President Donald Trump has approved a three-month extension of a shipping exemption designed to help reduce energy costs across the nation, according to a White House announcement Friday.
The extension lengthens the current waiver by approximately 90 days beyond its scheduled May 17 expiration date, permitting international vessels to transport oil, fuel and fertilizer between American ports until mid-August. The move comes as the administration seeks to address climbing energy prices tied to ongoing conflict with Iran.
White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers verified Friday that Trump had authorized the extension.
“This waiver extension provides both certainty and stability for the U.S. and global economies,” Rogers said.
The Jones Act continues to create tension between competing economic interests and national security concerns. Those who support the legislation, including domestic shipbuilders, maritime labor unions and certain members of Congress, maintain the law plays a vital role in preserving America’s shipping sector and merchant marine fleet for military logistics and national defense purposes.
However, opponents of the act — which include energy companies, oil refiners and farming organizations — contend that mandating the use of American-built vessels with U.S. crews significantly increases transportation expenses and reduces available capacity, especially during supply chain interruptions, ultimately raising consumer prices for fuel and other essential products.
