• Bipartisan Legislation Passed: The US House of Representatives has passed the bipartisan American Cargo for American Ships Act.
• Strengthens US Cargo Preference: The bill aims to increase cargo preference for US Department of Transportation cargoes to 100 percent, supporting US-flagged ships in international trade.
• Economic and National Security Benefits: Proponents emphasize that the legislation will strengthen the US economy, create jobs, protect supply chains, and enhance national security by reducing reliance on foreign vessels.
• Addresses Decline in US-Flagged Ships: The act seeks to reverse the recent decline in the number of US-flagged vessels engaged in foreign trade, building on existing cargo preference laws.

t’s truly exciting news for the American maritime industry and for the nation’s economic strength. The US House of Representatives has passed the fantastic bipartisan American Cargo for American Ships Act, a vital piece of legislation that is set to invigorate US-flagged shipping and strengthen our global trade capabilities. This bill is a beacon of support, aiming to reverse the recent decline in American ships involved in international commerce, ensuring a brighter future for countless American workers and our vital supply chains.

This legislation, now advancing to the US Senate, is all about championing American enterprise. It thoughtfully mandates that all cargo procured and furnished by the Department of Transportation will be transported on privately-owned commercial vessels flying the US flag. This is a wonderful commitment to nurturing our domestic shipping fleet, creating valuable jobs, and building a more resilient economy right here at home.

Leaders like Ranking Member Salud Carbajal and Rep. Mike Ezell are enthusiastically highlighting the numerous benefits. They emphasize how this act will boost our economy, secure jobs, and fortify our supply chain against external threats. By ensuring that taxpayer-funded cargo moves on American ships, the bill actively promotes self-reliance and gives our dedicated mariners a strong fighting chance against foreign competitors. This positive step reflects a shared vision for a more robust, secure, and prosperous America on the high seas.

The American Cargo for American Ships Act proposes to increase cargo preference for all US Department of Transportation cargoes to a full 100 percent, building on the foundation of the Cargo Preference Act of 1954. This strategic move will undoubtedly propel the growth of our US-flagged fleet, ensuring that American goods are carried by American ships, fostering national security and economic vitality for years to come.