The Maritime Administration (MARAD) of the Department of Transportation is seeking public comments on a request to use a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V Mastermind, in U.S. coastwise trade. The vessel would carry no more than 12 passengers for hire. The request raises questions about potential negative impacts on U.S. vessel builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels. Public comments can be submitted until May 23, 2025, and further details can be found on the regulations.gov website under docket number MARAD-2025-0028.
Simple Explanation
The U.S. government wants to know if using a foreign-made boat, called the M/V Mastermind, to carry a small number of people for money might hurt local boat-makers and businesses, and they're asking people to share their thoughts about it before a deadline.