NOAA Eyes Tech Over Speed Limits to Save Rare Right Whales
Published Date: 3/4/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
NOAA is thinking about updating the rules that slow down boats to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale. They want to swap some seasonal speed limits for smarter, tech-based ways to keep whales safe while making life easier and less costly for boaters. If you have ideas, speak up by June 2, 2026!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Seasonal Speed Limits May Be Replaced
NOAA is considering replacing current seasonal 10-knot speed limits in designated Seasonal Management Areas (SMAs) with dynamic, technology-based measures and real-time notifications. This change is explicitly framed to reduce unnecessary regulatory and economic burdens on boaters and the regulated community while maintaining or enhancing whale conservation.
Which Vessels Face 10-Knot Rule May Change
The current speed rule requires most vessels equal to or greater than 65 feet (19.8 m) to transit at 10 knots or less in SMAs; NOAA is explicitly seeking data on the economic and safety impacts of keeping the 65-foot threshold versus a less restrictive threshold. Changing that threshold would change which vessels must follow the 10-knot requirement and could reduce or expand obligations for operators around that size.
More Flexibility for Small-Vessel Safety Deviations
NOAA is seeking recommendations to update the speed-rule safety deviation provision (50 CFR 224.105(c)) to provide greater flexibility for vessel operators, noting possible safety risks of a 10-knot limit on smaller vessels in open ocean or adverse weather. If adopted, the change could let some small vessels deviate from the 10-knot limit for safety reasons, affecting operational choices in adverse conditions.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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