Overview
Title
Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BLACKJACK
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The government needs help deciding if a special boat called M/V BLACKJACK, made in another country, can work in the U.S. People can share their thoughts about this until May 23, 2025, so the government knows if using this boat might hurt businesses that build or use American-made boats.
Summary AI
The Maritime Administration, representing the Secretary of Transportation, is evaluating a request related to the use of a foreign-built small passenger vessel, M/V BLACKJACK, in the United States coastwise trade. This notice seeks public comments to determine if using the vessel might negatively impact U.S. vessel builders or businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. The public has until May 23, 2025, to submit their comments via the Federal eRulemaking Portal or through mail. Submissions should include the docket number and may be made confidentially upon request.
Abstract
The Secretary of Transportation, as represented by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built; certain U.S. built; and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that solely carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received such a determination request and is publishing this notice to solicit comments to assist with determining whether the proposed use of the vessel set forth in the request would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels in those businesses. Information about the requestor's vessel, including a description of the proposed service, is in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.
Keywords AI
Sources
AnalysisAI
The document from the Federal Register details a notice from the Maritime Administration under the United States Department of Transportation. It concerns the use of a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BLACKJACK, in U.S. coastwise trade, a term referring to maritime transportation between U.S. ports. The Maritime Administration is tasked with evaluating if allowing this vessel could adversely affect U.S. shipbuilders or businesses using domestically built vessels, and the notice is seeking public comments on this matter.
General Summary
The Maritime Administration has authority, in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, to make decisions about foreign or foreign-rebuilt vessels operating along U.S. coasts. They are currently considering an application's impact on American industries. Public input is being actively sought until May 23, 2025. Interested parties can submit their comments either online via the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by delivering them to a specific physical address. The notice also extends specific procedures for confidential comment submission.
Significant Issues or Concerns
Complex Legal Language: The document is written in formal legalese that may be challenging for many readers. Those unfamiliar with maritime law or regulatory processes might find it difficult to decipher the implications without additional research or explanation.
Accessibility and Public Participation: While the notice seeks public input, the means of participation may inadvertently limit engagement. Not everyone may be aware of the Federal eRulemaking Portal, nor have ease of access to mail or hand delivery.
Definition of Adverse Effects: The document requests evidence of adverse impacts from public comments but lacks clarity on what specifics constitute an adverse effect, potentially creating confusion among commenters.
Confidentiality Clarifications: While there are instructions for submitting confidential information, the lack of a clear explanation of what qualifies as "Confidential Commercial Information" could result in uncertainty or improper submissions.
Assumed Familiarity with Legal References: The document cites specific laws and regulations without basic explanations, presenting an obstacle for readers not versed in legal references.
Impact on the Public
Broadly, the document is part of a regulatory procedure aiming to protect U.S. maritime business interests and preserve jobs by evaluating the potential economic impact of importing vessel service capabilities. Public input is being leveraged as a critical component in this policy decision, allowing individuals and entities to voice concerns that might affect local employment or industry standards.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For U.S. vessel builders and associated trade businesses, the solicitation of comments is an opportunity to safeguard their market from foreign competition, ensuring jobs and economic activity remain domestically focused. Conversely, those advocating for the use of foreign vessels, such as tourism companies or operators looking to expand service options or efficiencies, may view this notice as a potential hurdle in their operational plans.
Individuals concerned with trade policy and economic protectionism may see this as a positive example of safeguarding domestic industries, while others might critique it as restrictive or contrary to global trade practices.
Ultimately, this structured public commentary process underscores the importance of balancing open-market opportunities with national economic preservation strategies. However, it is crucial that the engagement process is as accessible and clear as possible to ensure comprehensive and informed input from all relevant stakeholders.
Issues
• The document contains legal and procedural language that might be complex for individuals not familiar with maritime law or regulatory processes.
• The mechanism for soliciting public comments might not fully ensure broad public participation due to limited awareness or access to online or mail submission methods.
• The document could benefit from greater clarity regarding the specific nature of the adverse effects that need to be demonstrated by commenters.
• Instructions for submitting comments confidentially are detailed, but there might be a lack of understanding about what constitutes 'Confidential Commercial Information' without further explanation.
• The document assumes a level of familiarity with the laws and codes cited, which might not be accessible to all readers without legal expertise.