Overview
Title
Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V Wind Therapy
Agencies
ELI5 AI
The government is thinking about letting a boat called S/V Wind Therapy, which wasn't built in the U.S., be used to carry a few people for fun rides along the U.S. coast. They want to know if using this boat will be bad for American boat makers or others who use American boats, so they're asking people to share their thoughts.
Summary AI
The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the Department of Transportation, has received a request to determine if a foreign-built vessel known as S/V Wind Therapy can be used in U.S. coastwise trade. This involves assessing whether the vessel's use would harm U.S. shipbuilders or trades using American-made ships. To help make a decision, MARAD is asking the public to submit comments by May 23, 2025, through the methods outlined on regulations.gov or by mail. All comments will be public, and those wishing to keep their comments private must follow specific instructions.
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 issued by the Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the Department of Transportation concerns a request to determine the eligibility of a foreign-built vessel named S/V Wind Therapy for use in U.S. coastwise trade. This evaluation focuses on whether the inclusion of this vessel in such operations might negatively impact American shipbuilders and businesses that depend on U.S.-built vessels. To inform its decision, MARAD invites the public to submit comments and perspectives on this matter by May 23, 2025.
General Summary
The MARAD notification is a formal appeal for public input on the advisability of allowing a foreign-built vessel to partake in certain U.S. maritime activities traditionally reserved for vessels constructed domestically. The notice includes instructions for submitting either public or confidential comments via an official web portal or through physical mail delivery. The document specifies the need for public input to ascertain potential adverse effects against domestic interests.
Significant Issues and Concerns
One primary issue is the potential economic impact on U.S. shipbuilders and coastwise trade businesses, as the document does not provide substantive details on how a vessel like the S/V Wind Therapy might affect these sectors. This responsibility is left to the public, who might require more guidance to evaluate these impacts accurately.
Additionally, while arrangements for submitting confidential comments are mentioned, the process for ensuring such confidentiality might discourage stakeholders from sharing sensitive information. The document, referencing legislative and regulatory standards, might also be challenging to understand for those unfamiliar with legal codes like 46 U.S.C. 12121(b) or 49 CFR 1.93(a).
Lastly, the absence of information regarding tracking or receipt confirmation for mailed comments could lead to uncertainty for those opting for this submission method, given the inability to verify that their input has been received.
Impact on the Public
Broadly, the document impacts the public by potentially setting a precedent for the use of foreign-built vessels in U.S. coastwise trade. The outcome could inform future regulatory practices and affect national policy concerning maritime trade operations. The public’s involvement is crucial as it shapes regulatory decisions that balance industry competition and protection of local industries.
Impact on Specific Stakeholders
For U.S. shipbuilders, the decision may directly affect their market share and the economic viability of their businesses if the inclusion of foreign vessels in domestic trade becomes common practice. On the other hand, proponents of S/V Wind Therapy's inclusion argue it could enhance service diversity in the maritime sector, potentially lowering costs and increasing choices for consumers.
Stakeholders in related industries, such as tourism or transport, might view this as an opportunity for expansion if foreign-built vessels provide improved service offerings.
Overall, this MARAD notice underscores the complexities involved in balancing international competition and domestic industry protection, highlighting the significant role public engagement plays in shaping such crucial regulatory decisions.
Issues
• The document does not specify details about the potential adverse effects on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses, leaving it to public comments to highlight such effects.
• The process for submitting confidential comments is outlined, but there is no assurance or detailed process on how confidentiality will be maintained, which may deter people from submitting sensitive information.
• The document uses legislative and regulatory references (such as 46 U.S.C. 12121(b), 49 CFR 1.93(a)) without further explanation, which may be unclear to readers unfamiliar with these regulations.
• The instructions for mailing or hand-delivering comments do not specify the possibility of using tracking or requiring a signed receipt, which could help commenters ensure their submission has been received.