Baudin

Q4 2017 Visit to the Port of Wilmington Wilmington, N.C. - Senator Sarah Baudin visited the Port of Wilmington today to advocate for her recently introduced legislation, the Enhancing Competitiveness and Environmental Stewardship in Maritime Transport Act. The event highlighted the importance of modernizing maritime regulations to bolster economic growth and environmental sustainability. The visit included a tour of the port facilities, a press conference, and a meeting with local business leaders and port officials. Senator Baudin commenced her visit with a comprehensive tour of the Port of Wilmington, one of North Carolina's largest and most vital economic hubs. She observed the operations of the port, focusing on the challenges faced by shipping companies in complying with current ballast water management regulations. Port officials demonstrated the existing systems and explained the complexities and costs associated with retrofitting ships to meet both national and international standards. At the press conference, Senator Baudin emphasized the critical need for her proposed legislation. She articulated the bill's key components, stressing how aligning U.S. regulations with international standards would reduce compliance costs and enhance the competitiveness of American ports. "We need to ensure our ports, like Wilmington, can compete on a global scale," Senator Baudin stated. "By modernizing our ballast water management regulations, we reduce burdens on our shipping industry and promote technological innovation, which is vital for economic growth and job creation." Senator Baudin also addressed the environmental benefits of the bill, highlighting its role in preventing the spread of invasive species and protecting marine ecosystems. "This legislation strikes a balance between economic growth and environmental stewardship, ensuring that our coastal communities and marine environments remain protected for future generations." In a private meeting with local business leaders and port officials, Senator Baudin discussed the practical implications of the bill and gathered feedback on its provisions. Jack Granger, a staffer for Senator Baudin's Wilmington office, remarked, "Senator Baudin's bill addresses many of the challenges the coastal and industrial region of North Carolina face daily. It not only supports economic growth but also ensures that we maintain high environmental standards. This is crucial for the sustainability of operations." The event concluded with a Q&A session, where Senator Baudin engaged with the local community, answering questions about the bill and its potential impact on the region. Senator Baudin's visit to the Port of Wilmington hopes to showcase the significance of the Enhancing Competitiveness and Environmental Stewardship in Maritime Transport Act for the North Carolina economy. The legislation, recently introduced to the United States Senate will drive economic growth, foster innovation, and protect North Carolina's valuable marine ecosystems. As Senator Baudin continues to advocate for this legislation, she reinforces her dedication to supporting the state's maritime industry and ensuring its long-term sustainability and competitiveness.

Senator Sarah Baudin Public Appearances

Name: Sarah Baudin Media/Outlet: Your World With Neil Cavuto Reason: The Enhancing Competitiveness and Environmental Stewardship in Maritime Transport Act Many of our ballast water management regulations remain outdated and behind international standards. My bill updates antiquated ballast water management regulations to align with international standards. This reduces compliance costs for U.S. shipping companies and ensures our ports remain competitive globally. By providing tax credits and grants for developing and implementing new ballast water management technologies, this bill incentivizes innovation, spurs economic growth, and creates jobs not just in North Carolina but in all coastal states. There is far too much red tape across the board when it comes to America's ports, which only hurts the American consumer. The bill streamlines the approval process for ballast water management systems, cutting red tape and reducing bureaucratic delays. This makes it easier and faster for businesses to comply with regulations, fostering a more business-friendly environment. While fostering economic growth, the bill also prioritizes environmental protection by preventing the spread of invasive species through improved ballast water treatment. This ensures the sustainability of our marine ecosystems, which are vital to the economies of coastal states, and also boosts tourism potential in our beaches as harbors.

