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33 U.S.C. 1202: DefinitionsText contains those laws in effect through Public Law 119-120 (October 7, 2026).
From Title 33-NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERSCHAPTER 24-VESSEL BRIDGE-TO-BRIDGE COMMUNICATION

§1202. Definitions

For the purpose of this chapter⁠—

(1)  “Secretary” means the Secretary of the Department in which the Coast Guard is operating;

(2)  “power-driven vessel” means any vessel propelled by machinery; and

(3)  “towing vessel” means any commercial vessel engaged in towing another vessel astern, alongside, or by pushing ahead.

( Pub. L. 92–63, § 3 , Aug. 4, 1971 , 85 Stat. 164 .)

Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

Effective Date

Section effective May 1, 1971, or six months after the promulgation of regulations which would implement its provisions, whichever is later, see section 10 of Pub. L. 92–63, set out as a note under section 1201 of this title.

Transfer of Functions

For transfer of authorities, functions, personnel, and assets of the Coast Guard, including the authorities and functions of the Secretary of Transportation relating thereto, to the Department of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see sections 468(b), 551(d), 552(d), and 557 of Title 6, Domestic Security, and the Department of Homeland Security Reorganization Plan of November 25, 2002, as modified, set out as a note under section 542 of Title 6.