June 11th, 2010

Jones Act of 1920 Barring BP Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill 2010 Cleanup.  The Jones Act of 1920 is formally named the Merchant Marine act of 1920 and it’s becoming something that is being talked about in the wake of the Gulf oil spill.  The Act requires that ships that do business within the US be staffed with at least 75% American Citizens.  In addition, ships that operate within the US have heavy restrictions placed on foreign manufacture.

The act also has provisions providing for payment of injuries should someone on a ship become injured.

Back in the day, this law was made in order to protect the American seaman. Now, it’s becoming a nuisance during the oil spill cleanup efforts. There are skimmer boats that wish to help clean up the oil, but the problem is they aren’t owned and operated in the US.  Therefore, under the Jones Act, they cannot work.

Congress may repeal Jones Act of 1920 if needed for cleanup of the oil spill.  Do you think they should stipulate that the Jones Act is only repealed for purposes of oil spill assistance and cleanup, or is this law outdated?