Sea Change in Applications: Merchant Marine Academy Goes Digital

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!

2026-11755 — 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.

2026-11756 — 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.

2026-11759 — 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!

2026-11753 — 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: 2025-09596 — Proposed Extension of Information Collection: Pattern of Violations

The Mine Safety and Health Administration wants to keep collecting info about companies with repeated safety problems. This helps spot trouble spots and keep miners safe. They’re asking for public feedback to make sure the process stays clear and doesn’t waste time or money.

Next: 2025-09599 — Brookfield White Pine Hydro, LLC; Notice of Reasonable Period of Time for Water Quality Certification Application

Brookfield White Pine Hydro, LLC asked Maine’s environmental agency for permission to keep their water clean while running their hydro project. Maine has one year, until May 8, 2026, to approve or deny this request. If they don’t decide by then, the approval is automatically given, which could speed things up for the company and affect local water rules.