Overview
Title
Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V Island Jewel
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The U.S. government is asking people if it's okay for a boat from another country, called S/V Island Jewel, to carry up to 12 people around the U.S. They want to know if using this foreign boat would make it hard for American boat makers or businesses.
Summary AI
The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the Department of Transportation, released a notice about a request to use a foreign-built small passenger vessel named S/V Island Jewel in U.S. coastwise trade. This notice seeks public comments to help determine if the vessel's use would negatively impact U.S. vessel builders or businesses relying on U.S.-built vessels. Comments are open until May 23, 2025, and can be submitted via the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by mail. All comments will be publicly accessible unless marked as confidential.
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 is a notice issued by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), a part of the Department of Transportation. It concerns a request to allow the use of a foreign-built small passenger vessel named S/V Island Jewel in the coastwise trade of the United States. The main purpose of the notice is to solicit public comments on whether permitting the vessel in U.S. waters could adversely affect local shipbuilders or businesses relying on U.S.-built vessels. Comments on this matter are invited until May 23, 2025.
Summary of the Document
MARAD has received a request to use a foreign-built vessel for carrying up to twelve passengers for hire in U.S. coastwise trade. The document outlines how comments can be submitted, either through the Federal eRulemaking Portal or via mail, and stresses that these comments will be publicly accessible unless marked as confidential. The notice is part of a broader regulatory process to assess potential impacts on U.S. maritime interests.
Significant Issues and Concerns
One of the major issues with the document is the lack of specific information about the requestor or detailed characteristics of the vessel, S/V Island Jewel. This makes it challenging for commentators to provide informed input on potential impacts. Additionally, references to legal statutes such as "46 U.S.C. 12121(b)" are used without explanations, which may confuse readers not familiar with legal jargon. This could limit public engagement and participation.
Moreover, the process for submitting confidential comments is not clearly explained beyond providing an email address. There is ambiguity around what constitutes "commercially confidential" information and how MARAD will ensure confidentiality post-submission. The notice also mentions that all comments, including personal identifiers, will be publicly available, possibly discouraging individuals concerned about privacy from participating.
Broader Public Impact
The public at large might not be directly affected by this notice; however, it does open avenues for influencing regulatory decisions that may concern national maritime policies. It emphasizes the importance of public participation in government decisions that could affect U.S. industries.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
U.S. Vessel Builders: These entities might see foreign-built vessels participating in U.S. trade as direct competition, possibly undermining their business activities. The call for public comments provides an opportunity for their voices to be heard, highlighting potential adverse impacts and arguing for protective measures.
Businesses Using U.S.-Built Vessels: These businesses might face increased competition from cheaper, foreign-built vessels if MARAD permits the request. This could affect their market share and profitability. Engaging in the comment process allows these stakeholders to discuss potential consequences.
Consumers and Passengers: The decision might affect consumers indirectly. If foreign-built vessels are allowed, this could lead to increased competition, possibly lowering costs. However, it might also impact the long-term sustainability of domestic maritime businesses.
By facilitating public comment, the notice empowers stakeholders to influence regulatory outcomes, ensuring decisions reflect diverse perspectives and concerns.
Issues
• The document does not specify who the requestor is or provide specific details about the S/V Island Jewel, making it difficult to assess the potential impact without additional information.
• The document uses complex legal references, such as '46 U.S.C. 12121(b)', without providing an explanation or summary of what these references cover, which may not be accessible to a general audience.
• The process for submitting confidential comments is not clearly defined beyond email instructions, such as what qualifies as 'commercially confidential' and how to ensure confidentiality is maintained after submission.
• The document outlines that comments will be posted without change, including personal information, which might raise privacy concerns and possibly deter individuals from providing feedback.