Indianapolis, Indiana – As the United States celebrates its maritime history, Senator Todd Young is leading the charge to revitalize the nation’s shipbuilding industry with the introduction of the SHIPS for America Act. This legislation aims to reinvigorate American shipbuilding, a critical sector that has long been in decline, and it could bring significant economic benefits to Hoosier workers and communities across Indiana.
The U.S. has always been a maritime nation, with sea power playing a vital role in the country’s rise to global prominence. From the early days of the nation to the modern era, America’s ability to control its sea lanes was a strategic asset. However, this once-thriving industry has been in steady decline for decades. The number of shipyards has dwindled, and the vessels being produced are not designed to compete globally. Meanwhile, China has emerged as the dominant force in commercial shipping, with its fleet now boasting 5,500 vessels, and more than a thousand new ships being added each year.
In stark contrast, the United States currently operates only 80 commercial vessels, with at most five new ships added annually. The situation is even more alarming when you consider that fewer than 0.4% of the tankers and cargo ships carrying goods to and from the U.S. are American-flagged. This decline in the U.S. shipping industry not only harms the nation’s economy but also weakens national security, as the country’s Navy depends on a strong commercial shipbuilding base for support during times of crisis.
Senator Young, a strong advocate for revitalizing the U.S. shipbuilding industry, has teamed up with a bipartisan group of colleagues to introduce the SHIPS for America Act. The legislation shares many of the same goals as President Donald Trump’s earlier executive order, which called for a revitalization of American shipbuilding. One of the key objectives of the SHIPS Act is to build and operate a new fleet of commercial vessels, which will help the U.S. remain competitive on the world stage. The bill also proposes the creation of a trust fund that would support an expansion of the U.S.-flagged international fleet, aiming for 250 ships by 2035.
One of the primary drivers behind the SHIPS Act is the need to close the gap between the U.S. military’s requirements and the nation’s dwindling shipbuilding capacity. A lack of shipyards and a shrinking workforce have left the country vulnerable in times of conflict. By establishing national oversight and consistent funding for U.S. maritime policy, the SHIPS Act seeks to address this critical gap. The bill also aims to cut through bureaucratic red tape, making U.S.-flagged vessels more commercially competitive by rebuilding the shipyard industrial base and creating new opportunities for mariner and shipyard worker recruitment.
The economic implications of the SHIPS Act are significant, particularly for Indiana. With three ports and the Corn Island Shipyard in Spencer County, Indiana has a unique stake in the success of the nation’s maritime industry. Hoosier steel manufacturers, in particular, could see increased demand for their products as shipbuilding ramps up across the country. Small component manufacturers throughout the state would also stand to benefit from the demand for materials and parts required to construct new vessels.
Since the introduction of the SHIPS Act, several Indiana-based businesses have already expressed enthusiasm for the potential growth opportunities the bill could bring. Many small businesses in the state have shared their optimism about the increased job opportunities and economic benefits that would result from a revitalized U.S. shipbuilding sector. The SHIPS Act could provide the long-term stability and growth these companies need to expand and hire more workers, creating a ripple effect of economic growth throughout the state.
While there are challenges ahead, including the need for significant investment and time to rebuild the shipbuilding industry, Senator Young stresses that the cost of inaction is far greater. “Reviving American shipbuilding will take time and come at a cost,” Young said. “But the cost of failing to act is even greater. Congress should pass the SHIPS Act to keep pace with China, support American workers, and reclaim U.S. maritime supremacy.”
For Hoosiers, the passage of the SHIPS Act could be a game-changer. With the potential to create jobs, foster economic growth, and strengthen national security, the bill offers a unique opportunity for the state to play a central role in the future of American maritime industry. “It’s time to make American ships again,” Senator Young declared, urging Congress to take action.
As America looks to its future in the maritime industry, the SHIPS for America Act could provide the foundation for a stronger, more secure, and economically vibrant nation. For Indiana, this is more than just a national issue — it’s a chance to secure new opportunities for workers and businesses, ensuring that Hoosiers remain at the forefront of America’s maritime revival.
