Noncontiguous Shipping Competition Act

The "Noncontiguous Shipping Competition Act" seeks to amend title 46, United States Code, by creating an exemption for certain noncontiguous trade from the existing coastwise laws . This change would permit vessels not qualified under current coastwise regulations to transport goods on routes connecting the U.S. mainland with noncontiguous territories. The exemption would apply unless specific conditions are met, ensuring that it only takes effect where competition is limited. These conditions require that at least three independent owners or operators of coastwise-qualified vessels regularly serve the route, with each transporting a minimum of 20 percent of the goods volume. The bill's intent is to foster greater competition and potentially lower shipping costs for goods transported to and from noncontiguous U.S. regions.