Part F—Manning of Vessels
Historical and Revision Notes
Part F provides for the manning of vessels including requirements generally for the number of individuals required, qualifications and conditions of employment, and duties; for masters and other licenses and registered individuals; for pilots; for unlicensed personnel; for small vessels; for tank vessels; and for pilotage on the Great Lakes. The Committee intends that all manning provisions throughout this subtitle will be interpreted to be consistent with one another.
CHAPTER 81 —GENERAL
Historical and Revision Notes
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2018—
2014—
2010—
2006—
1996—
1990—
§8101. Complement of inspected vessels
(a) The certificate of inspection issued to a vessel under part B of this subtitle shall state the complement of licensed individuals and crew (including lifeboatmen) considered by the Secretary to be necessary for safe operation. A manning requirement imposed on—
(1) a sailing school vessel shall consider the participation of sailing school instructors and sailing school students in the operation of that vessel;
(2) a mobile offshore drilling unit shall consider the specialized nature of the unit; and
(3) a tank vessel shall consider the navigation, cargo handling, and maintenance functions of that vessel for protection of life, property, and the environment.
(b) The Secretary may modify the complement, by endorsement on the certificate, for reasons of changed conditions or employment.
(c) A requirement made under this section by an authorized official may be appealed to the Secretary under prescribed regulations.
(d) A vessel to which this section applies may not be operated without having in its service the complement required in the certificate of inspection.
(e) When a vessel is deprived of the service of a member of its complement without the consent, fault, or collusion of the owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of the vessel, the master shall engage, if obtainable, a number of members equal to the number of those of whose services the master has been deprived. The replacements must be of the same or a higher grade or rating than those whose places they fill. If the master finds the vessel is sufficiently manned for the voyage, and replacements are not available to fill all the vacancies, the vessel may proceed on its voyage. Within 12 hours after the vessel arrives at its destination, the master shall report in writing to the Secretary the cause of each deficiency in the complement. A master failing to make the report is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $1,000 for each deficiency.
(f) The owner, charterer, or managing operator of a vessel not manned as required by this section is liable to the Government for a civil penalty of $10,000.
(g) A person may not employ an individual as, and an individual may not serve as, a master, mate, engineer, radio officer, or pilot of a vessel to which this part applies or which is subject to inspection under
(h) The owner, charterer, or managing operator of a freight vessel of less than 100 gross tons as measured under
(i) When the 2 next most senior licensed officers on a vessel reasonably believe that the master or individual in charge of the vessel is under the influence of alcohol or a dangerous drug and is incapable of commanding the vessel, the next most senior master, mate, or operator licensed under section 7101(c)(1) or (3) of this title shall—
(1) temporarily relieve the master or individual in charge;
(2) temporarily take command of the vessel;
(3) in the case of a vessel required to have a log under
(4) report those details to the Secretary—
(A) by the most expeditious means available; and
(B) in written form transmitted within 12 hours after the vessel arrives at its next port.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8101 | 46:222 46:224 46:446d |
Section 8101 provides for the required composition of the complement of licensed individuals and crew of an inspected vessel when being operated.
Subsection (a) requires that the certificate of inspection for a vessel state the manning necessary for safe navigation. Manning means the complement of licensed officers and crew (including lifeboatmen). Any manning requirements for sailing school vessels shall take into account the participation of sailing school instructors and sailing school students in the operation of those vessels.
Subsection (b) permits the Secretary to modify the manning requirements for reasons of changed conditions or employment.
Subsection (c) permits an appeal to the Secretary of any manning requirements made by an authorized official.
Subsection (d) prohibits the operation of a vessel without the manning required in the vessel's certificate of inspection.
When a vessel has a vacancy in the manning required by its certificate of inspection without the consent, fault, or collusion of anyone responsible for the management or operation of the vessel, subsection (e) requires that the master hire replacements, if possible, in the same or higher grade or rating. However, if the master finds the vessel sufficiently manned and replacements are not available, the vessel may proceed on its voyage. Within 12 hours of arrival at its destination, the master is required to file a written report with the Secretary stating the cause of each deficiency or be liable for a civil penalty. The report of deficiency should include both the reason for the vacancy in the first instance and the reason for the unavailability of a qualified replacement.
