What is Jones Act (maritime area)?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merchant_Marine_Act_of_1920
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merchant_Marine_Act_of_1920
Economics made this legislation favor folks who wanted to live off of tax dollars. There is still a lot of support for such transportation, Amtrak being an example on land. Thankfully, it does not apply to air carriers in the US.
The Jones Act, as the Merchant Marine Act was passed to support a strong national merchant marine, requiring that ships transporting goods on U.S. territorial waters to be built, owned and operated by U.S companies. The majority of the crew also must consist of U.S. citizens.
Also there is a section of the Jones Act that gives seaman the right for trial by jury for injury compensation claims as opposed to Worker Compensation laws on land where you cannot sue your employer (there are few exception).
The Jones Act, formally known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, is a federal law in the United States that regulates maritime commerce in U.S. waters and between U.S. ports. It is named after its sponsor, Senator Wesley Jones.
To understand what the Jones Act entails, you can follow these steps:
1. Research the background: Start by looking into the historical context and the reasons behind the Jones Act's enactment. It was originally designed to protect the interests of the U.S. maritime industry after World War I.
2. Analyze its provisions: Read the actual text of the Jones Act to understand its specific provisions. The law covers various aspects, including cabotage laws (restriction on foreign vessels in domestic trade), vessel registration requirements, crewing rules (mandates the use of U.S. citizens and permanent residents for certain roles on vessels), and liability provisions.
3. Explore its impact: Investigate the impact of the Jones Act on the maritime industry, the domestic economy, national security, and the cost of goods transported by water. Scholars, experts, and case studies can provide valuable insights.
4. Examine controversies and debates: The Jones Act has been a subject of debate and controversy. Consider reading different perspectives, including criticisms and arguments in favor of the law. This will help you gain a comprehensive understanding of its implications.
5. Keep up with recent developments: Stay informed about any changes or challenges to the Jones Act. Rulings, legal cases, or proposed amendments can provide a deeper understanding of the current state of the law.
By following these steps, you can gain a thorough understanding of the Jones Act and its significance in maritime commerce within the United States.