H.R. 9454 — Next Generation Shipping Act

This section defines 16 terms used in the Act, including automated vessel or cargo systems, charging and fueling infrastructure for zero-emission vessels, clean alternative fuels that achieve at least 90 percent fewer greenhouse gas emissions on a well-to-wake basis, eligible entities such as U.S. vessel owners and port authorities, eligible projects supporting zero-emission vessels and related infrastructure, and maritime decarbonization.

This section establishes the Next Generation Shipping Innovation Program to support research, design, development, demonstration, and deployment of zero-emission vessels, retrofits, and related charging or fueling infrastructure. It authorizes $1 billion annually for fiscal years 2027 through 2036, permits grants, low-interest loans, and loan guarantees, caps administrative costs at 10 percent, requires prevailing wages on assisted construction, prohibits funding for automated vessels or systems, mandates annual public disclosure of applications, and directs prioritization of projects that advance efficiency, reduce noise, deliver environmental co-benefits, engage environmental justice communities, or support workforce training.

This section establishes the Next Generation Shipping Advisory Committee within 180 days after enactment to advise the Secretary and Maritime Administrator on zero-emission vessel technologies. The committee consists of at least 15 members, including minimum representation from federal agencies, labor groups, research institutions, environmental justice and environmental organizations, maritime and zero-emissions fuel industries, states, and ports; meets at least twice annually; and submits reports on program progress every three years beginning two years after enactment, which the Secretary transmits to Congress within 60 days.