Houses passes amendment reinforcing Jones Act requirements for offshore renewables

Image (C) Architect of the Capitol

The U.S. House of Representatives has passed an amendment by Congressman John Garamendi (D-Calif.) to the “Clean Economy Jobs and Innovation Act” (H.R. 4447) that clarifies that the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act applies to lease sales for non-fossil fuel energy sources such as wind power, hydrokinetic, or ocean thermal energy conversion.

Congressman Garamendi says his amendment will enforce Jones Act requirements for all offshore renewable energy production and strengthen the domestic maritime industry.

“Offshore wind development will play a critical role in our nation’s transition to a clean energy economy,” Garamendi said. “Demand for offshore wind development in federal waters is strong, and Congress must act to ensure this burgeoning industry abides by federal laws and regulations including the Jones Act so we have the strongest possible labor and environmental protections.

“My commonsense amendment simply clarifies that all existing requirements that govern offshore oil and natural gas extraction also apply to renewables. This will enable our domestic maritime industry to support the renewable energy industry and provide a critical economic stimulus for our nation.

Garamendi served as Deputy Secretary of the Interior during the Clinton Administration and was the top Democrat on the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation from 2013-2018.

The text of the amendment can be accessed HERE.