White House Considers Extending Jones Act Waiver Amid Rising Fuel Prices

The White House is considering extending the Jones Act waiver for up to 90 days, a decision aimed at alleviating the pressure on fuel prices driven by the conflict in Iran, according to sources familiar with the situation. This extension would temporarily suspend the requirement that goods transported between U.S. ports be carried on vessels constructed and crewed by Americans.

This measure, which would permit foreign-flagged vessels to transport fuel and other essential commodities more liberally, is intended to curb disruptions in the energy market sparked by ongoing war and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. A White House official confirmed that the extension is under review but refrained from providing details about the potential duration or the precise timing of the announcement.

Previously, President Trump had lifted Jones Act restrictions for 60 days beginning March 17, with the aim of diminishing the sharp rise in fuel prices by increasing shipments from the Gulf Coast to other maritime markets across the country.