§4901 Surveillance Requirements

Summary

Commercial vessels that do not carry passengers must have video and audio cameras if they meet certain size, distance, or time rules. The rule applies to three groups: documented vessels with overnight rooms for at least 10 people that either travel 600 miles or more and go seaward of the Boundary Line, or are at least 24 meters (79 feet) long and need a load line; documented vessels of at least 500 gross tons (as measured under section 14502) or an alternate tonnage under sections 14302/14104 when on an international voyage; and vessels with overnight rooms for at least 10 people operating at least 72 hours on waters over the outer Continental Shelf. Fishing vessels, fish processing vessels, and fish tender vessels are excluded. Owners (meaning the owner, charterer, managing operator, master, or other person in charge) must install the system not later than 2 years after enactment of the Don Young Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2022, or at the next scheduled drydock, whichever is later. Cameras must cover hallways where stateroom doors open so every door is visible. The crew must be clearly notified of recording. Recordings must be kept at least 1 year, and any footage tied to an alleged incident must be kept at least 5 years. Recordings cannot be used in labor or employment disputes unless they are part of a criminal or civil case. Owners and employers must train staff to preserve evidence objectively, act impartially, and follow federal, State, Tribal, and local rules for sexual assault and harassment reporting.