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 operated by Chinese, Russian, North Korean, or Iranian state-owned enterprises, or any foreign entity with partial ownership by these countries. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives and referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, later being reported with an amendment and committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the State of the Union.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to prevent companies from specific adversarial nations from controlling or managing critical port infrastructure within the United States. This could lead to a shift in which companies are awarded port operation contracts. It may also lead to increased scrutiny of existing contracts and relationships with foreign entities.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced national security by reducing the influence of potentially hostile nations over critical infrastructure.
- Protection of sensitive information and technologies related to port operations.
- Potential for increased opportunities for domestic companies in port management and operation.
- Reduced risk of economic espionage and sabotage.
- Reinforcement of supply chain security and resilience.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs in port operations if alternative contractors are more expensive.
- Possible strain on diplomatic relations with the countries affected by the prohibition.
- Risk of retaliatory measures from the targeted countries, impacting trade and economic cooperation.
- Limited competition in port operations, potentially leading to reduced innovation and efficiency.
- Possible disruptions in existing port operations and supply chains during the transition to new contractors.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the constitutional mandate to "provide for the common defence" (Preamble) and the power of Congress to regulate commerce with foreign nations (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3). By restricting foreign entities with potential adversarial interests from controlling critical infrastructure, the bill aims to safeguard national security. However, potential challenges could arise if the restrictions are viewed as discriminatory or as infringing on established trade agreements, which could raise questions under the Commerce Clause.
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).