crucial role that U.S. Merchant Mariners play in our national security strategy, it's imperative we revise these processes for greater reliability and efficiency. By making this change, we can enhance our military readiness and safeguard our global reach in times of crisis.

Please join us in urging lawmakers to reassign the U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential licensing process from the U.S. Coast Guard and DHS to the Department of Transportation. Your support can bring about the necessary change to uphold the integrity and functionality of America’s merchant mariners.