LONG accused of protectionist inclinations, the Trump Administration is now easing US Customs rules that the Offshore Marine Services Association (OMSA) says will weaken the Jones Act and outsource jobs in the oil, gas and offshore wind farms industries, reports the American Journal of Transportation.
'On behalf American mariners and shipyard workers, we are disappointed that the US Customs is creating potential loopholes for foreign vessels and crews to operate in American waters and take the jobs of American vessels and workers,' said president OMSA.
The rules are due to take effect in February. The US Customs and Border Protection action is the fourth time that changes have been mounted to weaken the Jones Act since President Trump assumed office said the report.
The US maritime industry news service gCaptain reported: 'The US Customs and Border Protection has decided to revoke a number of previous letter rulings related to the enforcement of the Jones Act that could result in loopholes with major implications for the U.S. offshore industry.'
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'On behalf American mariners and shipyard workers, we are disappointed that the US Customs is creating potential loopholes for foreign vessels and crews to operate in American waters and take the jobs of American vessels and workers,' said president OMSA.
The rules are due to take effect in February. The US Customs and Border Protection action is the fourth time that changes have been mounted to weaken the Jones Act since President Trump assumed office said the report.
The US maritime industry news service gCaptain reported: 'The US Customs and Border Protection has decided to revoke a number of previous letter rulings related to the enforcement of the Jones Act that could result in loopholes with major implications for the U.S. offshore industry.'
WORLD SHIPPING