FR 2024-28756

The document outlines a decision by the United States Coast Guard to establish a temporary safety zone in Queensway Bay, Long Beach, California, during a fireworks display on the night of December 31, 2024. The purpose of this safety zone is to protect personnel, vessels, and the marine environment from potential dangers associated with the event. Any vessels or individuals that want to enter the designated area will need prior authorization from the Captain of the Port Los Angeles-Long Beach or a designated representative. This temporary rule will be in effect from 11 p.m. on New Year's Eve through 12:30 a.m. on January 1, 2025.

Significant Issues and Concerns

A potential issue with this document is the inclusion of technical and regulatory language, which might be challenging for the general public to interpret fully. Legal references such as sections of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) and mentions of specific maritime communication standards (e.g., VHF-FM Channels) could be difficult for laypersons to understand without additional context.

Furthermore, while the document addresses rules related to protests, it offers limited detail on how protesters can safely carry out activities near the safety zone, aside from providing contact information for coordination. Additional clarity could help ensure that First Amendment rights are adequately protected without compromising safety.

There is also mention of an environmental consideration report, but the document doesn't provide details on how to access it or a clear summary of the report's findings. This omission might limit public understanding of the environmental impact assessment that supports the decision.

Finally, there is no mention of a contingency plan for event delays or cancellations, which could lead to uncertainty for stakeholders and the public if unforeseen changes occur.

Impacts on the Public

For the general public, the creation of this safety zone primarily impacts those planning to navigate or work in the waters of Queensway Bay during the specified times. They must be aware of the restrictions and could face disruptions if unacquainted with the standard communication procedures or the geographic boundaries defined in technical coordinates.

The document might positively impact public safety by preventing accidents or environmental harm during the fireworks display. However, understanding who to contact and how, particularly for those unfamiliar with maritime regulations, could cause confusion.

Impacts on Specific Stakeholders

Small businesses, such as local tour operators or commercial vessels that regularly traverse Queensway Bay, may feel the impact of this regulation, albeit temporarily. However, the document affirms that the rule is not expected to have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The Coast Guard offers avenues for small businesses to seek assistance or provide feedback on compliance, which could mitigate some negative impacts.

Stakeholders who depend on clear and immediate access to the waters for operations will need to adjust their schedules to comply with the designated timeframe, which may require additional coordination and planning.

In conclusion, while the intention behind this regulation is commendable in terms of public safety and environmental protection, further clarification in key areas could enhance its accessibility and effectiveness for all impacted parties.

The Coast Guard's rule, as documented in this Federal Register entry, references financial implications under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538). This Act requires the Coast Guard to consider the potential financial impact of its regulatory actions, especially if such actions might impose expenditures amounting to $100,000,000 or more in any single year on State, local, or Tribal governments or on the private sector.

Financial Considerations and Regulatory Implications

In the context of this rule, the Coast Guard concludes there are no expenditures reaching this substantial amount. Consequently, this rule is not expected to impose substantial financial responsibilities on government entities or private organizations. This determination impacts the way local agencies and businesses perceive the upcoming safety zone restrictions. They can proceed with the understanding that compliance with these temporary measures will not lead to considerable financial obligations.

Relation to Identified Issues

This financial reference underscores that the rule primarily serves as a safety measure rather than a fiscal policy with notable monetary implications. Some issues identified in the document, such as lacking detailed guidance for protesters or alternative communication systems, are not directly related to financial allocations or spending. However, if addressing these issues requires additional resources or legislative changes, it could potentially engage financial considerations that surpass the stated threshold.

Since the rule does not reach the threshold of $100,000,000, the Coast Guard has not allocated significant funds to mitigate potential deficiencies noted, such as educating the public about marine communication or enhancing public access to related environmental considerations. Understanding the rule's financial limitations helps explain why some areas may appear under-resourced or inadequately addressed.

Overall, the Coast Guard's safety zone plan, while generally not a financial burden at the level that triggers deeper fiscal scrutiny, relies on existing resources and protocols without new significant monetary commitments. This financial outlook aligns with the broader goal of ensuring public safety without incurring excessive expenditures.