Christopher Rosario

House Joint Resolution No. 9 Memorializing Congress to Amend the Jones Act to Improve Economic and Trade Relations Between The State Of Connecticut And Puerto Rico passed the Commerce Committee and will now head to the House Floor for a vote. The resolution calls upon the Congress of the United States to pass legislation to exempt Puerto Rico from the Jones Act.

I want to thank my colleagues on the Commerce Committee for recognizing the importance of this resolution and supporting its advancement to the House floor. With today's uncertainty coming from Washington, Connecticut must lead the way in advocating for policies that support our communities and drive down energy costs. Connecticut residents and the people of Puerto Rico should not bear the consequences of outdated policies that drive up the cost of living. This resolution sends a clear message that we stand in support of sensible reforms to bring relief to our communities.

The Jones Act, officially known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, has had a significant impact on Puerto Rico by mandating that all goods transported between U.S. ports—including those to and from Puerto Rico—be carried on ships that are U.S.-built, U.S.-owned, and U.S.-crewed. 

This requirement leads to increased shipping costs and hinders trade. As a result, Puerto Rico is limited to a smaller pool of U.S.-flagged vessels for transporting goods between the island and the U.S. mainland. Consequently, these restrictions drive up shipping costs, making goods more expensive for both consumers and businesses in Puerto Rico.

HJ9 will now move to the House floor for further consideration. Deputy Speaker Rosario remains committed to working with legislative leaders, stakeholders, and members of Connecticut’s congressional delegation to push for change.