The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission swore in Laura DeBella as a commissioner on Jan. 6.
DiBella will serve through June 2028. She was nominated by President Donald Trump in September 2025 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate in December.
Previously, DiBella served as Florida’s first female Secretary of Commerce and as president and CEO of Enterprise Florida. DiBella has also served as the executive director of the Florida Harbor Pilots Association, and as the Port Director for the Port of Fernandina Ocean Highway and Port Authority. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in human resource management and business administration and management from the University of Florida. Officials said she brings knowledge of economic development, as well as skills in business management and experience in the maritime industry to the position.
She has also served as an advisor in to industry, government, and international partners on regulatory issues, supply chain operations, and economic growth strategies. She joined Adams & Reese in 2024 as a Government Relations Advisor advising clients on legislative strategy, government relations, site selection, economic development initiatives, and international trade engagement.
“Laura’s record of leadership speaks for itself. She has been a go-to advisor to our maritime and trade clients, deftly guiding them through complex regulatory issues, supply chain challenges, and strategic growth initiatives with a pragmatic, results-oriented approach. That blend of hands-on operational insight, policy acumen, and commitment to public service will serve her and the Commission exceptionally well,” Matt Paxton, partner in charge of Adams & Reese’s DC office, said.
During her Senate confirmation hearing, DiBella emphasized upholding the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022, and the importance of addressing maritime and inland transportation challenges that continue to affect shippers, carriers, and port operators nationwide.