What to know about the Jones Act as the Trump administration unveils a 60-day waiver - PBS

The Trump administration has announced a 60-day waiver of the Jones Act, a federal law that restricts maritime shipping between U.S. ports to American-built and American-owned vessels. The Jones Act, enacted in 1920, significantly limits foreign competition in domestic shipping and has long been a subject of debate between those who argue it protects American maritime interests and those who contend it raises shipping costs for consumers and businesses. The waiver allows foreign vessels to temporarily transport goods between U.S. ports, a move that could lower shipping costs but faces opposition from the American maritime industry, which argues such waivers undermine domestic shipbuilding and employment. The administration's action signals a shift toward prioritizing lower transportation costs, though it remains unclear whether the waiver will be extended beyond the initial 60-day period or become permanent policy.