Noncontiguous Shipping Relief Act of 2024

This bill would let certain foreign-flag cargo ships carry goods between the U.S. mainland and places like Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories, and also between two ports in those areas. These ships would have to qualify under set rules and get U.S. documentation before operating. All vessels in this trade would have to follow minimum international labor standards and U.S. environmental standards. Foreign vessel owners would also have to follow U.S. laws, name a U.S. agent for legal notices, and keep key paperwork on board. Crew injury or death lawsuits would be heard in a U.S. district court near where the incident happened .

The goal is to open more shipping options for noncontiguous parts of the United States while holding all ships to the same safety, labor, and environmental rules .

• Who is affected: People and businesses in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories; shippers; port workers; and foreign ship operators that want to serve these routes.
• What changes: Qualifying foreign-flag cargo ships could move goods on these routes if they meet U.S.-set labor and environmental standards and get U.S. documentation. Operators must follow U.S. tax and environmental laws, name a legal agent, and keep ownership and trip records on board .
• Worker protections: All vessels in this trade must meet minimum international labor standards; foreign operators may use the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation program for their crews; crew injury cases go to nearby U.S. district courts .
• When: If enacted, the change would apply to qualifying ships once they obtain the required U.S. documentation from the Department of Transportation.