A federal judge upheld the Jones Act, affirming its constitutionality and supporting the US maritime industry and cabotage laws.
A federal judge has dismissed a constitutional challenge to the Jones Act, delivering a win for the US maritime industry and the Trump Administration's defense of cabotage laws, reported Ventura, California's gCaptain.
Chief Judge James E. Boasberg of the US District Court for the District of Columbia rejected claims from Hawaii-based Koloa Rum Company that the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 violates the Constitution's Due Process and Port Preference clauses. The distillery, backed by the Pacific Legal Foundation, argued that the law unfairly burdens Hawaii and Alaska.
Judge Boasberg ruled that the Jones Act is neutral legislation, applying uniformly across transport modes, including aviation. He stated that the statute reflects a centuries-old tradition of cabotage laws and does not create preferences for one state's ports over another.
The court found that the law satisfies rational-basis review, citing government interests in maintaining a strong merchant marine, ensuring vessels are available for military use, and supporting American maritime employment.
Maritime groups welcomed the ruling. Jennifer Carpenter, president of the American Maritime Partnership, praised the Trump Administration for defending the Jones Act and stated that the decision reaffirms its constitutionality and importance.
Koloa Rum filed the suit in February 2025, claiming that the law inflates costs of importing supplies and shipping products to the mainland. CEO Bob Gunter said it hurts Hawaii residents as well as businesses.
The case drew national attention as a rare direct attempt to overturn the statute. Supporters noted a 2025 review by Seafarers Rights International found that 105 nations, covering more than 85 percent of coastlines, maintain similar cabotage protections.
With the challenge dismissed, the ruling strengthens the Jones Act's legal footing and signals that courts remain reluctant to dismantle a cornerstone of US maritime policy.
