American Waterways Operators Respond to Extended Jones Act Waiver

The American Waterways Operators Responds to Jones Act Waiver Extension

On August 10, 2026, the American Waterways Operators (AWO), the national trade association representing the American tugboat, towboat, and barge industry, issued a statement regarding the Trump Administration's recent decision to extend the waiver for the Jones Act. This waiver, initially set to address certain procurement needs, has now been extended for another 90 days starting from August 17.

In their statement, AWO highlighted the discussions and changes that stemmed from dialogues with Administration officials, specifically noting the requirement for the Department of War to consult with the Maritime Administration about available Jones Act-compliant vessels. Furthermore, the scope of commodities eligible for the waiver was narrowed. However, despite these changes, AWO expressed significant dissatisfaction with the waiver's extension.

According to the organization, the waiver's extension contradicted the substantial evidence that had emerged over the past five months, indicating that it was not necessitated by military requirements—which is the standard outlined by law. AWO pointed out that the waiver failed to reduce gasoline prices for American consumers and, more concerningly, that it permitted foreign vessels, including those affiliated with geopolitical adversaries like China and Russia, to take jobs away from American workers.

AWO's message emphasized that their advocacy efforts are far from over. The organization is poised to engage further with both the Trump Administration and Congress to ensure rigorous scrutiny of any requests from foreign vessels seeking to benefit from the waiver. Their goal is to ascertain that such requests stem from genuine national defense needs that cannot be met by qualified U.S. vessels. Additionally, AWO stressed the necessity for foreign vessels operating within U.S. domestic trade to comply fully with all relevant U.S. laws, including tax, immigration, labor, and environmental regulations.

The AWO elaborated on their mission, stating that they serve as an advocate and resource for promoting safe, sustainable, and efficient operations across America's waterways, oceans, and coastal regions. The industry is integral to national security and supply chain logistics, facilitating the movement of commerce across U.S. inland and intercoastal waters, as well as the Atlantic, Pacific, and Gulf Coasts, and the Great Lakes.

For those interested in understanding the pivotal role that waterway transportation plays in the U.S. economy, further details can be found on AWO's official website. This discourse sheds light on the intricate balance between national defense, economic implications, and the need for vigilant oversight of maritime operations in the U.S.

For more information, visit: www.americanwaterways.com