The Maritime Administration (MARAD) of the Department of Transportation has received a request to waive U.S.-build requirements for the coastwise trade laws, allowing a vessel named PA860 to carry up to twelve passengers for hire. The vessel is intended for whale watching tours based in Long Beach, California. The public is invited to comment on whether granting this waiver would negatively impact U.S. vessel builders or companies that use U.S.-flag vessels. Comments can be submitted through various methods, with a deadline for submissions set for February 25, 2021.
Simple Explanation
The government is thinking about letting an old boat called PA860 take people out to see whales in California, even though it wasn't made in the U.S. They want to hear what people think about this idea and are asking for comments by February 25, 2021.