Marad Modernizes Ship Contract Rules for Smoother Operations
Published Date: 7/1/2025
Rule
Summary
MARAD is updating its rules about service agreements and ship manager contracts to fix errors, modernize language, and clear out old info. This helps agencies and businesses work smoother with clearer, up-to-date guidelines. These changes don’t cost extra and take effect soon to keep things running efficiently.
No Economic Impacts Identified for this Document
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.
2026-16215, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V SILENT RUNNING
The Secretary of Transportation, as represented by MARAD, is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built; certain U.S. built; and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that solely carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received such a determination request and is publishing this notice to solicit comments to assist with determining whether the proposed use of the vessel set forth in the request would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.- built vessels in those businesses. Information about the requestor's vessel, including a description of the proposed service, is in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.
2026-16217, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V HAIDA EXPLORER
The Secretary of Transportation, as represented by MARAD, is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built; certain U.S. built; and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that solely carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received such a determination request and is publishing this notice to solicit comments to assist with determining whether the proposed use of the vessel set forth in the request would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.- built vessels in those businesses. Information about the requestor's vessel, including a description of the proposed service, is in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.
2026-16218, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V MYSTIC PEARL
The Secretary of Transportation, as represented by MARAD, is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built; certain U.S. built; and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that solely carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received such a determination request and is publishing this notice to solicit comments to assist with determining whether the proposed use of the vessel set forth in the request would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.- built vessels in those businesses. Information about the requestor's vessel, including a description of the proposed service, is in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.
2026-16220, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V NOMAD
The Secretary of Transportation, as represented by MARAD, is authorized to make determinations regarding the coastwise use of foreign built; certain U.S. built; and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels that solely carry no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received such a determination request and is publishing this notice to solicit comments to assist with determining whether the proposed use of the vessel set forth in the request would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.- built vessels in those businesses. Information about the requestor's vessel, including a description of the proposed service, is in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below.
2026-15891, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V THE BRASS RING
The Maritime Administration is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat called M/V THE BRASS RING can be used for U.S. coastal trips without hurting American boat builders or businesses. They want your thoughts by September 4, 2026, before making a decision. This could open doors for new boats on U.S. waters but might affect local shipbuilders.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-12093, Pipeline Safety: Standards Update-ASTM F2945
This update changes pipeline safety rules to include the latest ASTM F2945 standard for Polyamide 11 gas pipes and fittings. It helps keep everyone safe, makes rules clearer, and cuts down on paperwork for companies. These changes affect pipeline operators and take effect soon, with no extra costs expected.
Next: 2025-12103, Administrative Updates to the Federal Railroad Administration's Railroad Workplace Safety Regulations
The Federal Railroad Administration is updating some workplace safety rules for railroads, mainly fixing addresses and other small details. These changes affect railroad companies and workers by keeping the rules clear and up to date. No big costs or deadlines—just smooth, simple updates to keep things running safely and smoothly.