Subsections (f), (g) and (h) prescribe civil penalties for noncompliance with manning requirements. Subsection (g) also prohibits the employment or service of an individual in a licensed capacity who is not licensed by the Secretary.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Subsec. (h).
1990—Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (f).
Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (i).
1986—Subsec. (a).
1984—Subsec. (g).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by
§8102. Watchmen
(a) The owner, charterer, or managing operator of a vessel carrying passengers during the nighttime shall keep a suitable number of watchmen in the vicinity of the cabins or staterooms and on each deck to guard against and give alarm in case of a fire or other danger. An owner, charterer, or managing operator failing to provide watchmen required by this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $1,000.
(b) The owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of a fish processing vessel of more than 100 gross tons as measured under
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8102 | 46:470 46:471 |
Section 8102 requires the person responsible for the management of a vessel carrying passengers to have a suitable watch at night to guard against, and to sound an alarm in case of fire or other danger, or be liable for a civil penalty.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Subsec. (b).
1984—
§8103. Citizenship and Navy Reserve requirements
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this title, only a citizen of the United States may serve as master, chief engineer, radio officer, or officer in charge of a deck watch or engineering watch on a documented vessel.
(b)(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, on a documented vessel—
(A) each unlicensed seaman must be—
(i) a citizen of the United States;
(ii) an alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence; or
(iii) a foreign national who is enrolled in the United States Merchant Marine Academy; and
(B) not more than 25 percent of the total number of unlicensed seamen on the vessel may be aliens lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence.
(2) Paragraph (1) of this subsection does not apply to—
(A) a yacht;
(B) a fishing vessel fishing exclusively for highly migratory species (as that term is defined in section 3 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (
(C) a fishing vessel fishing outside of the exclusive economic zone.
(3) The Secretary may waive a citizenship requirement under this section, other than a requirement that applies to the master of a documented vessel, with respect to—
(A) an offshore supply vessel or other similarly engaged vessel of less than 1,600 gross tons as measured under
(B) a mobile offshore drilling unit or other vessel engaged in support of exploration, exploitation, or production of offshore mineral energy resources operating beyond the water above the outer Continental Shelf (as that term is defined in section 2(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (
(C) any other vessel if the Secretary determines, after an investigation, that qualified seamen who are citizens of the United States are not available.
(c) On each departure of a vessel (except a passenger vessel) for which a construction differential subsidy has been granted, all of the seamen of the vessel must be citizens of the United States.
(d)(1) On each departure of a passenger vessel for which a construction differential subsidy has been granted, at least 90 percent of the entire complement (including licensed individuals) must be citizens of the United States.
(2) An individual not required by this subsection to be a citizen of the United States may be engaged only if the individual has a declaration of intention to become a citizen of the United States or other evidence of admission to the United States for permanent residence. An alien may be employed only in the steward's department of the passenger vessel.
(e) If a documented vessel is deprived for any reason of the services of an individual (except the master and the radio officer) when on a foreign voyage and a vacancy consequently occurs, until the vessel's return to a port at which in the most expeditious manner a replacement who is a citizen of the United States can be obtained, an individual not a citizen of the United States may serve in—
(1) the vacancy; or
(2) a vacancy resulting from the promotion of another individual to fill the original vacancy.
(f) A person employing an individual in violation of this section or a regulation prescribed under this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $500 for each individual so employed.
(g) A deck or engineer officer employed on a vessel on which an operating differential subsidy is paid, or employed on a vessel (except a vessel of the Coast Guard or Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation) owned or operated by the Department of Transportation or by a corporation organized or controlled by the Department, if eligible, shall be a member of the Navy Reserve.
(h) The President may—
(1) suspend any part of this section during a proclaimed national emergency; and
(2) when the needs of commerce require, suspend as far and for a period the President considers desirable, subsection (a) of this section for crews of vessels of the United States documented for foreign trade.
(i)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (3) of this subsection, each unlicensed seaman on a fishing, fish processing, or fish tender vessel that is engaged in the fisheries in the navigable waters of the United States or the exclusive economic zone must be—
(A) a citizen of the United States;
(B) an alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence;
(C) any other alien allowed to be employed under the Immigration and Nationality Act (
(D) an alien allowed to be employed under the immigration laws of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands if the vessel is permanently stationed at a port within the Commonwealth and the vessel is engaged in the fisheries within the exclusive economic zone surrounding the Commonwealth or another United States territory or possession.
