Jones Act Circumvention
Alabama Senator Richard Shelby seeks waiver of Jones Act for U.S. Navy
Alabama Senator Shelby [pictured above] has introduced S.1197, which would amend the Jones Act and allow foreign vessels to be hired to move U.S. Navy equipment between domestic shipyards.
The amendment would allow for a general coastwise waiver for all vessels owned by a contractor or subcontractor providing supplies or services under a shipbuilding or ship repair contract.
Essentially, this means foreign shipbuilders operating in the U.S. can deploy their foreign flag tugs and barges to move modules, ships and equipment to another shipyard.
What this amendment would do is circumvent the Jones Act. The vote on this piece of legislation will take place no later than next Thursday.
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