International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act of 2025

This bill would charge fees on cargo ships for the pollution they create, starting January 1, 2027. The EPA would collect a fee based on climate pollution from the fuel used on each voyage: $150 per metric ton of lifecycle CO2‑equivalent, with yearly increases for inflation plus 5%, and a higher rate (triple) for travel near the Arctic or Antarctic. It also adds separate fees for nitrogen oxides ($6.30/lb), sulfur dioxide ($18/lb), and fine particle pollution ($38.90/lb) from fuel burned in U.S. waters. Ships must report trip and fuel details every quarter; late payments face a 20% penalty that grows every 30 days. Importers whose goods were offloaded at a foreign port and are headed to the U.S. must also report and pay a prorated fee before their goods can enter. If a similar fee was paid to another country, the U.S. fee is reduced, and the carbon fee ends if a global U.N. program takes effect.

Money from these fees would fund cleaner ships and ports starting in 2029. The bill sets aside funds to replace or retrofit U.S. Jones Act ships to use batteries or low‑carbon fuels; electrify harbor craft and ferries; train workers; add air monitors at port boundaries and in nearby neighborhoods; support research and development for low‑carbon maritime fuels and clean shipping technology; and bolster clean ports, coastal security, and the Marine Debris Foundation.

• Who is affected: Cargo ship operators and importers with goods bound for the U.S.; owners of Jones Act vessels; ferry and harbor craft operators; port authorities; and communities near ports.
• What changes: New pollution fees and quarterly reporting; penalties for late payment; reduced fees if a foreign fee was paid; possible end to the carbon fee if a global program starts; and grants/loans for cleaner ships, ports, and workforce training.
• When: Reporting and fees begin January 1, 2027; grants and other funding begin in fiscal year 2029.