American industries will either switch some cargo to Canadian or Mexican ports or shift to a land-based mode. Yet, these options are presently available. Because water delivery via American ports is the most cost-effective means of transportation. Whatever alternate route industry chooses, its costs WILL increase. A modal switch to land-based transportation will harm the environment.
Vessels are the greenest form of transportation.
Since there's less friction as a ship or barge moves through water, vessels burn much less fuel per ton carried and produce fewer emissions. Current law prohibits the Coast Guard from charging for Search and Rescue. Given that Aids to Navigation and Icebreaking are services to the entire nation, Congress must expand that prohibition to include these vital missions. Aids to Navigation and Icebreaking must always be funded from general revenues.