American Petroleum First Act

H.R. 8021, the American Petroleum First Act, would modify federal maritime law to exempt certain vessels that transport crude oil and petroleum products from specific documentation and coastwise endorsement requirements. Currently, U.S. maritime law restricts which vessels can transport goods between U.S. ports, requiring special documentation and endorsements. This bill would create an exception for vessels engaged in crude oil and petroleum product transportation, allowing them to operate under different rules than currently permitted. The practical effect would be to streamline regulations for the oil and petroleum shipping industry, potentially reducing compliance costs and administrative burdens for companies transporting these products between U.S. ports. The bill has been introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, but has not yet advanced further in the legislative process.