Noncontiguous Shipping Relief Act of 2024

This bill, titled the "Noncontiguous Shipping Relief Act of 2024," aims to permit certain foreign-flagged vessels to engage in the transportation of merchandise within noncontiguous U.S. trade routes. It introduces a Noncontiguous Trade Exemption , allowing "foreign qualified freight vessels" to operate in these routes, provided they meet specific criteria such as not being U.S.-built, being registered in a foreign country, and employing U.S. citizens as required. The legislation amends existing provisions in title 46, United States Code, to facilitate this change, including adjustments to coastwise endorsements and rules governing the foreign transfer of vessels. It also modifies citizenship requirements for corporations, partnerships, and associations operating these specific foreign qualified freight vessels. Furthermore, the bill addresses labor provisions by establishing jurisdiction for injury claims against foreign employers and allowing employers to participate in the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. It mandates that all vessels operating in U.S. coastwise trade, regardless of documentation, adhere to minimum international labor standards for seafarers and comply with all applicable U.S. and international environmental standards . Finally, the Act imposes requirements on non-citizen entities that irregularly engage in domestic coastwise trade, obliging them to name an agent for process, comply with U.S. laws, and post specific documentation aboard their vessels.