M/V Brass Ring Grabs for US Coastwise Trade Loophole
Published Date: 8/5/2026
Notice
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Review of Foreign-Built 12-Passenger Vessel
The Maritime Administration is deciding whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V THE BRASS RING can operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying no more than 12 passengers for hire under 46 U.S.C. 12121(b). MARAD will determine if that use would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or on coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels; public comments are due by September 4, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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