Rep. Rick Larsen (WA-02) today applauded the findings of the U.S. Coast Guard that Dakota Creek Industries (DCI) did not knowingly violate the Jones Act in the construction of the America’s Finest, clearing the way to preserve hundreds of jobs at DCI in Anacortes.

“The Coast Guard worked hard to create a thorough report absolving Dakota Creek and giving the green light to the America’s Finest vessel,” said Larsen. “The employees at Dakota Creek support a job-creating industry that strengthens national defense and fosters innovation and contributes to the maritime economy in Washington state and Alaska. I am proud to be a part of giving the hard working employees at Dakota Creek a stronger future.”  

Larsen has been a strong advocate for DCI. The recently-enacted Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018 includes a Jones Act waiver for the 264-foot America’s Finest vessel. The waiver was subject to a 30-day Coast Guard review, which is now complete, and will allow the America’s Finest to maintain its vessel certification and provide higher performance and increased safety for the crew. The Jones Act places restrictions on the amount of foreign-made steel allowed in construction of fishing vessels in an effort to promote U.S.-built and flagged vessels. The Coast Guard concluded DCI did not knowingly use excess foreign steel for the America’s Finest. Larsen has successfully included the waiver for DCI twice in related House-passed legislation.

In November, Larsen spoke on the House Floor in support of the legislation. Larsen is the only member of the Washington state delegation serving on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and is a senior member of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.

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