Freight Pulse & Law: Jones Act Waiver, ELD Revocations & Hormuz Tolls Heat Up

August 9, 2026 | Freight Pulse & Law Update

Four regulatory and geopolitical developments are raising the cost of inaction for carriers, importers, and shippers this week. Validate compliance systems now: before a waiver expires, a device is rejected, or a tariff is collected.

Jones Act Waiver Faces Another Test

Energy Secretary Chris Wright signaled that another extension of the historic Jones Act waiver is likely before the current authorization expires on August 16. The waiver has helped lower energy prices by expanding vessel access, but maritime groups and Republican lawmakers argue that continued relief weakens the domestic fleet, shipbuilding capacity, and national security objectives. Reuters reports on the expected extension.

FMCSA Revokes Five ELD Models

On August 6, FMCSA revoked MOONLIGHT, HGRS, HIGHEST, TRUCKFORD, and Sparkle from its registered ELD list. Affected drivers must use paper logs or compliant logging software immediately. Carriers have until October 6 to install approved replacements; afterward, continued use can trigger no-ELD violations and out-of-service orders. The action comes alongside broader enforcement, including English-proficiency compliance. Review FMCSA’s official notice.

Hormuz Toll Proposal Creates Insurance Conflict

Iran is seeking a proposed 5%–7% toll based on cargo value for Strait of Hormuz transit. Global shipping associations oppose the measure as inconsistent with international law. Meanwhile, a Lloyd’s Market Association clause allows insurers to terminate coverage for vessels that pay such fees: creating a direct compliance and insurance catch-22 for shipowners. The toll remains proposed, not operational. Reuters outlines the dispute.

Section 301 Tariffs Move to Court

Two lawsuits at the U.S. Court of International Trade challenge new 10%–12.5% Section 301 duties covering goods from approximately 60 economies, representing 99.4% of U.S. imports. Plaintiffs argue USTR failed to conduct the required country-by-country analysis. Importers should model landed costs and preserve entry documentation while litigation proceeds. See USTR’s action.

Lanta Logistics helps third party logistics providers and shippers manage regulatory complexity through logistics software, a warehouse management system, compliant fulfillment, and 3PL Maryland execution from our Glen Burnie warehouse. Contact Lanta Logistics for Mid-Atlantic supply chain support.