Aug. 21, 2026

Request for Comments: Draft Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) 02-99 Change 1 – Guidance on the Streamlined Inspection Program (SIP)

On 24 August 2026, the Coast Guard is scheduled to announce the availability of Navigation and Vessel Inspection Circular (NVIC) 02-99, Change 1, "Guidance on the Streamlined Inspection Program," in the Federal Register 2026-17216 under Docket No. USCG-2026-0041. This proposed update modernizes the program's guidance to reflect industry-wide advancements in digital recordkeeping, maintenance management systems, and third-party auditing, while shifting toward a risk-based verification model. Members of the public are invited to submit comments on the draft circular within 30 days of the publication date.

Nov. 19, 2025

U.S. Coast Guard’s 10th Annual Recognized Organization Summit

On 18 September 2025, the Coast Guard and its recognized organizations advanced data integrity, performance measurement, and emerging-technology oversight to support the Nation’s broader effort to restore American maritime strength.

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.