American LNG First Act of 2023

This bill exempts vessels transporting liquefied natural gas (LNG) from U.S. coastwise trade laws that typically require domestic shipping to be handled by U.S.-owned vessels. It directly affects LNG shipping companies seeking to operate domestically, allowing them to obtain required certificates for LNG transport without meeting standard U.S.-ownership rules. The key provision adds an exception to coastwise laws but explicitly excludes vessels owned by Russia/China, flagged by Russia/China, or crewed by Russian/Chinese nationals. This change enables U.S. LNG companies to use foreign-built vessels for domestic transport while blocking Russian and Chinese involvement in the sector.