March 7, 2024

Release of CG-CVC Policy Letter 24-01 – Guidance for Determining Inspection Status of Publicly Owned Oceanographic Research Vessels (ORV)

The Coast Guard has published CG-CVC Policy Letter 24-01 – Guidance for Determining Inspection Status of Publicly Owned Oceanographic Research Vessels (ORV). This new policy letter establishes policy and guidance for the evaluation of publicly owned ORVs to determine whether they are subject to vessel inspection requirements under U.S. law.

Jan. 10, 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 2 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.

Jan. 2, 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 an update to MSIB 13-23 — Coast Guard Policies to Address Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response on Vessels. This update includes information on 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. In November of 2023, the Coast Guard released four policy documents to provide compliance guidance.

Dec. 28, 2023

Updated Policy Letter on Implementation of Fire Safety Interim Rule on Small Passenger Vessels

The Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC) announces the publication of Change 1 to policy letter titled “Covered Small Passenger Vessel” Fire Safety Interim Rule Implementation.

Nov. 15, 2023

New Policies Related to Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response on Commercial Vessels

The James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2023 introduced important updates to various laws within Title 46 of the United States Code (U.S.C.) to enhance crew safety and address sexual assault and sexual harassment. Key changes include mandated surveillance systems, crew training, reporting procedures, and master key controls on select vessels.