Dec. 22, 2024

U.S. Coast Guard Releases Report of Investigation Regarding Fire, Total Constructive Loss of Passenger Vessel Spirit of Norfolk

The Coast Guard’s Office of Investigations and Casualty Analysis (CG-INV) recently posted a Report of Investigation (ROI) to the Marine Casualty Reports (uscg.mil) website regarding the fire onboard the small passenger vessel Spirit of Norfolk in Norfolk, VA, on June 7, 2022.

Dec. 18, 2024

Final Rule: Mariner Credentialing Program Transformation

The Coast Guard has issued a Final Rule updating the accepted payment method for required mariner credentialing fees, removing the requirement for prospective mariners to take an oath before an authorized official, and changes the format requirements for the Certificates of Discharge.

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.

Dec. 13, 2024

Final Rule (FR): Great Lakes Pilotage Rates – 2025 Annual Review

The Coast Guard has established new pilotage rates for the 2025 shipping season.

Dec. 13, 2024

Lifejacket Approval Harmonization; Final Rule

The Coast Guard amends the approval requirements and follow-up program requirements for lifejackets and personal flotation devices by incorporating new standards to replace existing legacy standards.