Citing critical needs of port security in American, U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) announced his intention to establish an Ohio River and Inland Port Congressional Caucus to bring members of Congress and their staffs together with information and opportunities on critical matters affecting the Ohio River inland waterway navigation system and inland ports along the river.

"A strong Ohio River Caucus will give us a unified voice in the Congress to help promote Ohio River development on the Federal level," Rahall said. "The Caucus will also serve as a forum for discussion and, most importantly, action on how to improve the safety and security of this essential inland waterway and increase commerce and generate greater economic activity."

The decision to form the caucus follows a series of recent meetings related to the Port of Huntington and commerce and port security issues along the Ohio River which Congressman Rahall has held with the various entities including the WV Port Authority, the Rahall Transportation Institute, the National Maritime Enhancement Institute at Marshall University, the Huntington District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Port of Pittsburgh and representatives from the private sector.

"This can be a powerful voice in Congress for the promoting the safety of the Ohio River and the important role it has played, it plays and will continue to play in driving the economic engine of the United States," Rahall said. "I hope all of my neighboring colleagues, regardless of party affiliation, will join me in this important endeavor."