The Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA) are crucial legislation designed to protect those working on the sea and along the docks. The Jones Act requires goods moved between U.S. ports to travel on U.S.-built, owned and operated ships, ensuring American sailors have jobs and safe work conditions. The LHWCA offers compensation and medical care to workers injured while working on navigable waters or nearby areas where workers load, unload, repair or build ships.
Close Agency Loopholes to the Jones Act of 2023
Congress passed the “Close Agency Loopholes to the Jones Act of 2023” in late 2024. This law aims to stop agencies from giving out waivers and exceptions to the Jones Act. Agencies give these waivers and exceptions mainly for national defense needs, such as during natural disasters when foreign ships might need to bring essential supplies. They only provide these rare waivers when U.S. ships aren’t ready, or there aren’t enough of them.
Implications for maritime workers
This change strengthened the Jones Act, requiring goods moved between U.S. ports to travel on U.S.-built, owned and operated ships. For sailors and maritime workers, this means:
- Increased job security: Stronger rules protect jobs by limiting foreign ships.
- Enhanced safety standards: U.S. ships must follow stricter safety rules, making work safer.
These changes show how the Jones Act affects jobs and prioritizes safety.
Inflation Adjustment Act for 2025
The Department of Labor’s final rule, starting January 16, 2025, changes penalties under the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). For example, the fine for late reporting of injury or death went up from $29,221 to $29,980.
Implications for maritime workers
These changes match rising living costs and help ensure fines work as intended. For maritime workers, this means:
- Timely reporting: Companies have more reason to report injuries and deaths quickly, helping workers get benefits sooner.
- Increased compensation: Updated fines may improve compliance and higher worker benefits.
Knowing these changes can help you protect your rights and get your benefits.
Taking action
You need to know these new changes to protect your rights as a maritime worker. If you have further questions or need legal guidance, consider contacting a qualified lawyer.