H.R. 8020 — American LNG First Act of 2026

This section establishes an exception to the U.S. citizenship and ownership requirements for vessel documentation under 46 U.S.C. 12103(a) (generally required for coastwise trade under the Jones Act) for vessels transporting liquefied natural gas (LNG). The exception excludes (1) vessels owned in whole or in part by a Russian or Chinese national or government, (2) Russian- or Chinese-flagged vessels, or (3) vessels with any Russian or Chinese crewmember. (Thus, qualifying non-U.S.-owned LNG vessels may receive documentation and coastwise endorsement under 46 U.S.C. 12112.)