Gillen Joins Bipartisan Group of Lawmakers in Introducing USMMA Modernization Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers in introducing H.R. 2429, a bill directing the Secretary of Transportation to develop a full-scale campus modernization of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.

“For more than 80 years, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has been the pride of Long Island. As one of America’s five service academies, USMMA is a pathway for young Americans to serve our country and contribute to our maritime security. I’m proud to join Rep. Garbarino and my colleagues in working together for Long Island and leading this bipartisan bill to strengthen Long Island’s tradition of producing the best Midshipmen and mariners in the world,” said Rep. Gillen. 

The legislation authorizes $1.02 billion from FY2026 to FY2035 via the Maritime Security Trust Fund, beginning with $54 million for design and planning in the first year and annual construction funding of over $107 million thereafter. The bill calls for complete operational continuity at the Academy throughout construction and recommends using design-build contracting to speed delivery and reduce costs.

“For generations, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has trained the men and women who keep our supply chains moving and our national defense strong,” said Rep. Garbarino. “But the infrastructure on campus must keep up with the rigorous demands placed on today’s Midshipmen. This bill ensures the Academy remains a world-class institution worthy of its mission.”

“To ensure the Merchant Marine Academy continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of maritime and national security leaders, Congress must invest in its infrastructure, which has languished since the mid-20th century. Doing so is essential to providing Midshipmen, who will go on to serve America around the globe,  with the education and hands-on training they need to excel in critical industries like marine transportation and defense," said Rep. LaLota. "Upgrading these facilities will strengthen the Academy’s ability to prepare top-tier officers and ensure it remains a premier institution for the nation’s future maritime leaders."

“The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy is a national treasure that has been neglected for decades. It is time to restore it to its former glory!” said Rep. Suozzi.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

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