Overview
Title
Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V SARITA
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The Maritime Administration is asking people to tell them if using a foreign boat called M/V SARITA in the U.S. might hurt American boat makers or businesses. They want comments by May 23, 2025, and people can share their thoughts online.
Summary AI
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is seeking public comments on a request to use a foreign-built vessel, M/V SARITA, in the U.S. coastwise trade. This involves determining whether the vessel's usage would negatively impact U.S. shipbuilders or businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. The public is invited to submit comments by May 23, 2025, to help assess the potential adverse effects. Comments can be sent through multiple channels, including online at regulations.gov.
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 is a notice from the Maritime Administration (MARAD) of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It requests public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, M/V SARITA, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. The decision hinges on whether this vessel's operation would have a detrimental effect on U.S. shipbuilders or coastwise trade businesses that operate U.S.-built vessels.
General Summary
The notice is part of a process where MARAD evaluates the eligibility of foreign-built vessels to ensure their operations don't negatively impact American businesses. The proposed vessel, M/V SARITA, intends to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire in the U.S. coastwise trade, prompting MARAD to seek public input. Interested parties have until May 23, 2025, to submit their views.
Significant Issues and Concerns
One primary issue is the anonymity of the entity requesting the determination; the document does not disclose this information. This lack of transparency can make it difficult for commenters to assess if there's any bias or favoritism involved. Additionally, the criteria for evaluating "adverse effects" on U.S. shipbuilders and businesses are quite vague in the document. Without specific examples or a clear framework, it's challenging for stakeholders to provide substantive comments on the impact assessment.
The instructions for submitting confidential comments are incomplete. Although provisions are made for handling comments as "commercially confidential," the notice does not clearly explain what qualifies as such. This omission could deter some participants from offering comprehensive input.
Public Impact
For the general public, this notice highlights an opportunity to participate in the regulatory process, influencing decisions that potentially impact local economies. However, the effectiveness of public participation may be limited, given that submitting comments requires familiarity with specific online platforms like regulations.gov. Those unfamiliar with this process might feel excluded.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For U.S. shipbuilders and companies involved in coastwise trade, this determination process is crucial. Allowing a foreign-built vessel to operate could affect their market share, potentially lowering demand for their services. On the other hand, companies looking to utilize the M/V SARITA might benefit from increased operational flexibility and possibly lower costs, depending on vessel availability.
Additionally, stakeholders possessing detailed knowledge about the cost structures and competitive dynamics of U.S. vessel building and operation could significantly influence the determination outcome by highlighting any undue economic impacts meticulously.
Overall, while the notice invites public engagement, ensuring clarity and fairness in the evaluation process remains a critical concern for all parties involved.
Issues
• The document does not specify the identity of the entity requesting the determination, making it difficult to assess any potential favoritism.
• The description of the potential adverse effects on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses is vague and lacks specific examples or criteria for assessment.
• The Public Participation section mentions submitting comments as 'commercially confidential' but does not provide a clear process for determining what qualifies as confidential commercial information.
• The notice could be seen as potentially favoring those who are aware of or have access to the regulations.gov portal, as it is a primary method for submitting comments.
• The document could benefit from providing an example of what constitutes an 'undue adverse effect' on U.S. vessel builders to guide commenters.