Trump pauses Jones Act to ease rising energy costs

President Trump issued a 60-day waiver of the Jones Act, a century-old maritime law that mandates all goods shipped between U.S. ports be carried on U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed, and U.S.-flagged vessels. The administration is using the temporary exemption to address rising energy costs by allowing foreign vessels to transport goods domestically, potentially lowering shipping expenses and increasing supply. The Jones Act has long been a target for critics who argue it inflates transportation costs; supporters contend it protects American maritime workers and shipbuilding. A 60-day waiver allows the administration to test the policy's impact on energy prices without permanently repealing the statute, which would require congressional action. The move signals the Trump administration's prioritization of immediate cost relief over protectionist maritime regulations.