The U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee on Jan. 21 voted 36-22 to advance bipartisan legislation offered by U.S. Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) that would bolster U.S. maritime security law by addressing the unlawful seizure of any U.S.-owned property by foreign governments.
“Thrilled to see this critical legislation move one step closer to becoming law,” said Rep. Pfluger, who sponsored the Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2026, H.R. 7084, on Jan. 15 with four original cosponsors, including U.S. Rep. Salud Carabajal (D-CA).
“Protecting American investments abroad is essential for economic growth and our national security,” Rep. Pfluger added. “The Defending American Property Abroad Act of 2026 sends a clear message: the United States will stand up for its businesses and hold countries accountable when they violate trade agreements or undermine property rights.”
Specifically, H.R. 7084 would give the President of the United States authority to deny entry into U.S. ports for vessels that use ports or terminals in Western Hemisphere countries where American property has been seized or nationalized.
The bill’s provisions would apply to ports, harbors, or marine terminals located in countries with free trade agreements with the U.S. that were accessible only through U.S.-owned land and have been subject to expropriation by foreign governments.
Additionally, H.R. 7084 includes safeguards and conditions for removing presidential designations, and would allow restrictions to be lifted if the offending country returns the seized property, terminates any future seizure measures, provides adequate compensation, or otherwise resolves the dispute to the President’s satisfaction.
The bill also would provide exceptions for emergencies and other limited circumstances to ensure that maritime safety is not compromised while still holding foreign governments accountable, according to a bill summary provided by Rep. Pfluger’s staff.
The measure now moves to the full chamber for action.