The Maritime Administration, part of the Department of Transportation, is considering a request to use a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the S/V Zoe II, in the U.S. coastwise trade. The notice asks the public to comment on whether this use would negatively impact U.S. shipbuilders or U.S. businesses that use American-built vessels. Comments must be submitted by May 27, 2025, and details surrounding the request are available for public review online. The Administration invites comments to help determine any adverse effects this decision might have on the relevant U.S. industries.
Simple Explanation
The government wants to know if a small boat from another country, called the S/V Zoe II, can be used to take people on trips in the U.S. without causing problems for American boat businesses. They are asking people to share their thoughts by May 27, 2025.