Trump extends and narrows US Jones Act shipping waiver

President Donald Trump has extended a Jones Act waiver for 90 days, permitting foreign-flagged ships to transport oil and other commodities between U.S. ports. However, the White House narrowed the waiver's scope following arguments from shipbuilders and Congressional allies that the policy undermined the domestic maritime industry. This decision reflects the ongoing tension between the goal of reducing fuel costs and the necessity of protecting domestic maritime jobs within current U.S. economic policies.