News Release
FOR RELEASE - October 7, 2026
Contact: Shawn Balcomb, press@aapa-ports.org
American Association of Port Authorities
Phone: (202) 792-4033
www.aapa-ports.org
Washington, D.C. – Today, the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) President and CEO released the following statement on the Senate’s long-awaited permitting reform package S. 5653, the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act of 2026:
"The reforms to our nation's permitting laws in the Bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act are long overdue,” stated Sang Yi, AAPA President and CEO. “Critical port infrastructure projects like deeper channels or upgraded terminals are far too often delayed or even altogether halted due to frivolous lawsuits and lengthy environmental reviews. Our sincere thanks go to Senators Capito, Lee, Heinrich, and Whitehouse for their determined efforts to modernize an inefficient and outdated permitting system."
Background:
These reforms build on the permitting reform wins on grant administration for critical port projects that AAPA was able to secure in the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act.
Read the full bill text here.
About AAPA:
The American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) is the unified voice of port leaders and maritime industry partners across the Western Hemisphere which serve a vital role in job-creation, international competitiveness, and economic prosperity. Connecting small business owners, retailers, and manufacturers to the global marketplace, AAPA member organizations advocate for national policies and infrastructure investments in support of a resilient global supply chain and a positive impact on the way people live, work, travel, and engage in commerce.
