Heidi Alexander: “Northrop Grumman recently announced that they would consolidate and close Avondale Shipyard by 2013. In the midst of…”

“Northrop Grumman recently announced that they would consolidate and close Avondale Shipyard by 2013. In the midst of economic downturn, the gulf oil spill, the drilling moratorium, layoffs from the NASA shuttle program, the decision to close Avondale will very well have a devastating effect on the State of Louisiana. We must find a solution to help those 5,000 employees that would be affected. Article I, section 9 of the Constitution states that ``no preference shall be given by any regulation of commerce or revenue to the ports of one State over those of another.'' If Avondale were making cruise ships, then this wouldn't be a Federal jurisdiction. However, as Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding has built over 70 percent of the Navy's fleet, I believe this is the time to exercise some intervention into this consolidation process. We must assist the State in finding alternative issues for Avondale Shipyard in Louisiana.”