Government Eases 'American' Proof for Giant Fishing Boats

2026-06110 — Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Eligibility of US-Flag Vessels of 100 Feet or Greater in Registered Length To Obtain a Fishery Endorsement

The Maritime Administration wants to keep collecting info to check if big U.S.-flagged boats (100 feet or longer) qualify for a special fishery endorsement. This helps make sure these boats are owned and controlled by U.S. citizens. If you’re involved with these vessels, you can share your thoughts by May 29, 2026—no cost, just your feedback to keep things running smoothly!

2026-06109 — Request for Comments on the Renewal of a Previously Approved Information Collection: Capital Construction Fund and Exhibits

The Maritime Administration wants to keep collecting info from people who use the Capital Construction Fund, which helps build and improve ships. Fewer folks are responding now, so they’re asking for your thoughts on how to make the process easier and clearer. If you’re involved in shipbuilding or financing, speak up by May 29, 2026, to help shape the rules without adding extra hassle or costs.

2026-05296 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V TOP CAT

The government is checking if a foreign-built small passenger boat called M/V TOP CAT can be used for U.S. coastal trips carrying up to 12 paying passengers. They want to make sure this won’t hurt American boat builders or businesses using U.S.-built vessels. If you have thoughts, you’ve got until April 17, 2026, to share them—so don’t miss out!

2026-05302 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V AISLING

The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the S/V AISLING, operate in U.S. coastal waters. This could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses that use American-made vessels. If you want to share your opinion, make sure to comment by April 17, 2026!

2026-05308 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, M/V BROADWAY GIRL

The government is asking for your thoughts on letting a foreign-built small passenger boat, the M/V BROADWAY GIRL, 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. If you want to share your opinion, make sure to comment by April 17, 2026!

2026-05307 — Request Notice: Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel in United States Coastwise Trade, S/V CAT 5

The U.S. Department of Transportation is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the S/V CAT 5, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade carrying up to 12 passengers. This decision could affect U.S. boat builders and businesses using American-made vessels. Comments are open until April 17, 2026, so now’s the time to speak up if you care about local shipbuilding and coastal business!

Previous: 2025-12085 — Hazardous Materials: Modernizing Payments To and From America's Bank Account

If you register hazardous materials, get ready to pay online only—no more paper checks! The Department of Transportation is updating the system to make payments faster and easier for everyone. This change will start soon, helping save time and cut down on paperwork.

Next: 2025-12090 — Hazardous Materials: Adoption of Department of Transportation Special Permit 21478

PHMSA is making it easier to transport certain empty hazardous material containers by adopting DOT special permit 21478 into the official rules. This means some containers can move without extra paperwork, labels, or special markings, as long as safety rules are followed. This change helps companies save time and hassle, starting as soon as the new rules go live.