Jones Act

The Jones Act, formally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a U.S. law that regulates maritime commerce. It requires that goods transported between U.S. ports be carried on ships that are American-built, owned, and crewed. This law aims to support the U.S. shipping industry and ensure national security by maintaining a robust merchant marine workforce. However, it has faced criticism for increasing shipping costs and limiting competition, particularly in non-contiguous U.S. regions like Hawaii and Puerto Rico, where reliance on maritime transport is essential.