(a) [1] Strategic Plan.—
(1) In general.—
Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this section, and at least once every five years thereafter until the termination date under paragraph (6), the Secretary of Transportation, acting through the Administrator of the Maritime Administration, shall publish in the Federal Register a plan to recruit, train, and retain merchant mariners for the five-year period following the date of publication of the most recently published plan under this paragraph.
(2) Contents.—A plan published under paragraph (1) shall contain—
(3) Factors.—In developing a plan under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall take into account, at a minimum—
(4) Consultation.—
In developing a plan under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consult with representatives of the maritime industry, labor organizations, including the Commander of the Transportation Command and the Commander of the Military Sealift Command, and other governmental entities and stakeholders in the maritime industry.