WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate this week approved the Maritime Administration Improvement Act of 2006 as part of the John Warner National Defense Authorization Act which passed the Senate.  The Maritime Administration Improvement Act of 2006 (originally introduced as S.3852) exempts Academy graduates who choose to serve on active duty in the armed forces from certain requirements otherwise required of graduates that do not serve on active duty. Those cadets that choose to serve active are instead obligated to the terms of service of the branch under which they serve.

The bill also clarifies authority for the use of the Maritime Administration decoration. In addition, the bill provides an alternative approach for Maritime Security Program operators to meet U.S.-built replacement vessel requirements, including construction and operation of equivalent domestic trade tank vessels.