On the heels of the Dow dropping drastically this week, today Representative Chip LaMarca (R-Lighthouse Point) coordinated a statewide call with the Florida Ports Council and directors from Port Everglades, Port Miami, Port Canaveral, Port Tampa, and Port Jacksonville on the potential economic impact of coronavirus. Port Everglades in Rep. LaMarca’s district, is one of the top three cruise ports in the world, receives and provides fuel for twelve counties, and has a $34 billion total impact on the local economy.
Rep. LaMarca said, “I received a briefing from the Florida Ports Council and the U.S. Coast Guard on the potential economic impact of the worldwide outbreak of coronavirus on our state. Considering Port Everglades is one of the top ports in the world, this could impact not only Broward residents and visitors, but every Florida family.”
“With 231,579 Florida jobs impacted by Port Everglades including 13,127 people who work for companies that provide direct services to the port, my main concern is how this could affect businesses in the community. Even Florida logistics companies who help connect goods by truck and rail to every part of the state could be impacted.”
Representatives from the Florida Ports Council and the directors of Port Everglades, Port Miami, Port Canaveral, Port Tampa, and Port Jacksonville briefed Rep. LaMarca that passenger cruise lines are taking extra precautions and efforts to keep Florida residents and tourists safe. Thanks to the proactive measures by cruise lines, they have seen no drop or cancellations to date for ships leaving Florida ports.
The U.S Coast Guard gave an update on passenger and cargo vessels entering the U.S. They are continuing to work with our ports on implementing temporary measures to safeguard the American public regarding people and cargo coming from potentially impacted areas.
LaMarca further stated, “The Florida Chamber of Commerce’s Chief Economist recently said he is ‘concerned but not panicked’ about the threats on Florida’s economy. I will remain in constant contact with the port authority and all relevant state and federal officials to provide constant updates to the public.”
