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HR 2035

American Cargo for American Ships Act

119th Congress Introduced by Salud Carbajal and 1 co-sponsor

HR 2035 mandates that all federal cargo be shipped on U.S.-flagged vessels, boosting the maritime industry and creating jobs by ensuring 100% cargo preference.

Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
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Bill Summary · HR 2035

Summary of HR 2035: American Cargo for American Ships Act

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: HR 2035
  • Title: American Cargo for American Ships Act
  • Introduced: March 11, 2025
  • Status: Received in the Senate on June 10, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
  • Primary Sponsor: Rep. Salud O. Carbajal
  • Cosponsor: Rep. Mike Ezell

Purpose of the Legislation

The American Cargo for American Ships Act aims to amend Title 46 of the United States Code. Its primary objective is to mandate that all cargoes procured, furnished, or financed by the Department of Transportation (DOT) must be transported exclusively on privately-owned commercial vessels registered in the United States. This legislation seeks to bolster the U.S. maritime industry by ensuring that federal cargo is carried on American-flagged ships.

Key Provisions

  • Cargo Preference: The bill establishes a 100% cargo preference for all cargo associated with the DOT, expanding upon the existing Cargo Preference Act of 1954, which currently requires only 50% of government-generated cargo to be transported on U.S.-flagged vessels.
  • Strengthening Maritime Industry: By mandating the use of American vessels for federal cargo, the bill aims to enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of the U.S. maritime sector.

Background and Need for Legislation

Historically, the Military Cargo Preference Act of 1904 required that military cargo be transported on U.S.-flagged vessels. However, civilian cargo transported by federal agencies has not been afforded the same level of protection, leading to a significant portion of such cargo being shipped on foreign vessels. This legislation addresses this gap, aiming to protect American jobs and promote the domestic shipping industry.

Legislative History

  • Committee Review: The bill was reviewed by the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and was reported favorably without amendments on April 2, 2025.
  • House Passage: HR 2035 passed the House on June 9, 2025, with a vote of 373-14 under suspension of the rules, indicating broad bipartisan support.

Impact

  • Affected Parties: The legislation will primarily impact the U.S. maritime industry, including shipowners, operators, and workers in the shipping sector. It is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic activity within the industry.
  • Federal Agencies: All federal agencies involved in the procurement and transportation of goods will need to comply with the new cargo preference requirements.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill is currently in the Senate, having been referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for further consideration.
  • The timeline for further action in the Senate remains to be determined.

This summary provides an overview of HR 2035, highlighting its intent, provisions, and potential impacts on the U.S. maritime industry and federal procurement practices.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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