Trump waives Jones Act to aid Puerto Rico

WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump loosened shipping restrictions for Puerto Rico after Gov. Ricardo Rosselló pleaded to the White House for more assistance. White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders tweeted Thursday morning that Trump waived the Jones Act for Puerto Rico, per Rosselló’s request. The Jones Act blocks foreign-flagged vessels from importing and exporting cargo between U.S. ports. Puerto Rico is in ruins this week after Hurricane Maria swept over the island. Elaine Duke, the acting secretary of homeland security, said the waiver is good for 10 days and covers all products shipped to Puerto Rico. “This waiver will ensure that over the next 10 days, all options are available to move and distribute goods to the people of Puerto Rico,” she said in a statement. “It is intended to ensure we have enough fuel and commodities to support lifesaving efforts, respond to the storm, and restore critical services and critical infrastructure operations in the wake of these devastating storms.” The Department of Homeland Security issued another Jones Act waiver earlier this month in anticipation of Hurricane Irma. Trump plans to visit Puerto Rico on Tuesday.