H.R.252 - Secure Our Ports Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.252, the Secure Our Ports Act of 2025, aims to amend Title 46 of the United States Code to prohibit certain contracts for port operations and management. Specifically, it restricts contracts with entities owned or controlled by Chinese, Russian, North Korean, or Iranian state-owned enterprises. The bill seeks to enhance national security by preventing these entities from having control over critical port infrastructure.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to prevent companies with ties to specific foreign governments from owning, leasing, or operating facilities that require a security plan under U.S. law. This could lead to a shift in which companies are eligible to bid on or manage port operations. It may also require existing contracts to be reviewed and potentially terminated if they violate the new restrictions.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by reducing the influence of potentially adversarial nations over critical infrastructure.
- Protection of sensitive information and technologies related to port operations.
- Increased confidence in the security and integrity of U.S. ports.
- Level playing field for domestic companies competing for port operation contracts.
- Reduced risk of espionage or sabotage at U.S. ports.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for retaliatory measures from the affected countries, impacting trade relations.
- Increased costs for port operations if alternative contractors are more expensive.
- Possible delays in port development or expansion due to limited contractor options.
- Risk of legal challenges from companies affected by the prohibition.
- Limited impact if the targeted entities operate through shell corporations or other indirect means.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional mandate to provide for the common defense (Preamble). Congress has the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3), which includes setting conditions for port operations. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific individual liberties or rights guaranteed by the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).