Foreign Boat Invasion? MARAD Mulls M/V YAMUY's U.S. Voyage

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: 2025-14898, Paper File Folders From Cambodia and Sri Lanka; Cancellation of Hearing for Antidumping and Countervailing Duty Investigations.

The U.S. International Trade Commission has canceled the hearing on whether to add extra taxes on paper file folders from Cambodia and Sri Lanka. The main group involved asked to skip the hearing but will still answer questions in writing by August 12, 2025. This change speeds up the process and affects importers and domestic folder makers watching these trade rules.

Next: 2025-14902, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V SUNBELLE

MARAD is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V SUNBELLE, can be used for U.S. coastal trips carrying up to 12 passengers. 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 along U.S. shores, so keep an eye out for comment deadlines!