Feb. 20, 2025

Use of Unauthorized Chemicals for Ballast Water Management Systems

The Coast Guard has been made aware of instances of the use of unauthorized chemical products in Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS).

Dec. 23, 2024

Lithium Battery Guide for Shippers

On Nov 21st, 2024, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) finalized a helpful compliance resource, Lithium Battery Guide for Shippers, to assist shippers to safely package lithium cells and batteries for transport by all modes, including vessel shipments, with new regulatory requirements based on cell or battery configuration as well as Watt-hour (Wh) rating.

Dec. 23, 2024

Update to MSIB 13-23 — Coast Guard Policies to Address Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response on Vessels

The Coast Guard has published change 3 to MSIB 13-23 — Coast Guard Policies to Address Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response on Vessels. This update provides further clarity to the existing frequently asked questions from the public regarding changes to Title 46 of the United States Code (U.S.C.) to enhance vessel safety and address sexual assault and sexual harassment.

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.