Why is the Jones Act still in effect?

Losing these assets and having to rely on foreign competitors to move our military would hurt our ability to project power during a time of war or national emergency. These national security concerns are why the Jones Act continues to enjoy broad support in Congress.

Why is the Jones Act bad for Puerto Rico?

Foreign vessels are unable to solve the “piston” problem because they are not allowed to transport goods between U.S. ports at all. Instead of benefitting the U.S. economy broadly, the Jones Act causes losses for Puerto Ricans, U.S. mainland companies and — to some extent — the Jones Act carriers themselves.

What is the Jones Act and how does it affect Puerto Rico?

Last year the American Maritime Partnership released a report claiming that the Jones Act, a protectionist law which requires domestic water transport to be performed by vessels that are U.S.-made, crewed, owned, and flagged, imposes no cost on consumers in Puerto Rico.

Was the Jones Act suspended?

The Jones Act has been suspended because of natural disasters in the past. The federal government suspended the law after Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and Hurricane Maria devastated parts of the United States.

Does the Jones Act apply to Hawaii?

Michael Hansen, “Jones Act Does Not Bar International Trade From Hawaii.”

What is Jones Act coverage?

The Jones Act is a federal law that gives seamen who were injured in the course of their employment the right to sue their employer for personal injury damages. Unlike almost all land-based workers, seamen are not entitled to workers’ compensation benefits under either state or federal law.

How does the Jones Act affect tankers?

The Jones Act increases the cost of shipping to Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, and other non-continental U.S. lands that rely on imports by restricting the number of vessels that can legally deliver goods.