Feds Seek Okay for Seductive 'VIXEN' Boat in U.S. Waters?
Published Date: 4/23/2025
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on a request to use a foreign-built small passenger vessel called M/V VIXEN for U.S. coastwise trade. This decision could affect U.S. shipbuilders and businesses that use American-made boats. Comments are due by May 23, 2025, so speak up if you have thoughts on how this might impact the industry or local jobs!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign-built M/V VIXEN under review
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking for public comments by May 23, 2025 on a request to allow the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V VIXEN to engage in U.S. coastwise trade. MARAD will decide whether that use would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or on coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels. The vessel type at issue is a small passenger vessel authorized to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire.
Coastwise endorsement eligibility for small vessels
Under 46 U.S.C. 12121(b), the U.S. Coast Guard may issue a certificate of documentation with a coastwise trade endorsement for eligible small passenger vessels carrying no more than 12 passengers for hire if MARAD, after notice and opportunity for public comment, determines the vessel's use will not unduly adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses. A favorable MARAD determination would permit the Coast Guard to grant the endorsement that enables coastwise trade.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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