Uncle Sam Paws at Foreign 'Bear Paw' Boat in U.S. Waters
Published Date: 10/8/2026
Notice
Summary
The U.S. Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BEAR PAW, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are due by November 9, 2026, so speak up if you have thoughts on protecting U.S. maritime jobs and trade!
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Foreign-built 12-passenger vessel request
If you are a U.S. vessel builder or a business that uses U.S.-built vessels, MARAD received a request to allow the foreign-built M/V BEAR PAW to operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying up to 12 passengers for hire. MARAD is asking for public comments by November 9, 2026, on whether allowing this vessel would have an undue adverse effect on U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-20586, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V FUN-SEAS
The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V FUN-SEAS, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are open until November 9, 2026, so jump in and share your thoughts before then!
Next: 2026-20588, Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BACK OFF
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel called M/V BACK OFF 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 November 9, 2026. It’s all about making sure this new vessel won’t hurt American jobs or trade.