Supporting the Transition of Service Members Into the Merchant Marine
Mar 7, 2019
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Mar 4, 2019
Published on: Mar 7, 2019
Mar 7, 2019
Signed by: Donald Trump
Signed on: Mar 4, 2019
Published on: Mar 7, 2019
Summary
Makes it easier for military members and veterans to use their training to get licenses for jobs on ships in the merchant marine.
What problem does this solve?
The United States does not have enough qualified merchant mariners, which is a risk to national security and the economy. This order helps solve the problem by making it easier for skilled military members and veterans to get the credentials needed to fill these jobs.
What does this order do?
Credit for military training
Requires the military to identify all training and experience that can count towards getting a merchant mariner license.
Covers credentialing fees
Directs government agencies to waive or pay for the credentialing and license fees for active duty service members.
Pays for identification cards
Requires the military to pay for Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) cards for active duty members who are getting a mariner license.
Speeds up service verification
Ensures that separating service members receive proof of their sea service within one month of leaving the military.
Provides online resources
Ensures the military continues to operate the Credentialing Opportunities On-Line website to help separating service members.
Requires yearly progress reports
Mandates the United States Committee on the Marine Transportation System to provide a yearly report to the President on its efforts to help military members become mariners.
Who does this affect?
- Active duty service members
- Military veterans
- U.S. Merchant Marine
What is the real world impact?
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Strengthens national security
Addresses a shortage of trained mariners needed for military sealift operations and global trade by creating a new pipeline of qualified workers from the armed forces.
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Creates veteran employment opportunities
Provides a clear path for service members and veterans to transition into well-paying civilian jobs that use their existing military skills.
When does this start?
This order became effective on March 4, 2019, and includes a specific deadline for action.
Identify qualifying military training
By March 4, 2020, the military must identify all training and experience that may qualify for merchant mariner credentials and send the list to the U.S. Coast Guard.