Although I do think that elements of the Jones Act make sense to repeal (the shipbuilding aspects are an example of something that has really bad outcomes on the whole), I think there are also aspects that ought to be retained and enhanced.
It is true that foreign owned vessels can't move goods between US ports. These vessels sail under flags of convenience and are crewed by poorly treated Filipino sailors earning a pittance. Do we really want to move _more_ shipping to them?
It seems appropriate to me that cargo between US ports should be effectively regulated. I would hate for the outcome of a repeal to be yet more abusive labor practices.
It is true that foreign owned vessels can't move goods between US ports. These vessels sail under flags of convenience and are crewed by poorly treated Filipino sailors earning a pittance. Do we really want to move _more_ shipping to them?
It seems appropriate to me that cargo between US ports should be effectively regulated. I would hate for the outcome of a repeal to be yet more abusive labor practices.