#002 Baudin Introduces Legislation to Modernize Maritime Regulations & Boost North Carolina’s Economy Raleigh, NC — Today, Senator Sarah Blackwood Baudin (R-NC) introduced the Enhancing Competitiveness and Environmental Stewardship in Maritime Transport Act, a comprehensive bill designed to modernize ballast water management regulations, promote technological innovation, and enhance the competitiveness of the U.S. maritime industry. This legislation is a significant step forward in ensuring that North Carolina’s ports and shipping industries thrive while protecting our precious marine ecosystems. Senator Baudin said in a statement from her Raleigh Office: "I am proud to introduce the Enhancing Competitiveness and Environmental Stewardship in Maritime Transport Act. This bill is a win-win for North Carolina and the nation. By modernizing outdated regulations, we are aligning with international standards and reducing burdens on our shipping industry, making it easier for North Carolina’s businesses to compete globally. This legislation also promotes innovation by providing tax incentives and grants for new, effective ballast water management technologies, ensuring that our state remains at the forefront of maritime innovation. Our coastal communities and marine environments are vital to North Carolina’s economy and way of life. This bill takes a balanced approach, protecting our waters from harmful invasive species while fostering economic growth and job creation. The streamlined regulatory processes will make it easier for businesses to comply, reducing red tape and administrative costs. I am committed to making sure that North Carolina’s ports and shipping industries remain competitive, vibrant, and environmentally responsible. This legislation is a crucial step in achieving that goal, and I look forward to working with my colleagues in the Senate to make it a reality." The bill ensures that U.S. ballast water management regulations are in line with international standards, creating a level playing field for North Carolina’s shipping industry. There are significant challenges in complying with the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Ballast Water Management Convention, which will come into force in September 2017. Many U.S. ports and ships face high costs and technical complexities associated with retrofitting ships with ballast water management systems (BWMS), which can range from $1 million to $5 million per ship. The legislation provides tax credits for shipping companies investing in new ballast water treatment technologies and establishes grants for research and development of innovative solutions. By providing financial support, the bill aims to offset these costs and encourage compliance. The bill streamlines and expedites the approval process for ballast water management systems, reducing regulatory burdens on businesses and coordinating efforts between agencies to minimize bureaucratic overlap. Additionally, it recognizes and rewards companies that exceed compliance standards through voluntary compliance programs, fostering a culture of corporate responsibility and environmental stewardship. The bill also promotes global standards for ballast water management through international cooperation, facilitating smoother international trade. Finally, it conducts regular studies to assess the economic and environmental impacts of the regulations, ensuring their effectiveness and benefits. The bill supports job creation and economic growth by making our ports and shipping industries more competitive. By preventing the introduction of harmful invasive species, it helps protect North Carolina’s marine ecosystems. The incentives for new technologies ensure that North Carolina remains a leader in maritime innovation and environmental protection. By reducing regulatory burdens and providing financial incentives, it supports the shipping industry while protecting marine ecosystems. The streamlined regulations provide greater certainty for businesses, reducing the risk of non-compliance and associated penalties. By encouraging technological innovation, the bill ensures that North Carolina remains at the forefront of maritime leadership, fostering a robust and competitive economy. Senator Baudin’s legislation represents a forward-thinking approach to maritime regulation, balancing economic and environmental priorities to benefit all North Carolinians.

#001 Baudin Supports Federal Assistance for Hurricane Harvey Victims Washington, D.C. – Senator Sarah Baudin (R-NC) today announced her strong support for federal assistance to aid the recovery efforts in Texas following the devastation caused by Hurricane Harvey. Drawing from her own state's experience with Hurricane Irene, Senator Baudin emphasized the importance of solidarity and swift action in times of natural disasters. Today, I stand with the people of Texas as they face the unprecedented destruction left in the wake of Hurricane Harvey, said Senator Baudin. As a North Carolinian, I vividly remember the aftermath of Hurricane Irene and the critical role that federal assistance played in helping our communities rebuild and recover. It is our duty to extend the same support and compassion to our fellow Americans in Texas. Senator Baudin highlighted the extensive damage and human suffering caused by Hurricane Harvey, which has displaced thousands of families and caused billions of dollars in damage. She underscored the necessity of federal aid in ensuring that the affected regions receive the resources they need to recover and rebuild stronger. Natural disasters do not discriminate based on state lines or political affiliations. They strike with a force that demands a unified and robust response from all levels of government, Baudin continued. While I understand the concerns about federal spending, the immediate needs of our fellow citizens in Texas must take precedence. The aid package which has been approved will provide crucial funding for emergency response, infrastructure repair, and support for the many families who have lost everything. Senator Baudin also called on her conservative colleagues to recognize the long-term benefits of federal disaster aid, noting that timely and effective assistance can significantly reduce the overall cost of recovery and strengthen national resilience. In times of crisis, it is imperative that we come together as a nation. The swift approval of federal aid for Hurricane Harvey victims will not only address the immediate needs but also lay the groundwork for a stronger, more resilient America. I urge my colleagues to put aside partisan differences and prioritize the well-being of our fellow citizens in Texas. Senator Baudin concluded her statement by expressing her heartfelt prayers and support for all those affected by Hurricane Harvey and reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that North Carolina remains prepared and resilient in the face of future natural disasters.

