HR 4839

The Merchant Marine Allies Partnership Act would allow vessels from allied foreign countries, owned by nationals of those countries, or crewed by their nationals to participate in certain coastwise trade within the United States. It establishes a ‘Foreign Ally Shipping Registry’ to track eligible countries and vessels, and provides the Secretary of Transportation with the authority to authorize such trade for up to five years, subject to renewal. The bill also includes provisions to exempt vessels from certain U.S. crewing requirements and offers an exemption from duties on repairs made to documented vessels in allied foreign countries.