Government Eases 'American' Proof for Giant Fishing Boats
Published Date: 7/1/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
If you own a U.S.-flag fishing vessel 100 feet or longer, good news! MARAD is making it easier and faster to prove your American citizenship each year by cutting out extra paperwork and protecting your personal info. These changes aim to save you time and money, and they’re open for public feedback now.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Simpler Annual AFA Renewals
If you own a U.S.-flag fishing vessel 100 feet or longer, MARAD proposes an easier annual renewal if your citizenship information has not changed since your AFA Affidavit filing. The change would streamline the yearly filing process under the American Fisheries Act and reduce paperwork and administrative burden for vessel owners.
Remove PII From AFA Affidavits
MARAD proposes eliminating the requirement to include personally identifiable information—specifically social security numbers and dates and places of birth for corporate officers and directors—in AFA affidavits for owners of U.S.-flag fishing vessels 100 feet or longer. The change would protect personal information and reduce sensitive data submission in annual citizenship filings.
New Proof Options for Public Firms
MARAD proposes updating acceptable methods for proving U.S. citizenship for publicly traded entities that own U.S.-flag fishing vessels 100 feet or longer. This change would alter how publicly traded companies demonstrate citizenship for AFA compliance.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-12547, Tanker Security Program
The Tanker Security Program (TSP) helps keep a fleet of U.S.-flagged tankers ready for national defense and security needs. This final rule updates the program based on feedback and sets new rules for which tankers qualify, including limits on government charters. Starting July 23, 2026, eligible tanker owners can receive payments to support their operations, boosting America’s maritime strength and economy.
2026-20761, Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: War Risk Insurance, Applications, and Related Information
The Maritime Administration wants to keep collecting info for war risk insurance, which helps ship owners get coverage when commercial options aren’t available. This insurance protects U.S. trade and ship owners from war-related losses. If you have thoughts, share them by December 8, 2026, to help improve the process without adding extra hassle or cost.
2026-20760, Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Application and Reporting Elements for Participation in the Tanker Security Program
The Maritime Administration wants to renew and update the paperwork for companies running U.S.-registered tankers in the Tanker Security Program. They’re making small changes to the application form and asking for public feedback within 30 days. This keeps the program running smoothly to support national defense without adding big costs or delays.
2026-20584, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BACK OFF
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called M/V BACK OFF should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, and your input can help decide if this move is fair. Comments are due by November 9, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-20587, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BEAR PAW
The U.S. Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BEAR PAW, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are due by November 9, 2026, so speak up if you have thoughts on protecting U.S. maritime jobs and trade!
2026-20588, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BACK OFF
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called M/V BACK OFF should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by November 9, 2026. It’s all about making sure this new vessel won’t hurt American jobs or trade.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-12085, Hazardous Materials: Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Account
If you register hazardous materials, get ready to pay online only—no more paper checks! The Department of Transportation is updating the system to make payments faster and easier for everyone. This change will start soon, helping save time and cut down on paperwork.
Next: 2025-12090, Hazardous Materials: Adoption of Department of Transportation Special Permit 21478
PHMSA is making it easier to transport certain empty hazardous material containers by adopting DOT special permit 21478 into the official rules. This means some containers can move without extra paperwork, labels, or special markings, as long as safety rules are followed. This change helps companies save time and hassle, starting as soon as the new rules go live.