Summary of HR 3842

Bill Number: HR 3842

Title: To amend title 46, United States Code, to include the replacement or purchase of additional cargo handling equipment as an eligible purpose for Capital Construction Funds, and for other purposes.

Status: Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation

Introduced: June 09, 2025

Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HR 3842 is to amend Title 46 of the United States Code to expand the eligibility of Capital Construction Funds (CCF). Specifically, the bill seeks to allow the replacement or purchase of additional cargo handling equipment as an eligible use of these funds. This change aims to enhance the operational capabilities of marine terminals and improve the efficiency of cargo movement in the maritime industry.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important amendments:

1. Redesignation of Subsections:

   • Subsections (2) and (3) are redesignated as (3) and (4).
   • Subsections (4) through (9) are redesignated as (6) through (11).

2. Definition of Cargo Handling Equipment:

   • The bill introduces a definition for "cargo handling equipment," which encompasses:
     • Vehicles or land-based equipment used at marine terminals to lift or move cargo.
     • Associated marine terminal or port landside infrastructure.
     • Equipment manufactured in the U.S. or, if not available in sufficient quantities or quality, equipment manufactured outside the U.S.

3. Definition of Marine Terminal:

   • A new definition for "marine terminal" is provided, which includes:
     • Wharves, bulkheads, quays, piers, docks, and other berthing locations.
     • Adjacent storage areas and structures involved in the movement of cargo between vessels and shore.
     • Facilities dedicated to the maintenance of terminals or equipment.

Impact

The amendments proposed in HR 3842 are expected to have several impacts:

• Enhanced Operational Efficiency: By allowing the purchase and replacement of cargo handling equipment, marine terminals may improve their operational efficiency, leading to faster cargo processing times.
• Support for U.S. Manufacturing: The bill encourages the use of domestically manufactured equipment, which could bolster the U.S. manufacturing sector.
• Investment in Infrastructure: The eligibility of CCF for cargo handling equipment may lead to increased investment in maritime infrastructure, potentially benefiting local economies and job creation.

Legislative Actions

• June 09, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
• June 10, 2025: Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.

Sponsors

• Primary Sponsor: Mike Ezell
• Cosponsors:
  • Troy A. Carter
  • Nicole Malliotakis
  • André Carson

This summary provides an overview of HR 3842, detailing its purpose, key provisions, potential impacts, and legislative progress. The bill aims to modernize and enhance the capabilities of marine terminals through improved funding eligibility for essential cargo handling equipment.