Oct. 29, 2025

Commercial Vessel Safety During Lapse in Coast Guard Appropriations

This post outlines the Coast Guard's guidance on commercial vessel safety during a lapse in appropriations, addressing Certificates of Financial Responsibility, Certificates of Documentation, and Merchant Mariner Credentials. It details which operations will continue and which will be limited, and provides specific instructions for vessel owners, operators, and mariners.

Aug. 5, 2025

Solicitation for applications for the National Commercial Fishing Safety Advisory Committee

A Federal Register Notice was published on Tuesday June 17, 2025 with amplifying information regarding solicitation for National Commercial Fishing Safety Advisory Committee membership. Complete applications should reach the U.S. Coast Guard on or before August 18, 2025.

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).

June 7, 2024

Recordkeeping and Reporting Requirements to Document Environmental Compliance on Certain Commercial Vessels Request for Information

The Coast Guard seeks information about the recordkeeping and reporting procedures required under the Coast Guard ballast water regulations issued in 2012 and 2015 and the monitoring, recordkeeping, and reporting required under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 2013 Vessel General Permit (VGP). The Coast Guard plans to use this information to evaluate new and updated solutions that inform data-driven policymaking, reduce the reporting and record-keeping burden on industry, and confirm environmental compliance.