H.R. 4839: Merchant Marine Allies Partnership Act

This bill, known as the Merchant Marine Allies Partnership Act, aims to allow certain foreign vessels from allied countries to participate in coastwise trade within the United States. Here’s how it works:

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important changes to existing laws regarding maritime trade:

• Eligibility for Coastwise Trade: The legislation amends the criteria for vessels to qualify for coastwise trade. Vessels built in countries recognized as allies by the United States can now be endorsed for coastwise operations if they meet specific conditions.
• Foreign Ally Shipping Registry: The bill establishes a Foreign Ally Shipping Registry, which will list countries considered allies for the purpose of coastwise trade. The Secretary of State will maintain this list and update it as necessary.
• Transportation Authorization: The Secretary of Transportation is given the authority to permit qualified foreign vessels to transport merchandise between points in the U.S., either directly or via foreign ports, for a period not exceeding five years, with the possibility of renewal.
• Citizenship and Credentialing Exemptions: The bill provides exemptions from certain crew citizenship requirements. Crews of qualified vessels will not have to meet U.S. citizenship standards if they are from allied countries.
• Revocation of Authorizations: If a vessel ceases to meet the qualifications during the authorization period, the Secretary must revoke its authorization. This applies particularly if the vessel's country is removed from the Foreign Ally Shipping Registry.

Impact on Ships from Allied Countries

Any vessel that is:

• Wholly owned by nationals or governments of allied countries, or a combination including U.S. nationals, and
• Flagged in the U.S. or an allied nation.

Such vessels will now have opportunities to participate in U.S. coastwise trade, promoting trade and economic relations with allies.

Registry Maintenance and Removal Procedures

The Secretary of Transportation, in consultation with the Coast Guard, will determine which countries qualify as allies. Countries can be removed from the registry if they no longer meet the criteria or upon a declaration of war by the U.S. against them. A 30-day notice is required before removal, except in cases of war where immediate removal is enacted.

Repair Duty Exemptions

The bill also includes provisions to exempt repair costs incurred in shipyards located in countries on the Foreign Ally Shipping Registry from certain duties, thus facilitating cheaper repairs for U.S.-documented vessels.

Conclusion of Key Changes

Overall, this bill aims to enhance the ability of vessels from allied nations to engage in U.S. trade and improve international maritime partnerships.

Relevant Companies

None found