Safeguarding American Tourism Act

This bill makes it easier for large cruise ships to run trips between U.S. ports. It exempts ships with 800 or more passenger beds from certain Passenger Vessel Services Act and Jones Act rules that normally limit coast‑to‑coast travel for foreign‑built or foreign‑flag vessels . It also changes how immigration officers handle temporary landing permits for foreign crew members, letting them stay for the length of a valid visa if the officer believes they will leave as planned, and allowing them to depart on a different ship or plane if needed . Other U.S. laws still apply unless they are specifically waived in this bill .

Supporters may say this could bring more cruise options, more visitors, and more spending in port cities. The bill focuses on very large ships and does not broadly change safety or other federal rules beyond the listed exemptions .

• Who is affected: Large cruise ships with 800+ passenger berths, their crews, and U.S. port communities .
• What changes: Exempts these ships from certain coastwise trade rules; updates crew landing permit rules tied to visa validity .
• When: The text does not include a specific start date; changes would take effect if and when the bill becomes law .