US extends comment period for proposed Jones Act modifications

(WASHINGTON) — On Jan. 18, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) published in the Customs Bulletin (Vol. 51, No. 3, at p. 1), a notice of proposed modification and revocation of ruling letters relating to CBP’s application of the Jones Act, providing for comments to be submitted on or before Feb. 17. CBP will be extending the comment period to April 18 and will also seek comments on whether a further extension of the comment period beyond April 18 is warranted.

CBP is seeking comment on a proposal to revise the agency’s position that “vessel equipment” carried between two domestic points is not considered “merchandise” that the Jones Act requires to be carried on U.S.-flag vessels. CBP’s rulings on “vessel equipment” included a controversial decision in 2009 that a subsea assembly known in the oil industry as a “Christmas tree” was vessel equipment when transported by a construction vessel specializing in equipment installation.

To comment, email CBP-Publication Response@cbp.dhs.gov. 

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By Professional Mariner Staff