Trump Extends Jones Act Waiver 90 Days For Foreign Ships Moving Energy, Fertilizers

President Donald Trump extended a waiver on Monday allowing foreign ships to transport energy products and fertilizers between U.S. Ports for an additional 90 days. The waiver, first implemented on March 17 to help oil and refined fuel shipments and ease price pressures following the start of the war with Iran, will take effect again on August 17. The extension suggests the U.S. Anticipates continued economic pressure as the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route for oil and natural gas, remains effectively closed due to the conflict. Under this extension, the Pentagon will coordinate with the Maritime Administration to determine which voyages qualify for exemption from the Jones Act, the 1920 maritime law. The waiver applies only to energy-related cargo and agriculture-linked commodities such as fertilizers and soybean oil. White House spokeswoman Taylor Rogers stated the administration extended the waiver "to ensure our military and key industries maintain uninterrupted access to critical resources," Adding that the waiver has increased domestic deliveries of gasoline, diesel and jet fuel.