Foreign Top Cat Boat Seeks U.S. Passenger Trade Slot

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: 2026-05295, Notice of Inventory Completion: Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, Division of Archaeology, Nashville, TN

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation has finished checking human remains found near the Tennessee River and confirmed they belong to Native American ancestors linked to local tribes. Starting April 17, 2026, these remains can be returned to the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas and other affiliated tribes. This important step respects Native American heritage and follows legal rules, with no costs mentioned.

Next: 2026-05297, New England Fishery Management Council; Public Meeting

The New England Fishery Management Council is holding a public meeting on April 1, 2026, to talk about managing small-mesh fisheries and new risk rules that could affect fishing limits. Fishermen, fishery managers, and coastal communities will want to tune in, as decisions made here could impact fishing rules and the local economy. You can join in person in Rhode Island or online via webinar—easy and open to all!