Close Agency Loopholes to the Jones Act of 2023

HR 5991, "Close Agency Loopholes to the Jones Act of 2023," targets CBP's interpretive guidance that has created improper exemptions allowing foreign vessels to operate in U.S. coastwise trade contrary to the Jones Act. The bill requires CBP to revoke or modify numerous specific ruling letters that established exemptions for activities like pipe/cable laying, lifting operations, decommissioning, and research vessel classifications. It also establishes a new process for domestic parties to request and contest CBP's interpretations of the Jones Act and adds a prevailing wage requirement for foreign-owned vessels operating on the outer Continental Shelf. The bill aims to ensure foreign vessels comply with the Jones Act's restrictions on coastwise transportation of merchandise.