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SJR 11

Urging the United States Congress to enact a Jones Act waiver to facilitate transportation of domestic liquefied natural gas between ports in the state.

34th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Robert Myers

Alaska urges Congress to exempt domestic LNG shipments between its ports from the Jones Act to reduce transportation costs and enable greater resource development.

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Bill Summary · SJR 11

Legislative bill overview

SJR 11 is a Alaska state resolution urging the U.S. Congress to waive the Jones Act specifically for liquefied natural gas (LNG) transportation between Alaska ports. The Jones Act requires that goods shipped between U.S. ports be transported on U.S.-flagged, U.S.-built, and U.S.-crewed vessels. This resolution seeks an exemption to that requirement for domestic LNG commerce.

Why is this important

Alaska has significant natural gas resources but limited domestic infrastructure to move LNG between its ports, potentially constraining economic development and energy independence. A Jones Act waiver could reduce transportation costs and increase the competitiveness of Alaska LNG exports and inter-state commerce. However, this directly conflicts with federal maritime protections designed to support domestic shipping industries and shipbuilding.

Potential points of contention

  • Maritime industry opposition: U.S. shipping companies, shipbuilders, and maritime unions oppose Jones Act waivers as they protect domestic shipping jobs and guarantee cargo for American vessels
  • Precedent concerns: Granting sector-specific waivers could invite other states/industries to seek exemptions, potentially eroding the entire Jones Act framework
  • Federal authority and scope: Congress must approve this waiver; it's unclear whether a narrow LNG exemption aligns with broader energy policy goals or creates regulatory inconsistency

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

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