Senator Sarah Blackwood Baudin Senator for North Carolina PRESS OFFICE

Name: Sarah Blackwood Baudin Seat: North Carolina III Party: Republican Avatar: Penny Mordaunt Major Caucus: Freedom Caucus Gender: Female {5 points} Age: 50 years {0 points} Born 1967 Sexuality and Gender: Straight, married, with four children {0 points} Ancestry: Caucasian {0 points} Religion: Roman Catholic {0 points} Educational History: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1988 {5 points} University of Chicago JD, 1991 {20 points} Economic Class: Upper Class {-5 points} Occupational History: 1991-1997: United States Foreign Service {20 points} 2000-2007: Cranfill Sumner LLP {10 points} 2007-2016: Baudin Blackwood & Associates PLLC {5 points} For being well-known as a Lawyer... {10 points} 2017-Present: United States Senator for North Carolina 70 points Biography: Sarah Blackwood Baudin was born in 1967 in Raleigh, North Carolina, into a family deeply rooted in the local community. Growing up, Sarah excelled academically and was an active member of her church and local community in Raleigh. Her keen interest in global affairs and law led her to pursue higher education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she graduated in 1988 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Following her undergraduate studies, Sarah attended the University of Chicago, where she earned her Juris Doctor degree in 1991. Her academic achievements and passion for international law paved the way for her entry into the United States Foreign Service. From 1991 to 1997, Sarah served with distinction in the Republic of Côte d'Ivoire, working with Consular Affairs. During this time, she developed a specialization in International Maritime Law, addressing complex legal issues related to shipping, trade, and international waters. After her tenure in the Foreign Service, Sarah returned to North Carolina and joined the prestigious law firm Cranfill Sumner LLP in 2000. Her expertise in international law and her diplomatic experience quickly made her a well-known figure in the legal community. In 2007, she co-founded Baudin Blackwood & Associates PLLC, where she continued to build her reputation as a leading lawyer in maritime law and international legal matters. In 2016, with the announcement of Senator Richard Burr’s decision to retire, Sarah saw an opportunity to bring her expertise and fresh perspective to the Senate. Despite her impressive credentials, she faced a highly competitive primary race. As a newcomer to electoral politics, she was initially considered a longshot against more established candidates with deeper political connections. Undeterred, Sarah launched her campaign with a platform focused on economic development, national security, and a commitment to conservative values. As a member of the Freedom Caucus, she emphasized the need for limited government, individual liberties, and a strong national defense. Her background in the Foreign Service and her specialization in international maritime law allowed her to present a unique and compelling vision for addressing both domestic and international challenges. Sarah’s campaign was driven by grassroots engagement. She traveled extensively throughout North Carolina, connecting with voters in urban and rural areas alike. Her message resonated with many Republicans who felt that new leadership was needed to address the evolving challenges facing the state and the country. One of the central themes of her campaign was her deep understanding of international issues, particularly in the realm of trade and maritime law. She argued that her expertise would be crucial in navigating the complexities of global trade agreements and ensuring that North Carolina’s representatives continued to put America first. Sarah’s background in the Foreign Service added to her appeal as a candidate capable of handling national security matters. She highlighted her experience dealing with international diplomacy and legal issues, positioning herself as someone who could bring a unique and informed perspective to the Senate. Her campaign also focused on key domestic issues. She advocated for policies that would spur economic growth, such as tax reform and reducing regulatory burdens on businesses. She pledged to support the agricultural sector and to work towards improving the state’s infrastructure. Despite facing well-funded and politically seasoned opponents, Sarah’s campaign gained momentum. Her ability to articulate a clear vision for North Carolina’s future and her commitment to conservative principles won her the support of many voters. She secured endorsements from influential figures within the Republican Party and garnered significant grassroots support. Her message of change and her dedication to representing North Carolina’s interests resonated with the voters, leading her to a decisive victory in the primary and subsequently in the general election. Sarah Blackwood Baudin’s successful Senate campaign marked the beginning of her career as a United States Senator for North Carolina. She continues to serve with distinction, advocating for the values and priorities of her constituents while bringing a fresh and informed perspective to the Senate. Balancing her demanding career with her responsibilities as a mother and her active involvement in her church, Sarah draws upon her faith to guide her decisions and maintain a strong moral compass in both her personal and professional life. She is married to Benjamin Baudin, also a lawyer. Together the couple have four children - Luke, James, Maggie, and Paul.