March 18, 2024

Announcement: Clarification on Interconnected Fire Systems Onboard Covered Small Passenger Vessels

The Coast Guard published an interim rule on December 27, 2021, to implement Congressionally-mandated requirements for fire safety on “covered small passenger vessels” (CSPVs), as defined by 46 U.S.C. 3306(n). Congress adopted the statutory mandate in response to the fire and loss of 34 lives onboard the dive boat CONCEPTION off the California coast on 02 September 2019.  The USCG has identified a need to clarify the reference in 46 CFR 175.110(c) with respect to fire detection systems. 

March 15, 2024

Rear Admiral Arguin Discusses Coast Guard Priorities at CMA 2024

Rear Adm. Wayne Arguin, Assistant Commandant for Prevention Policy, addressed maritime industry stakeholders at the 2024 Connecticut Maritime Association (CMA) Conference in Stamford, Connecticut, March 12, 2024, highlighting the Coast Guard's strategic priorities and their impact on the maritime domain.

March 15, 2024

Notice of Proposed Rulemaking: Mariner Credentialing Program Transformation

The Coast Guard has published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register proposing updates to the Merchant Mariner Credentialing Program (MCP) for the submission of information, fee payments, and technical updates.

March 13, 2024

The The Joint ILO/IMO Tripartite Working Group to Identify and Address Seafarers’ Issues, Human Element Recommends Actions to Address Violence, Sexual Harassment, Bullying, and Assault

The second meeting of the Joint International Labour Organization (ILO)/International Maritime Organization (IMO) Tripartite Working Group to Identify and Address Seafarers' Issues and the Human Element (JTWG) met at the IMO Headquarters from February 27-29, 2024, to consider bullying and harassment in the maritime sector, including sexual assault and sexual harassment, and provide recommendations for future steps to address these issues and ensure a safe working environment for seafarers.

March 13, 2024

National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee Meeting

The Office of Merchant Mariner Credentialing is hosting the seventh meeting of the National Merchant Marine Personnel Advisory Committee (NMERPAC) March 26-27, 2024, in Edmonds, Washington, at Compass Courses.