The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is considering a request to allow a foreign-built small passenger vessel to operate in the U.S. coastwise trade. They are seeking public comments to assess whether this would negatively impact U.S. vessel builders or businesses operating with U.S.-built vessels. Interested parties can submit comments by May 23, 2025, through the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by mail. MARAD ensures all comments are publicly available, but confidential submissions can be made under specified procedures.
Simple Explanation
MARAD, which is part of the government, wants to know what people think about letting a small boat from another country carry passengers along U.S. shores. They are checking to see if this would make things difficult for American boat makers or businesses that use American boats.