Donald Trump administration pushes Jones Act exemption as states sue over import tariffs

The U.S. government plans to extend an exemption to the nearly century‑old Jones Act, allowing foreign‑built ships to transport fuel between U.S. ports. The move is intended to lower gasoline prices, though experts say it may only shave a few cents per gallon. Bob McNally, head of Rapidan Energy Group, warned that the impact will be minimal. President Donald Trump criticized major oil companies, saying “That doesn’t please me,” and urged them to keep fuel costs low.

At the same time, 25 Democratic‑led states have filed lawsuits challenging recent import tariffs of 10‑12.5% imposed on goods from 60 trading partners. The states allege the tariffs are arbitrary and use forced‑labor concerns as a pretext. If a New York federal court overturns the measures, a key component of Trump’s trade agenda in his second term could be undone.