(2) Not more than 25 percent of the unlicensed seamen on a vessel subject to paragraph (1) of this subsection may be aliens referred to in clause (C) of that paragraph.
(3) This subsection does not apply to a fishing vessel fishing exclusively for highly migratory species (as that term is defined in section 3 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (
(j)
(k)
(1)
(A) a citizen of the United States;
(B) an alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence;
(C) an alien allowed to be employed in the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act (
(D) a foreign national who is enrolled in the United States Merchant Marine Academy.
(2)
(3)
(A)
(i) shall have been employed, for a period of not less than 1 year, on a passenger vessel under the same common ownership or control as the vessel described in paragraph (1) of this subsection, as certified by the owner or managing operator of such vessel to the Secretary;
(ii) shall have no record of material disciplinary actions during such employment, as verified in writing by the owner or managing operator of such vessel to the Secretary;
(iii) shall have successfully completed a United States Government security check of the relevant domestic and international databases, as appropriate, or any other national security-related information or database;
(iv) shall have successfully undergone an employer background check—
(I) for which the owner or managing operator provides a signed report to the Secretary that describes the background checks undertaken that are reasonably and legally available to the owner or managing operator including personnel file information obtained from such seaman and from databases available to the public with respect to the seaman;
(II) that consisted of a search of all information reasonably available to the owner or managing operator in the seaman's country of citizenship and any other country in which the seaman receives employment referrals, or resides;
(III) that is kept on the vessel and available for inspection by the Secretary; and
(IV) the information derived from which is made available to the Secretary upon request; and
(v) may not be a citizen or temporary or permanent resident of a country designated by the United States as a sponsor of terrorism or any other country that the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the heads of other appropriate United States agencies, determines to be a security threat to the United States.
(B)
(i) may be employed only in the steward's department of the vessel; and
(ii) may not perform watchstanding, automated engine room duty watch, or vessel navigation functions.
(C)
(i) is deemed to meet the nationality requirements necessary to qualify for a merchant mariner's document notwithstanding the requirements of part 12 of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations;
(ii) is deemed to meet the proof-of-identity requirements necessary to qualify for a merchant mariner's document, as prescribed under regulations promulgated by the Secretary, if the seaman possesses—
(I) an unexpired passport issued by the government of the country of which the seaman is a citizen or subject; and
(II) an unexpired visa issued to the seaman, as described in paragraph (1)(C);
(iii) shall, if eligible, be issued a merchant mariner's document with an appropriate annotation reflecting the restrictions of subparagraph (B) of this paragraph; and
(iv) may be employed for a period of service on board not to exceed 36 months in the aggregate as a nonimmigrant crewman described in section 101(a)(15)(D)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (
(4)
(5)
(A)
(B)
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8103 | 46:221 46:236 46:672(h) 46:672a 46:690 46:1132 |
Section 8103 sets forth the requirements for citizenship and Naval Reserve membership for the complement on a vessel documented under the laws of the United States.
Subsection (a) requires that the master, chief engineer, or officer in charge of a deck or engineering watch on a United States documented vessel be a United States citizen.
Subsection (b) requires that 75 percent of the seamen, excluding licensed individuals, on a United States documented vessel be United States citizens, except for a fishing or whaling vessel or yacht. The Secretary may reduce the percentage if the Secretary decides on investigation that United States seamen are not available. This investigation and percentage reduction authority is the sole responsibility of the Secretary of Transportation and accordingly the Secretary is to make these decisions expeditiously, promptly, and independently so as not to be dependent on any other agency to make this reduction. The Committee believes the Secretary is capable of this decision and need not delay or fail to make the decision because some other agency does not have the information or would require an extended period to acquire that information. The phrase "for any reason" is used merely to emphasize the complete discretion of the Secretary in making this decision. In addition, because this decision is based on an investigation, formal procedures of the Administrative Procedure Act do not apply.
