The Maritime Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has the authority to grant waivers to allow older vessels to carry up to twelve passengers for hire, even if they don't meet certain U.S. shipbuilding requirements. A request for such a waiver was submitted for the sailboat MAYAN STAR, which is intended for bare boat charters based in Marina Del Rey, California. Public comments on this waiver can be submitted until February 8, 2021, either online or through mail. If the waiver could negatively impact U.S. shipbuilders or businesses using U.S.-flagged vessels, it won't be granted.
Simple Explanation
The government is thinking about letting a sailboat called MAYAN STAR take people on trips for fun, even though it might not be built the way most U.S. boats are supposed to be. People have until early February to say if they think it's a good idea or a bad idea.