253 Senate Russell Office Building

U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) will convene the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security on Tuesday, February 10, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. for a hearing entitled, “Keeping Goods Moving.” The hearing will focus on the U.S. supply chain, particularly the importance of efficiently functioning U.S. ports.  The panel will take expert testimony from witnesses on what it takes to maintain an efficient and reliable U.S. port, as well as the economic and logistical impact of port delays, congestion, and inadequate or outdated infrastructure on our nation’s intermodal transportation network.

Capacity challenges, and the changing dynamics of international shipping highlight the importance of functioning port infrastructure.  Delays underscore how port disruptions can cause manufacturers across the country to cancel orders and lose business, ultimately impacting consumers and the broader economy.  Equipment shortages, labor strife, worldwide moves toward larger vessels, and security challenges all have potential to create new shipping disruptions if not properly addressed.

Hearing Details:

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security hearing entitled:  “Keeping Goods Moving”

10:00 a.m. in room SR-253

For reporters interested in reserving a seat, please contact the press gallery:

•         Periodical Press Gallery – 202-224-0265

•         Radio/Television Gallery – 202-224-6421

•         Press Photographers Gallery – 202-224-6548

•         Daily Press Gallery – 202-224-0241

Please note the hearing will be webcast live via the Senate Commerce Committee website.  Refresh the Commerce Committee homepage 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to automatically begin streaming the webcast.

Individuals with disabilities who require an auxiliary aid or service, including closed captioning service for the webcast hearing, should contact Stephanie Gamache at 202-224-5511 at least three business days in advance of the hearing date.

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