S/V WINDCHASER Sails into U.S. Trade Waiver Request
Published Date: 7/23/2025
Notice
Summary
MARAD is checking if the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V WINDCHASER can be used for U.S. coastwise trade without hurting American boat builders or businesses. They’re asking for public comments to help decide. If approved, this could change who’s allowed to operate certain passenger boats along U.S. coasts, so keep an eye out for deadlines and possible impacts on local businesses.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Risk to U.S. Vessel Builders
MARAD is reviewing a request to allow the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V WINDCHASER to be used in U.S. coastwise trade. The agency is asking whether that proposed use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. The review explicitly covers vessels that carry no more than twelve passengers for hire.
Possible Change to Who May Operate Passenger Boats
If MARAD approves the request for the foreign-built S/V WINDCHASER, it could change who is allowed to operate certain passenger boats along U.S. coasts. The vessel at issue is a small passenger vessel that would carry no more than twelve passengers for hire, and MARAD is soliciting public comments to inform that decision.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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