White House Considers Third Jones Act Waiver Extension

The White House is considering a third extension of the Jones Act waiver as the conflict with Iran disrupts global oil and gas supply chains, Washington Examiner reported. The Trump administration first issued the waiver in March 2026 and extended it in April with an expiration date of August 16. Officials met this week to discuss the possibility of another extension.

A White House official stated that no decision has been made. The same official said President Trump’s Jones Act waiver has helped prevent supply chain shortages and that the administration is monitoring its use. More than 50 Republican members of Congress sent a letter to President Trump asking that the waiver be allowed to expire.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard stated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain closed until the U.S. ends its attacks and has threatened to close additional oil and gas export routes. The U.S. military plans to continue strikes against Iran on July 15.

U.S. Central Command has accused Iran of attacking several commercial ships and neighboring Gulf countries. Brent crude traded at $84.66 per barrel after a 0.08 percent drop and West Texas Intermediate stood at $79.25 per barrel after a 0.11 percent decline at approximately 2:30 p.m.

President Trump stated on July 15 that New York Governor Kathy Hochul terminated data center construction in the state for political reasons. Hochul signed an executive order imposing a one-year statewide moratorium on data centers using 50 megawatts or more of energy.

The German cabinet approved a plan on July 15 to cut more than $32 billion from its climate and transformation fund through 2030. Nearly 10 environmental organizations filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration on July 15 over changes to the Endangered Species Act definition of harm.