Coastwise Trade Waiver Sought for Foreign-Built Ferry
Published Date: 7/20/2026
Notice
Summary
The government is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V PORTS-NORTH, operate in U.S. coastal waters carrying up to 12 paying passengers. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels. You have until August 19, 2026, to share your opinion before they decide if this is a good or bad move.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign-Built Boat May Enter Coastwise Trade
The Maritime Administration is asking whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V PORTS-NORTH should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying no more than 12 paying passengers. MARAD is seeking public comments on whether allowing this use would have an adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels. Comments must be submitted by August 19, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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