News from ENS Resources:
House – hearing on maritime transportation regulations
The Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure conducted a hearing entitled “Maritime Transportation Regulations: Impacts on Safety, Security, Jobs and the Environment, Part 1“. The hearing focused on pending rules impacting the safety and security of US ports and waterways, as well as regulations affecting business practices and the viability of the US flag. Rear Admiral Joseph Servidio, USCG, testified about the Coast Guard’s rulemaking process and noted that regulatory development currently takes four years on average before a regulation comes into effect. The Honorable Mario Cordero, Federal Maritime Commission, testified concerning how the FMC has amended its regulations to take into consideration changes within the regulated community. The Honorable Paul “Chip” Jaenichen, Maritime Administration, testified concerning cargo preference and the America’s Marine Highway program, among other things. Mr. Thomas Allegretti, American Waterways Operators, testified about the need for prompt publication of the Coast Guard rule on towing vessel inspection. Captain William Schubert, USA Maritime, testified concerning the importance of cargo preference and the Maritime Security Program. Mr. Ken Franke, Sportfishing Association, testified concerning survival craft safety. Mr. Geoffrey Powell, National Customs Brokers and Forwarders Association, testified concerning the potential adverse impact of the proposed regulations regarding ocean transportation intermediary (OTI) financial responsibility. Rear Admiral Rick Gurnon, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, testified concerning the increasing regulatory burden on the maritime academies and the importance of replacing the aging training ships. Mr. Patrick Wojahn, National Disability Rights Network, testified concerning accessibility issues relating to survival craft. (9/10/13).
