Thunderbolt Foreign Vessel Asks for U.S. Waters Access

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.

2026-14484 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V RUSH HOUR

The government is thinking about allowing a foreign-built small passenger boat called M/V RUSH HOUR to operate in U.S. coastal waters. They want to hear from people by August 17, 2026, to make sure this won’t hurt American boat builders or businesses using U.S.-built vessels. If approved, this could change who’s allowed to run small passenger boats here, so it’s a big deal for the boating community and local businesses.

2026-14482 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V MAMBO

The government is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V MAMBO, 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 hear from the public by August 17, 2026. If approved, it might shake up the small passenger vessel scene but won’t cost taxpayers directly.

2026-14485 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V TEXAS CORSAIR

The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V TEXAS CORSAIR should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by August 17, 2026. It’s a chance to weigh in on protecting American jobs while welcoming new vessels.

2026-14483 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V PIRATE CAT

The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on a request to let the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V PIRATE CAT operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, and the agency wants to make sure it won’t hurt them. Comments are due by August 17, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!

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.

Previous: 2026-14485 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V TEXAS CORSAIR

The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel S/V TEXAS CORSAIR should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using U.S.-built vessels, with comments due by August 17, 2026. It’s a chance to weigh in on protecting American jobs while welcoming new vessels.

Next: 2026-14487 — Northern Illinois Hydropower, LLC; Notice of Availability of Environmental Assessment

Northern Illinois Hydropower wants to change how the Dresden Island Lock and Dam works, but the government checked and says it won’t harm the environment. People living nearby and energy users might notice some updates, but no big problems or costs are expected. You’ve got until August 13, 2026, to share your thoughts before the final decision is made.