This bill would allow foreign-flag freight vessels to transport goods between U.S. ports in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories. Currently, only U.S.-built and mostly U.S.-owned and crewed vessels can do this domestic 'coastwise' trade under the Jones Act. The bill aims to provide more shipping options and competition for these non-contiguous parts of the United States.
Latest Action
Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.
AI Summary
Plain-English explanation of this bill
This bill would allow foreign-flag freight vessels to transport goods between U.S. ports in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories. Currently, only U.S.-built and mostly U.S.-owned and crewed vessels can do this domestic 'coastwise' trade under the Jones Act. The bill aims to provide more shipping options and competition for these non-contiguous parts of the United States.
Last updated: 12/29/2025
Official Summary
Congressional Research Service summary
<p><strong>Noncontiguous Shipping Relief Act of 2023</strong></p><p>This bill establishes a limited exception to coastwise laws to allow foreign-flag freight vessels to transport merchandise domestically to or from a port in the noncontiguous United States. The bill also addresses various issues related to foreign-flag freight vessels engaged in coastwise trade (i.e., domestic waterborne trade between U.S. ports). </p><p>Under the coastwise laws, commonly known as the Jones Act, a freight vessel may not transport merchandise between U.S. ports unless it is U.S.-built, at least 75% owned by U.S. citizens, and mostly crewed by U.S. citizens. The bill authorizes qualifying foreign-flag vessels to transport merchandise between (1) a port in the contiguous United States and a port in the noncontiguous United States (i.e., Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or a U.S. territory or possession); or (2) two ports in the noncontiguous United States. </p><p>Under the bill, all foreign-flag freight vessels operating in U.S. coastwise trade must comply with the (1) minimum international labor standards applicable to U.S. seafarers, and (2) same environmental standards that apply to U.S. vessels.</p><p>The bill authorizes such operators to participate in the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation program on behalf of masters and crew members they employ.</p><p>The bill also requires foreign-flag vessel owners and operators engaging in coastwise trade to identify an agent for service of process, abide by U.S. tax and other laws, and maintain specified documentation on board. Additionally, lawsuits against such vessels alleging personal injury or death must be brought in U.S. district court. 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Key Points
Main provisions of the bill
Establishes a limited exception to the Jones Act to allow foreign-flag freight vessels to transport goods between ports in the non-contiguous U.S. (like Alaska and Hawaii) and between those non-contiguous ports
Requires foreign-flag vessels engaged in coastwise trade to comply with minimum international labor standards and environmental rules for U.S. vessels
Allows foreign-flag vessel operators to participate in the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation program
How This Impacts Americans
Potential effects on citizens and communities
This bill would primarily impact businesses, consumers, and workers in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories by potentially increasing shipping options and competition, which could lower costs. Domestic shipping companies and U.S. merchant mariners might face more competition from foreign-flag vessels, though the bill aims to maintain labor and environmental protections.
Policy Areas
Primary Policy Area
Transportation and Public Works
Scope & Jurisdiction
Jurisdiction Level
federal
Congressional Session
119th Congress
Citation Reference
2588, 119th Congress (2025). "Improving Reporting to Prevent Hate Act of 2025". Source: Voter's Right Platform. https://votersright.org/bills/118-hr-2588
