Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today applauded the signing of the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018, which will save hundreds of jobs at Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) in Anacortes. 

“Yesterday, I had the chance to meet with the hard-working women and men of Dakota Creek Industries to celebrate the passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act and to recognize the importance of shipbuilding to Washington state’s economy,” said Larsen. “The employees at Dakota Creek support an industry that creates good jobs, strengthens national defense, fosters innovation and contributes to the maritime economy in Washington state and Alaska. I am proud to stand with the women and men of Dakota Creek to finally secure a Jones Act solution.”

Larsen has been a strong advocate for Dakota Creek Industries. The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 includes a Jones Act waiver for the 264-foot America’s Finest vessel, subject to Coast Guard review, which will provide higher performance and increased safety for the crew. The Jones Act places requirements on the amount of foreign-made steel allowed in construction of fishing vessels in an effort to promote U.S.-built and flagged vessels. Larsen has successfully included the waiver for DCI twice in related House-passed legislation.

“I appreciate the coordination with Senator Cantwell, Senator Sullivan and Rep. Don Young as we have worked non-stop to find avenues to save hundreds of jobs on the line,” said Larsen.

The U.S. Coast Guard will now undertake a 30-day review of whether the shipyard or purchaser knew components used in the manufacturing of the vessel violated Jones Act requirements.

“This has been a very difficult and stressful two years for Dakota Creek, and the signing of this bill is a huge relief for all our employees. We now can get back to work serving our valued customers with the support of our many suppliers throughout the region. We wish to express our sincere gratitude to Senator Maria Cantwell, Senator Dan Sullivan and Congressman Don Young for their work in getting this important legislation passed and we would especially like to thank Congressman Rick Larsen and his staff for their tremendous efforts in seeing this through from beginning to end,” said Dakota Creek Industries owner Mike Nelson.

Last week, Larsen spoke on the House Floor in support of the legislation. Larsen is the only member of the Washington state delegation serving on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

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