The American Waterways Operators, the national trade association of the American tugboat, towboat and barge industry, today released the following statement on the Trump Administration’s announcement of its decision to extend the Jones Act waiver currently in effect for an additional 90 days, beginning August 17:
Arlington, VA, February 18, 2026 – The American Chemistry Council (ACC) and the American Waterways Operators (AWO) today announced the renewal of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) that reaffirms a shared commitment between the chemical industry and the U.S. tugboat, towboat, and barge industry to enhance safety, environmental protection, and security through Responsible Care® and AWO’s Responsible Carrier Program® (RCP).
In this inaugural season five episode of Maritime Nation, Admiral Foggo moderates a deep dive into the Jones Act and its central role in U.S. national security, economic sovereignty, and control of America’s waterways. Joined by subject matter experts Sara Fuentes and AWO President & CEO, Jennifer Carpenter, the discussion moves beyond the familiar trade debate to examine the Jones Act as strategic infrastructure.
