((a)) ** In general** Upon a request from a non-Federal interest, the Secretary shall review a report developed by the non-Federal interest that provides an economic justification for Federal investment in the operation and maintenance of a federally authorized harbor or inland harbor (referred to in this section as a “federally authorized harbor”).

((b)) ** Justification of investment** A report submitted under subsection (a) may provide for an economic justification of Federal investment in the operation and maintenance of a federally authorized harbor based on—

((1)) the projected economic benefits, including transportation savings and job creation; and

((2)) other factors, including navigation safety, national security, and sustainability of subsistence harbors.

((c)) ** Written response** Not later than 180 days after the date on which the Secretary receives a report under subsection (a), the Secretary shall provide to the non-Federal interest a written response to the report, including an assessment of the information provided by the non-Federal interest.

((d)) ** Prioritization** As the Secretary determines to be appropriate, the Secretary may use the information provided in the report under subsection (a) to justify additional operation and maintenance funding for a federally authorized harbor in accordance with .section 2211(b) of this title

((e)) ** Limitation on statutory construction** Nothing in this section may be construed to preclude the operation and maintenance of a federally authorized harbor under .section 2211(b) of this title