Dec. 16, 2024

Final Rule: Updated Document Submission Process for Compliance with Electronic Records Mandate

The Coast Guard is issuing a final rule to update regulations that reflect the Coast Guard National Vessel Documentation Center’s processes and capabilities, as well as align regulations with statutory reporting timelines. The processes noted pertain to electronic file submissions, requirements for submission of original build evidence, and return of existing Certificates of Documentation (CODs). In addition, the time period related to reporting changes to COD information is updated to align with statute.

Nov. 5, 2024

Invasive (freshwater mussel) detected in California

On Nov 1 2024, the Coast Guard Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance was notified by the State of California on the detection and identification of golden mussel (Limnoperna Fortunie) in the Port of Stockton. The Golden Mussels are similar in appearance, biology, and impacts to the quagga and zebra mussel, posing a future threat to infrastructure and water quality.

Nov. 1, 2024

REMINDER: 46 U.S.C. § 4901 Upcoming Compliance on December 23, 2024

Title 46 of the United States Code (U.S.C.) § 4901(c)(1) requires the installation of video and audio surveillance equipment aboard applicable vessels not later than December 23, 2024, or during the next scheduled drydock, whichever is later. The term “next scheduled drydock” is used without distinction of survey, the next scheduled drydocking in this case being scheduled for out of the water inspection or survey. This means that if a vessel had a scheduled drydock between December 23, 2022, and December 23, 2024, then the vessel must comply by December 23, 2024. If no scheduled drydock occurred between December 23, 2022, and December 23, 2024, then the vessel must comply by the next drydock date after December 23, 2024.

Oct. 3, 2024

Update to CVC Policy Letter 23-05 — Guidance on Surveillance Requirements for Certain Commercial Vessels That Do Not Carry Passengers

The Coast Guard has published change 1 to CVC Policy Letter 23-05 — Guidance on Surveillance Requirements for Certain Commercial Vessels That Do Not Carry Passengers. This update provides further clarity to the existing guidance regarding Title 46 of the United States Code (U.S.C.) to enhance vessel safety and address sexual assault and sexual harassment through mandated surveillance systems. The list of Policy Letters and Work Instructions can also be viewed on the Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC) website.

Aug. 28, 2024

CVC Policy Letter 24-02 "Application of Fishing Vessel Construction Requirements”

CG-CVC has recently released CVC Policy Letter 24-02 “Application of Fishing Vessel Construction Requirements.” This directive communicates the Coast Guards thinking on applicable requirements that pertain to commercial fishing industry vessels as specified in 46 United States U.S. Code (U.S.C.) § 4503.