PTO Boat from Abroad Eyes American Vacation Waters?
Published Date: 9/24/2025
Notice
Summary
MARAD is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V PTO, can be used for U.S. coastal trips carrying up to 12 passengers. They want to hear from folks who might be affected, like U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels, before making a decision. If you have thoughts, now’s the time to share—this could impact local jobs and coastal trade soon!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign M/V PTO May Compete
MARAD is asking whether the foreign-built vessel M/V PTO can be used in U.S. coastwise trade to carry no more than 12 passengers for hire. They are soliciting comments to decide if allowing this would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders who make American boats.
Coastwise Operators Could Be Affected
MARAD seeks public comment on whether using the foreign-built M/V PTO in U.S. coastal service (carrying up to 12 passengers for hire) would adversely affect U.S. coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. Businesses that operate U.S.-built passenger services are the group MARAD specifically asks commenters to consider.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous: 2025-18503, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V JENNIFER MAY
MARAD is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V JENNIFER MAY, can be used for U.S. coastal trips. They want to hear from people who think this might hurt U.S. boat builders or businesses before making a decision. If approved, this could change who’s allowed to run small passenger vessels along U.S. shores, so keep an eye out and share your thoughts soon!
Next: 2025-18505, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V Sarita
MARAD is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V Sarita, can be used for U.S. coastal trips carrying up to 12 passengers. They want to hear from folks who think this might hurt U.S. boat builders or businesses using American-made vessels. If you care about boats or coastal trade, now’s the time to speak up before a decision is made!