President Donald Trump's administration is considering temporarily waiving Jones Act restrictions on domestic shipping to ensure the stability of supply chains during the US-Israel war with Iran.
While the action has not been finalized, the waiver would be for a limited period to ensure energy and agricultural products are flowing freely to US ports, the White House told Argus today.
The Jones Act is a longstanding US maritime law that requires commercial vessels operating between US ports to be built, owned, operated and crewed by US citizens. Jones Act tankers normally command a premium because of their unique status and limited number compared to the overall international fleet.
While permanent changes to the Jones Act require congressional approval, waivers can be issued by the president's administration, often during natural disaster-driven supply chain disruption.
