Press Releases

Today, Rep. Ben Cline (R-VA) introduced the Protecting Access to American Products Act, legislation aimed at streamlining the U.S. trade shipping process during times of supply chain strain and uncertainty. The bill amends current maritime law to ensure that products made in America are not prevented from reaching American markets. Further, it is designed to allow for administrative flexibility in circumstances where supply chain continuity is questionable. This is especially important for American energy producers, who at times face transportation barriers moving domestically produced oil and petroleum products between U.S. ports when no qualified vessel is available, potentially forcing reliance on foreign imports despite strong American production. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Excessive red tape and outdated regulations are slowing the delivery of essential goods and making it harder for Americans to access products made right here at home. The Protecting Access to American Products Act offers a commonsense, practical solution by streamlining the waiver process and helping ensure that American-made goods, including American energy products, can move across the country more easily. This legislation supports domestic manufacturing, strengthens American energy supply chains, and keeps U.S. products competitive with foreign imports while still protecting American maritime jobs. I’m proud to work alongside Senator Lee to deliver reforms that protect our domestic interests while putting American families and businesses first,” said Rep. Cline.

“Outdated regulations are forcing Americans to buy gas and other products from despotic regimes instead of our own producers,” said Senator Mike Lee. “America produces liquefied natural gas (LNG), but we can’t ship it to other American ports due to hundred-year-old red tape. States in need of LNG are forced to rely on Russia for their energy supply – a national security risk and lost opportunity for America’s economy. This bill will prioritize American manufacturing and energy dominance by allowing waivers for industries like LNG for whom the restrictions don’t make sense."

Congressman Ben Cline represents the Sixth Congressional District of Virginia. He previously was an attorney in private practice and served both as an assistant prosecutor and a Member of the Virginia House of Delegates. Cline and his wife, Elizabeth, live in Botetourt County with their two children.