H.R. 7084: Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2026

This bill, titled the Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2026, aims to amend existing U.S. laws regarding the entry of vessels into American ports and the operation of vessels within U.S. navigable waters, particularly in the context of protecting U.S. property abroad.

Key Provisions

• The bill outlines conditions under which vessels may enter U.S. ports or operate in U.S. navigable waters, particularly focusing on instances of nationalization or expropriation by foreign governments.
• It allows the President to designate specific ports, harbors, or marine terminals if the government of a foreign trade partner has nationalized or expropriated these U.S. interests. This is intended to provide a formal process for protecting American property interests abroad.
• If the conditions for designation are met (such as ownership being taken by a foreign government), the President can implement restrictions on vessels from that country operating in the U.S.
• Designated ports can be removed from this status if the foreign government returns the property, provides compensation, or resolves the issue satisfactorily to the President.

Operational Changes

The amendment to the existing law would:

• Allow vessels to enter U.S. ports if they are responding to emergencies or have owner authorization for navigation.
• Change the legal language concerning the definitions of various vessels and establish clearer guidelines for their operation in U.S. waters.
• Ensure compliance with international laws protecting American interests abroad by setting strict criteria for operational permissions involving designated ports.

Enforcement and Oversight

The bill includes provisions for:

• Regular assessments of the conditions of foreign ports where American interests have been impacted, enabling timely responses to changes in those conditions.
• Establishing a structure for monitoring compliance by foreign governments with respect to American property ownership in their jurisdiction.

Objectives of the Bill

The overall goal of the legislation is to reinforce and protect U.S. investments and property overseas by providing the federal government with tools to respond to potential threats posed by foreign governments that could undermine U.S. economic interests.

Relevant Companies

• MCD - McDonald's Corporation: As a global brand, McDonald's has operations in many countries and may face challenges related to nationalization or expropriation in foreign markets.
• CVX - Chevron Corporation: Operating in the oil and gas industry globally, Chevron could be affected by foreign entities expropriating their assets or infrastructure.
• XOM - ExxonMobil Corporation: Similar to Chevron, ExxonMobil has significant international operations and could potentially face expropriation risks.