The Coast Guard has issued a final rule extending the validity of recreational vessel endorsements on Certificates of Documentation from 1 year to 5 years, as mandated by the Frank LoBiondo Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2018. This change aims to reduce the administrative burden on vessel owners and allows them to renew their documentation less frequently. Additionally, the rule establishes phased user fees based on the selected duration of the endorsement. By aligning the Code of Federal Regulations with this new statutory requirement, the Coast Guard anticipates that these updates will save time and money for both vessel owners and the government.
Simple Explanation
The Coast Guard made a new rule that means boat owners only have to fill out paperwork for their boats every 5 years instead of every year, which saves time and money. However, some people are unsure if this will really be better for everyone, and they'll be watching to see how it works out.