Mariner Exam Modernization Act
Sponsored By: Representative Rep. Carbajal, Salud O. [D-CA-24]
In Committee
Summary
Modernize the Merchant Mariner Credentialing examination. This bill would create a formal working group, set new review deadlines, and require a modernization plan to update exam topics, testing methods, and data collection.
Show full summary
- Mariners and applicants: Would require the working group to include at least two people who passed the exam in the prior five years and offer remote participation for members. Exam questions could not be used until the working group reviews and approves them.
- Coast Guard leadership: Would move review language to the Commandant, extend the initial review period to 180 days, and require the modernization plan within 270 days after the review.
- Industry, testing experts, and Congress: Would force consideration of industry standards and Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) competencies, require testing experts' consultation, collect pass/fail data on questions and the full exam, and require a Coast Guard briefing to relevant House and Senate committees within one year.
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Bill Overview
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Broader exam review and modernization plan
If enacted, the review would look at exam questions, content, and relevancy. It would consider industry standards, practices, and technology. It would check any overlap with STCW training rules. After the review, a report with findings and recommendations would go to the Commandant. Not later than 270 days after the review, a modernization plan would be developed and started. The plan would update or remove outdated topics and questions. It would modernize testing methods and collect pass and fail data. The Commandant would consult the working group and testing experts.
Working group must approve exam questions
If enacted, new exam questions could not be used until the working group approves them. The group would include at least two people who passed the exam in the last five years. The Commandant would meet with the group yearly or when new questions are created, whichever is sooner. Members who cannot attend in person could join remotely.
New timelines for exam updates
If enacted, the initial review time would move from 90 days to 180 days. A previous one-year deadline would become not later than 270 days. A plan would need to be developed and started within 270 days after the review ends. These timing changes could speed or slow when updates reach the exam.
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Sponsors & CoSponsors
Sponsor
Rep. Carbajal, Salud O. [D-CA-24]
CA • D
Cosponsors
Rep. Ezell, Mike [R-MS-4]
MS • R
Sponsored 5/13/2025
Rep. Fitzpatrick, Brian K. [R-PA-1]
PA • R
Sponsored 5/20/2025
Roll Call Votes
No roll call votes available for this bill.
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