Temporary Exemption for Large Cruise Ships on Alaska-Washington Routes
This bill temporarily lifts restrictions on passenger transportation by large cruise ships (over 1,000 passengers) operating between ports in Alaska or between Alaska and Washington. This means vessels not qualified for domestic coastwise trade can now carry passengers on these key routes. The goal is to increase cruise availability and support the local economy, but this exemption will expire if a qualified domestic vessel begins offering similar services.
Key points
Increased Cruise Availability: Large cruise ships previously restricted from carrying passengers between US ports (e.g., Alaska-Alaska or Alaska-Washington) are now temporarily allowed to do so.
Support for Tourism: The change is intended to potentially boost tourism and economic benefits for Alaska and Washington by offering more travel options.
Temporary Nature: The exemption will expire if a vessel fully qualified for domestic coastwise trade begins offering regular passenger service on these routes.
Expired
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