To provide an exemption from certain Jones Act restrictions for vessels that arrive at or depart from the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore, and for other purposes.
About This Bill
Committee
Latest Action · July 11, 2024
Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
This bill temporarily exempts vessels using the Port of Baltimore from certain Jones Act restrictions, which normally require ships operating in U.S. waters to be American-built, American-owned, and American-crewed. The exemption applies to any vessel arriving at or departing from the Helen Delich Bentley Port of Baltimore after the bill's enactment and remains in effect for five years. The measure aims to support Baltimore's recovery, likely in response to the March 2024 Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse that temporarily closed the port and disrupted shipping. By allowing foreign vessels greater access to the port, the bill seeks to restore cargo capacity and economic activity. The exemption is temporary and automatically expires five years after the law takes effect.
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