Overview
Title
Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V Three Little Birds
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The government is deciding if a small boat, made in another country, can help carry people in the U.S., and they want to make sure this doesn't hurt businesses that make or use American boats. They're asking people to share their thoughts on this, but being careful about keeping personal details private can be a bit tricky.
Summary AI
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the Department of Transportation has received a request to use a foreign-built small passenger vessel in U.S. coastwise trade. MARAD is seeking public comments on whether this proposed use would negatively impact U.S. shipbuilders or businesses using vessels made in the U.S. The notice provides instructions on how to submit comments and where to find more information about the vessel and the request. All comments will be publicly available unless marked as confidential, following specific guidelines.
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 outlines a notice by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation. This notice concerns a request to use a small passenger vessel, specifically foreign-built, in coastwise trade; that is, trade along the coast of the United States. Coastwise trade is typically restricted to U.S.-built vessels, aimed at protecting U.S. shipbuilders and maritime businesses. This request for a foreign-built vessel to participate has prompted MARAD to seek public comments on whether such an inclusion might negatively impact the domestic shipbuilding industry or businesses relying on U.S.-manufactured vessels.
General Overview
The notice is a formal announcement inviting public input on whether allowing this foreign-built vessel could harm U.S. interests in the maritime industry. The Maritime Administration is tasked with ensuring such inclusions do not adversely affect the competitive landscape for U.S. vessel builders or businesses operating coastwise trade with U.S.-built ships. The document specifies how the public can submit comments, whether they wish to support or oppose the request, and provides options for confidential submissions if needed.
Significant Issues or Concerns
A notable issue in the document is the specialized maritime and legal jargon, which could present challenges for individuals unfamiliar with such regulations. Terms like "46 U.S.C. 12121(b)" might be recognized by those in maritime law but may confuse the general public. This could hinder meaningful participation from stakeholders who are not industry experts. Moreover, although the document details the process for submitting comments, it raises potential privacy concerns by requiring personally identifiable information. This may deter individuals from providing input if they fear exposure or misuse of personal data.
Potential Public Impact
Broadly, this document signals an opportunity for the public to influence maritime policy decisions. Those interested in maintaining robust U.S. maritime industries might view this as a critical chance to voice concerns about foreign competition. Conversely, stakeholders looking for more extensive options in passenger service might see potential benefits from such inclusions, prompting them to support the request.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
The decision to allow foreign-built vessels in U.S. coastwise trade could significantly affect several stakeholders:
U.S. Shipbuilders: They might experience increased competition, potentially resulting in reduced demand for domestic vessel manufacturing. This could negatively affect employment and economic activity in regions reliant on shipbuilding.
Coastwise Trade Businesses: Businesses operating U.S.-built ships might face unfair competition, resulting in a loss of market share. This could be perceived as a negative impact on their operational viability.
General Public/Consumers: More competition could lead to better services and possibly lower fares in passenger transport, albeit potentially at the cost of domestic manufacturing jobs.
MARAD's call for comments is an essential mechanism for balancing these interests, ensuring policies are enacted that consider economic, competitive, and community impacts. The complex process of requesting confidential treatment could be a barrier for some, potentially limiting the breadth of opinion MARAD ultimately receives.
Issues
• The document language is generally clear; however, the use of legal references such as '46 U.S.C. 12121(b)' without context may be confusing to those unfamiliar with maritime law.
• There is no specific indication of potential wasteful spending or favoritism towards particular organizations or individuals in the document.
• The document is technical and may be difficult for a layperson to fully understand, particularly in regard to the legal and regulatory framework discussed.
• The process for submitting comments is described in detail, but the need to include personal identifying information may raise privacy concerns for some individuals.
• While the document provides an email option for confidential comments, it suggests a complex process for requesting confidential treatment, which may deter potential commenters who wish to protect sensitive information.
• The document does not include specific details about the vessel in question, which might help commenters provide more informed responses.