This bill changes the rules for who can work on ships and equipment used for offshore energy projects in U.S. waters. Currently, companies can get exemptions to hire foreign workers for certain offshore jobs, but this bill tightens those rules significantly.

Starting immediately when the law takes effect, most offshore workers must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or citizens of the country where the ship is registered. However, the bill creates some exceptions for specific types of work. For example, ships doing very large offshore lifts (over 1,000 metric tons) or installing wind turbine parts can still use more foreign workers for a limited time. Companies that want these exceptions must apply to the Coast Guard, and the exemptions only last one year at a time. The Coast Guard will inspect these ships annually and can fine companies up to $10,000 per day if they violate the rules.

The bill also addresses specialized ships that lay cables and pipes for offshore projects. If U.S.-registered ships capable of doing this work are available, foreign ships generally cannot do the job. The government will maintain a list of American ships that can do this work and check whether they're available before allowing foreign vessels to take on projects. Additionally, the bill increases funding for maritime training programs and creates a new process for companies to challenge government rulings about which ships can work in U.S. offshore waters. The changes aim to protect American maritime jobs while allowing some flexibility when American vessels aren't available for specialized offshore work.