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Securing Maritime Cargo is Vital to U.S. Security and Economy
New Report Urges Use of “Smart” Containers in Addition to Cargo Screening
WASHINGTON, DC – Maritime trade is a critical part of our economy, but it also represents a serious vulnerability that must be addressed, according to a new report from the nonpartisan Reform Institute. Containing the Threat: Protecting the Global Supply Chain Through Enhanced Cargo Container Security presents a broad overview of the threats involving maritime cargo and provides recommendations for strengthening cargo container security.
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Over 90% of global commerce is carried over the sea. Likewise, maritime commerce is a major pillar of the U.S. economy. This reliance on shipping represents a potential vulnerability; a terrorist attack involving shipping could severely disrupt the global supply chain and cripple the economy. Cargo containers represent a potential vehicle for a weapon of mass destruction to reach U.S. shores. Securing cargo containers and ensuring the flow of goods are key issues for homeland security, and the source of much debate.
Recent legislation mandating that all U.S.-bound maritime cargo loaded at foreign seaports be radiation screened within five years has stirred controversy and doubts concerning the implementation and cost-effectiveness of such a requirement. “While there are some legitimate concerns regarding the 100% screening requirement, the fact of the matter is that it is now the law. Instead of procrastinating and posturing for extensions, all the players should see this as an opportunity to enhance the resiliency of our supply chain,” stated the report’s author, homeland security expert Robert Kelly. “The mandate is workable if innovations such as ‘smart’ containers are utilized, the public and private sectors collaborate closely, and real leadership is exhibited,” added Mr. Kelly, Reform Institute Senior Advisor and Managing Partner of CenTauri Solutions, LLC.
Resiliency is the major focus of the Reform Institute’s work on homeland security. “The Reform Institute is committed to strengthening the ability of the U.S. to withstand and quickly bounce back from a catastrophic event without severe disruption to economic and social activity,” according to Reform Institute Executive Director Cecilia Martinez. “Under the direction of Bob Kelly, we will educate policy makers and the public about the need to focus on resiliency in homeland security policy and provide practical solutions for achieving resiliency.” Mr. Kelly’s distinguished public service career included serving on the White House staff as General Counsel, Office of Administration in the Executive Office of the President, and Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense (Drug Enforcement). He also served as an officer in the U.S. Coast Guard. He also possesses extensive private sector experience.
The report can be accessed at http://www.reforminstitute.org.
About Reform Institute:
The Reform Institute is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) educational organization, representing a unique, independent voice working to strengthen the foundations of our democracy and build a resilient society. The Institute champions the national interest by formulating and advocating for valuable, solutions-based reforms in vital areas of public policy, including homeland and national security, energy independence and climate stewardship, economic opportunity, immigration policy, and government and election reform. Visit our website at http://www.reforminstitute.org.
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To speak with Mr. Kelly or for further information, please contact:
Chris Dreibelbis
Phone No - 703-535-6897
Extension - 12
Email: chris@reforminstitute.org
Website:http://www.reforminstitute.org
Source: Reform Institute
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