U.S. Senator Mike Lee introduced the Protecting Access to American Products Act on Mar. 12, aiming to reduce regulatory barriers for American manufacturers and energy producers by allowing flexibility from Jones Act shipping requirements. The legislation, also introduced in the House by Representative Ben Cline, seeks to enable American businesses to more easily transport goods between U.S. ports.
The issue is significant because current regulations under the Jones Act prevent some American-made products from being shipped domestically due to a lack of compliant vessels, which can force states and territories to import goods like liquefied natural gas (LNG) from foreign countries instead of sourcing them within the United States.
“Outdated regulations are forcing Americans to buy gas and other products from despotic regimes instead of our own producers,” said Senator Mike Lee. “America produces liquefied natural gas (LNG), but we can’t ship it to other American ports due to hundred-year-old red tape. States in need of LNG are forced to rely on Russia for their energy supply – a national security risk and lost opportunity for America’s economy. This bill will prioritize American manufacturing and energy dominance by allowing waivers for industries like LNG for whom the restrictions don’t make sense.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “In the interest of national defense, the White House is considering waiving the Jones Act for a limited period of time to ensure vital energy products and agricultural necessities are flowing freely to U.S. ports.” Congressman Ben Cline added, “Excessive red tape and outdated regulations are slowing the delivery of essential goods and making it harder for Americans to access products made right here at home… This legislation supports domestic manufacturing, strengthens American energy supply chains, and keeps U.S. products competitive with foreign imports while still protecting American maritime jobs. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Lee to deliver reforms that protect our domestic interests while putting American families and businesses first.”
The Jones Act, passed in 1920, requires all goods transported by water between U.S. ports be carried on vessels constructed, registered, and owned by U.S. citizens; however, there are currently no compliant ships capable of carrying certain goods such as LNG or livestock over some routes. As a result, regions like Massachusetts and Puerto Rico must import LNG from abroad rather than domestically—a situation that has economic implications estimated at tens of billions of dollars annually.
The proposed act would allow federal agencies to temporarily waive Jones Act requirements when no qualifying vessel is available after a good faith search by applicants. Waivers would be processed within 60 days; if denied, agencies must provide written explanations within two weeks or automatically grant temporary waivers if no decision is made in time.
According to the official website, U.S. Sen. Mike Lee maintains offices in Salt Lake City, St. George, Vernal, Utah, and Washington D.C., advocates for limited government and fiscal responsibility among other issues according to his office, represents all Utah residents as their senator according to his office, engages in legislative efforts addressing public safety and economic matters according to his office, and offers constituent services through multiple offices according to his office.
Observers say this legislation could have broad effects on domestic supply chains if enacted—potentially reducing reliance on foreign imports while supporting local industries.
