Susie G Sails In: Foreign Boat Waiver Sparks Public Debate
Published Date: 4/14/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V SUSIE G, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal waters. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels. Comments are open until May 14, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up if you care about local shipbuilding and coastal trade!
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Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Potential Harm to U.S. Boat Builders
MARAD is considering a request to allow the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V SUSIE G to operate in U.S. coastwise trade. The agency will determine whether that use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels; comments are due May 14, 2026 (Docket MARAD-2026-0596).
Foreign Vessel May Gain Coastwise Endorsement
Under 46 U.S.C. 12121(b), small passenger vessels that carry no more than 12 passengers for hire may receive a coastwise trade endorsement if MARAD determines the use will not unduly harm U.S. builders or coastwise businesses. The request before MARAD concerns the M/V SUSIE G and, if approved, would permit that foreign-built boat to operate in U.S. coastal trade.
Stakeholders Can Submit Evidence by May 14
Interested parties can submit comments and supporting documentation to DOT Docket MARAD-2026-0596 by May 14, 2026 to show whether M/V SUSIE G would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses. Comments will be posted publicly unless confidential treatment is requested and granted under the Department's FOIA procedures.
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