Rocketship Boat Blasts into U.S. Waters: Foreign Vessel Waiver Sparks Debate
Published Date: 4/23/2025
Notice
Summary
The government is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat called S/V ROCKETSHIP can be used for trips along the U.S. coast. They want to make sure this won’t hurt American boat builders or businesses that use U.S.-made boats. People have a chance to share their thoughts before a final decision is made, so keep an eye out if you’re involved in coastal boat trips or building boats!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Request to Use Foreign-Built S/V ROCKETSHIP
MARAD received a request to allow the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V ROCKETSHIP to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. The agency is asking whether that proposed use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels.
Determination Covers ≤12-Passenger Vessels
The Secretary of Transportation (MARAD) is authorized to make coastwise-use determinations for vessels that carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. If you operate or own a small passenger-for-hire boat (12 passengers or fewer), that vessel type is subject to this MARAD determination process.
Public Comment Opportunity for Stakeholders
MARAD published this notice to solicit comments from the public to help decide if allowing S/V ROCKETSHIP in coastwise trade would harm U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses. If you are involved in coastal passenger trips or boat building, you can submit comments before a final decision is made.
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