The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is seeking public comments on the use of a foreign-built small passenger vessel in U.S. coastwise trade. The request concerns whether the proposed use of the vessel, which carries a maximum of 12 passengers, would negatively impact U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses using U.S.-built vessels. Details of the vessel's intended operations and instructions for submitting comments are provided. Comments are accepted through the Federal eRulemaking Portal or by mail, and will be made publicly available unless specifically marked as confidential.
Simple Explanation
Imagine there's a boat built in another country that wants to pick up a few people and sail them around in the USA. The people in charge are asking everyone if it's okay to let this boat do that, or if it might be a problem for the businesses in the USA that build and use their own boats.