H.R. 4839In committeeSecurity & foreign affairs
Bill would let allied nations' ships haul cargo between US ports
Data as of July 11, 2026
The bill lets NATO and other allied countries' ships carry cargo between U.S. ports for up to five years, easing Jones Act rules.45-second read · 4 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill would allow the Secretary of Transportation to permit ships built in, owned by, or crewed by people from allied foreign countries to carry cargo between U.S. ports for up to five years at a time, renewable. The Secretary of State would maintain a "Foreign Ally Shipping Registry" automatically including NATO members, with removal possible if a country loses ally status or if Congress declares war on it. The bill also drops citizenship/licensing rules for allied crew members and exempts allied shipyard repairs from certain import duties.
Who does it affect?
Affects U.S. shipbuilders, shipping companies, and merchant mariners currently protected under the Jones Act, as well as shipyards and workers in allied (especially NATO) countries.
Why does it matter?
Loosening these rules could change competitive conditions in domestic waterborne shipping, potentially affecting costs and options for businesses and consumers who ship goods by water.
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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Official title
Merchant Marine Allies Partnership Act
- Introduced:
- August 1, 2025
- Latest action:
- August 2, 2025
Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
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