The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, is seeking public comments on allowing the foreign-built vessel, M/V Defiant, to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. This involves carrying up to 12 passengers for hire. The comments will help decide if this could negatively impact U.S. shipbuilders or businesses using U.S.-built vessels. Individuals can submit their comments until May 23, 2025, through the listed methods in the request notice.
Simple Explanation
The Maritime Administration wants to know if letting a boat made in another country, called the M/V Defiant, give rides to a small number of people in the U.S. could hurt American businesses that make or use American-made boats. People can share their thoughts about this until May 23, 2025.