The Maritime Administration (MARAD) under the Department of Transportation is reviewing a request to allow a foreign-built, small passenger vessel to operate in U.S. coastwise trade, which involves carrying no more than twelve passengers. They're seeking public comments to determine if this use would negatively impact U.S. vessel builders or businesses that rely on U.S.-built vessels. Interested parties can submit comments until May 23, 2025, via the federal website or by mail, and all comments will be made public. Additionally, there are provisions for submitting comments confidentially if they contain sensitive commercial information.
Simple Explanation
The government wants to know if letting a foreign boat carry a few people in the U.S. would hurt American businesses that make or use boats. They are asking people to say what they think before making a decision.