Restrict U.S. port access for vessels linked to foreign seizures of U.S.-owned property?
This bill would restrict certain foreign vessels from entering or operating in U.S. ports and navigable waters if they have previously used ports or facilities that were seized or expropriated from U.S. owners in foreign countries. The bill would allow the President to designate such foreign ports, harbors, or marine terminals if a foreign government has nationalized or otherwise taken control of property owned by a U.S. person. Vessels that have used these designated facilities could be denied entry into U.S. ports, with exceptions for emergencies or specific authorized transit. The designation would be removed if the foreign government restores ownership, provides compensation, or resolves the dispute.
Sponsor: Rep. August Pfluger (Republican, Texas, District 11)
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Opponents say
• At the time of research and publication, no official opposing statements have been identified. This does not mean that nobody opposes the bill, nor does it mean that opposing statements will not be made in the future.
Proponents say
• "Thrilled to see this critical legislation move one step closer to becoming law. American companies operating abroad should not have to fear arbitrary government actions that undermine their property rights. Protecting American investments abroad is essential for economic growth and our national security. The Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2026 sends a clear message: the United States will stand up for its businesses and hold countries accountable when they violate trade agreements or undermine property rights." Source: Rep. August Pfluger (Republican, Texas, District 11), sponsor of H.R. 7084
• "Under the leadership of Mexico’s previous president, Manuel Lopez Obrador, and now the current president, Claudia Sheinbaum, the Mexican government is committing a blatant theft against a major American company and, by extension, the United States itself. No nation should be allowed to bully an American firm without consequences.” Source: Sen. Bill Hagerty (Republican, Tennessee)
- Pfluger’s Bill to Defend American Property Abroad Passes Full Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (Press Release)
- Legislative Update: Hong Kong, Shipping, Imports, Exports, Food (Sandler, Travis & Rosenberg, P.A.)
- T&I Committee to Mark Up Bills on Digital Pilot Certificates, Broadband Access in Appalachia, Protecting Americans’ Property in Other Countries and More (House Transportation Committee)
- Panama files lawsuits against owner of ports at centre of US-China struggle (The Guardian)
- US Company accuses Mexico of expropriating its property on the Caribbean coast (The Associated Press)
- Rep. August Pfluger’s Largest Donors (OpenSecrets)
