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Trump Eases Gas Prices with 60-Day Jones Act Waiver

3/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a 60-day Jones Act waiver to ease gasoline prices amid the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran.
The waiver allows foreign-flagged vessels to move oil and other commodities between U.S. ports.
Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary, said the action will facilitate the flow of resources.
Gas prices have averaged $3.84 per gallon, up 86 cents since the war began.
Critics warn the move could displace American workers.

History

Historical Context

The Jones Act of 1920 mandated that only U.S.-flagged vessels transport goods between U.S. ports, safeguarding over 40,000 maritime jobs. Recently, President Trump issued a 60-day waiver allowing foreign vessels to transport oil amid rising gas prices, which surged by 86 cents to $3.84 per gallon. Critics warn this could jeopardize American jobs, reflecting ongoing economic and labor tensions.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump issued a 60-day Jones Act waiver to ease gasoline prices amid the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran.
The waiver allows foreign-flagged vessels to move oil and other commodities between U.S. ports.
Karoline Leavitt, White House press secretary, said the action will facilitate the flow of resources.
Gas prices have averaged $3.84 per gallon, up 86 cents since the war began.
Critics warn the move could displace American workers.

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