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Title 46: Shipping

Maritime law, the Jones Act, vessel documentation, seaman protections, shipping regulations, and coastwise trade.

7 chapters · 456 sections · 3 key sections available

Key Sections (3)

§ 30101Jones Act

Jones Act — Extension of Seamen's Remedies to Certain Other Workers

The Jones Act allows seamen injured on the job to sue their employer for negligence. Even slight employer negligence is enough to recover damages, and the seaman has the right to a jury trial.

labortransportationEffective: Jun 5, 1920
active
§ 55102Jones Act — Cabotage

Jones Act — Coastwise Trade Restrictions

Goods shipped between U.S. ports must travel on ships that are American-built, American-owned, American-crewed, and flying the U.S. flag. This is the cabotage provision of the Jones Act.

transportationbusinessEffective: Jun 5, 1920
active
§ 8103

Citizenship and Naval Reserve Requirements for Vessel Crew

U.S.-flagged vessel captains and officers must be American citizens, and at least 75% of the crew must understand orders in English. Unlicensed crew must be citizens or permanent residents.

transportationlaborEffective: Oct 1, 1983
active