A bill to authorize appropriations for the fiscal year 1974 for certain maritime programs of the Department of Commerce.

Authorizes the following fiscal year 1974 appropriations for maritime programs of the Department of Commerce: (1) $275,000,000 for acquisition, construction, or reconstruction of vessels; (2) $221,515,000 for payment of obligations incurred for ship operation subsidies; (3) $20,000,000 for research and development; (4) $3,773,000 for reserve fleet expenses; (5) $8,600,000 for maritime training at the Merchant Marine Academy; and (6) $2,427,000 for financial assistance to state marine schools.

Authorizes additional supplemental amounts for employee benefits such as increases in salary and retirement pay.