Foreign 'HEY BAY' Boat Eyes US Coastal Passenger Runs

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.

2026-13502 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V DEUCE

The Maritime Administration is asking for your thoughts on letting the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V DEUCE operate in U.S. coastal waters. This could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels, so they want to make sure it won’t hurt local jobs or trade. You’ve got until August 5, 2026, to share your opinion and help shape the decision!

2026-13498 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V MEAT WAGON 2

The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called M/V MEAT WAGON 2 should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels. Comments are open until August 5, 2026, so speak up if you have thoughts on this trade change!

2026-13501 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V GRACIE

The government is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the S/V GRACIE, operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 paying passengers. This could affect U.S. boat builders and local businesses, so they want to make sure it won’t hurt them. You have until August 5, 2026, to share your opinion—no fees involved, just your voice!

2026-13499 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V LADY SUSAN

The government is asking for your thoughts on letting the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V LADY SUSAN operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 paying passengers. This could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels, so your feedback matters! Comments are open until August 5, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in.

2026-13500 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V KINGSLEY

The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the S/V KINGSLEY, 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 U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by August 5, 2026. It’s a chance to weigh in on protecting American jobs while considering new vessel use.

Previous: 2025-16690 — Data Collection Available for Public Comments

The Small Business Administration wants to collect some new information and is asking the public for their thoughts before moving forward. This affects small businesses and anyone who might need to share info with the SBA. You’ve got 60 days to speak up, and no big costs are expected from this step.

Next: 2025-16692 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V DAY TRIPPER

MARAD is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat called M/V DAY TRIPPER 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 American-made vessels, before making a decision. This is your chance to weigh in and help shape the future of local boat trade!