Bill > S2535

This bill, known as the "Protecting Jobs in American Ports Act", aims to modify existing maritime regulations by allowing passenger vessels not originally built in the United States to receive a coastwise endorsement, which is a legal certification that permits a vessel to transport passengers between U.S. ports. Specifically, the bill amends Section 12112(a)(2)(B) of Title 46 of the United States Code to add a new provision that allows a vessel to receive a coastwise endorsement if it transports passengers between U.S. ports directly or via a foreign port. The bill also repeals Section 12121 of the same title, which likely contained previous restrictions on such endorsements. Importantly, the bill includes a rule of construction that clarifies these changes do not exempt such vessels from other applicable U.S. laws, ensuring that while the vessel can now operate between U.S. ports, it must still comply with existing maritime regulations and safety standards. This modification could potentially increase operational flexibility for passenger vessel operators and potentially create more opportunities in U.S. maritime transportation.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2535/all-info