Coast Guard Proposes Changes to Maritime Security Program Vessel Inspections

U.S.-flag vessels eligible to participate in the U.S. Maritime Security Program are also eligible for favorable inspection and certification treatment under U.S. law. On June 19, 2014, the U.S. Coast Guard proposed amending the Navigation and Inspection Circular 01-13 governing the inspection and certification of MSP-eligible vessels. Specifically, the Coast Guard has proposed changes to the requirements for vessels which have unmanned engine rooms with regard to trial periods and certification for those vessels which do not otherwise meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements. Public comments are due by August 18, 2014.