Open America's Ports Act

This bill would end the rule that blocks most non‑U.S. cruise ships from carrying passengers directly between U.S. ports. It repeals the Passenger Vessel Services Act requirement, so passenger vessels could travel between U.S. ports without needing a foreign stop or U.S. build/ownership to do so . It also loosens related “Jones Act” documentation rules for passenger vessels, so those requirements would not apply when a ship is moving passengers between U.S. ports, whether directly or via a foreign port . The bill says these changes don’t excuse ships from other U.S. laws unless specifically stated in the bill .

It further adjusts crew citizenship and Navy Reserve rules so they would not apply to passenger vessels carrying people between U.S. ports, making it easier for more ships to operate these routes .

• Who is affected:
  • Travelers: could see more cruise and ferry options between U.S. ports.
  • Cruise and ferry operators: more flexibility to use non‑U.S. built or owned ships on domestic routes.
  • Ports and coastal communities: potential for increased passenger traffic and service options.