Goodnight Moon: Foreign Boat Lulls US Trade Rules to Sleep?

2026-11759 — Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Capital Construction Fund and Exhibits

The Maritime Administration wants to keep collecting info from U.S. ship owners who use the Capital Construction Fund, a special savings plan that helps them build or upgrade vessels by delaying some taxes. Fewer people are responding now, but the rules and forms won’t change. If you’re involved, you’ve got 30 days to share your thoughts—no extra costs or new paperwork coming your way!

2026-11754 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V GHOST CRAB

The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for your thoughts on letting the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V GHOST CRAB operate in U.S. coastal waters. This could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels. You have until July 13, 2026, to share your opinion before a final decision is made.

2026-11758 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V AVANGA

The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger boat, the S/V AVANGA, 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 July 13, 2026, so jump in and share your thoughts!

2026-11756 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V KELMAR

The Maritime Administration is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the S/V KELMAR, operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and local businesses, so they want to hear from the public by July 13, 2026. If approved, it might shake up the small passenger vessel scene without costing taxpayers a dime.

2026-11755 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V LIVE BAIT III

The Maritime Administration is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V LIVE BAIT III, can be used for U.S. coastal trips without hurting American boat builders or businesses. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until July 13, 2026, to share them. This could open doors for new boats but also affects local shipbuilders and operators.

2026-11753 — Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Capital Construction Fund and Exhibits

The Maritime Administration wants to keep collecting info from U.S. ship owners who use the Capital Construction Fund, a special savings plan that helps them build or upgrade vessels by delaying some taxes. Fewer people are responding now, so the paperwork is lighter, but they’re asking for your thoughts within 30 days. This renewal won’t change the rules or costs, just keeps the program running smoothly.

Previous: 2025-08167 — Experimental Aircraft “All Makes and Models” Program

Pilots flying certain experimental aircraft can now get official permission to be pilot in command by completing special training—no practical test needed! This new program starts right away and aims to make flying these unique planes easier and safer. The FAA wants feedback on the rules as they roll out, so pilots and operators should keep an eye out and share their thoughts.

Next: 2025-08172 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V Above Average

The Maritime Administration is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat called M/V Above Average can be used for U.S. coastwise trade, which means carrying up to 12 passengers for hire along U.S. waters. They want to hear from people who might be affected, like U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, before making a decision. If approved, this could change who’s allowed to operate these boats and when.