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Trump Considers Jones Act Waiver to Tackle Gas Prices

3/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump weighs a Jones Act waiver to ease gas prices amid the Iran conflict.
The White House says the move would maintain flow of energy products to ports.
Seven maritime unions oppose the waiver, arguing it would not reduce prices.
Analysts say the waiver could ease logistics but is unlikely to lower prices.
The United States plans to release 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

History

Historical Context

The Jones Act, enacted in 1920, mandates that goods transported between U.S. ports be carried on American-built ships. In 2022, President Trump considered waiving this act to alleviate rising gas prices amid the Iran conflict, facing opposition from maritime unions. This reflects ongoing debates over energy policy and national security, highlighting the tension between domestic shipping laws and economic pressures.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump weighs a Jones Act waiver to ease gas prices amid the Iran conflict.
The White House says the move would maintain flow of energy products to ports.
Seven maritime unions oppose the waiver, arguing it would not reduce prices.
Analysts say the waiver could ease logistics but is unlikely to lower prices.
The United States plans to release 172 million barrels from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

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