Bennie Thompson actually said...

"This staffing shortage hurts workforce morale, while slowing trade and commerce and affecting seaport operations."

"However, this program is meant to be a temporary solution for short-term needs--it should not become a Band-Aid for systematic issues."

"These trends, coupled with the threat of COVID-19--especially for front-line workers who are unable to work from home--pose serious challenges for our seaports."

"Our seaports are vitally important to trade and commerce, not only here in the United States but around the globe."