Subsections (c) and (d) provide that a vessel, except a passenger vessel, on departure from the United States that has been granted a construction or operating differential subsidy have a higher percentage citizenship requirement. Subsection (c) requires all of the crew and employees of a cargo vessel be United States citizens. Subsection (d) requires at least 90 percent of the entire complement of a passenger vessel be United States citizens. The phrase "including all licensed individuals" emphasizes that all licensed individuals are required to be United States citizens as required by subsection (a) and that they compose part of the 90 percent requirement under this subsection. Further, under subsection (d), the balance of the complement must be individuals who have a declaration of intention to become a United States citizen or evidence of admission to the United States as a permanent resident and may only be employed in the steward's department of the passenger vessel.
Except for the master, subsection (e) permits a non-United States citizen to fill a vacancy that occurs for any reason on a United States documented vessel during a foreign voyage until the vessel returns to a United States port where a United States citizen replacement can be obtained. The phrase "for any reason" is used merely for emphasis.
Subsection (f) provides for the penalty for violation of this section.
Subsection (g) requires a deck or engineer officer on a vessel that has been granted an operating differential subsidy or is under the control by the Department of Transportation to be, if eligible, a member of the Naval Reserve. This section does not apply to a vessel of the Coast Guard or the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation.
Subsection (h) permits the President to suspend the requirements of this section during a proclaimed national emergency or the requirement of subsection (a) for United States vessels documented for foreign trade when the needs of commerce require.
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Immigration and Nationality Act, referred to in subsecs. (i)(1)(C) and (k)(1)(C), is act June 27, 1952, ch. 477,
Amendments
2021—Subsec. (k)(3)(C).
2020—Subsec. (g).
2016—Subsec. (b)(1)(A)(iii).
Subsecs. (c), (d)(1).
2008—Subsec. (k)(3)(C)(iv).
2006—
Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (j).
Subsec. (k).
2004—Subsec. (b)(1)(A).
1996—Subsec. (b)(2)(B).
Subsec. (b)(3)(A).
Subsec. (i)(1)(D).
Subsec. (i)(3).
1990—Subsec. (i)(3)(C).
1988—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (b).
Subsecs. (c), (d)(1).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (i).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Effective Date of 1988 Amendment
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
Distant Water Tuna Fleet
"(a)
"(1)
"(2)
"(b)
"(1)
"(2)
"(c)
"(d)
"(1) The number and identity of vessels in the fleet using foreign citizens to meet manning requirements pursuant to this section and any marine casualties involving such vessel.
"(2) The number of vessels in the fishery under United States flag as of January 1 of the year in which the report is submitted, the percentage ownership or control of such vessels by non-United States citizens, and the nationality of such ownership or control.
"(3) Description of any transfers or sales of United States flag vessels in the previous calendar year, and the disposition of such vessel, including whether the vessel was scrapped or sold, and, if sold, the nationality of the new owner and location of any fishery to which the vessel will be transferred.
"(4) Landings of tuna by vessels under flag in the 2 previous calendar years, including an assessment of landing trends, and a description of landing percentages and totals—
"(A) delivered to American Samoa and any other port in a State or territory of the United States; and
"(B) delivered to ports outside of a State or territory of the United States, including the identity of the port.
"(5) An evaluation of capacity and trends in the purse seine fleet fishing in the area covered by the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Treaty, and any transfer of capacity from such fleet or area to other fisheries, including those governed under the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Convention and the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Convention."
Application of Section to Fishing Vessels in California
"(a)
"(b)
§8104. Watches
(a) An owner, charterer, managing operator, master, individual in charge, or other person having authority may permit an officer to take charge of the deck watch on a vessel when leaving or immediately after leaving port only if the officer has been off duty for at least 6 hours within the 12 hours immediately before the time of leaving.
(b) On an oceangoing or coastwise vessel of not more than 100 gross tons as measured under
(c) On a towing vessel (except a towing vessel operated only for fishing, fish processing, fish tender, or engaged in salvage operations) operating on the Great Lakes, harbors of the Great Lakes, and connecting or tributary waters between Gary, Indiana, Duluth, Minnesota, Niagara Falls, New York, and Ogdensburg, New York, an individual in the deck or engine department may not be required to work more than 8 hours in one day or permitted to work more than 15 hours in any 24-hour period, or more than 36 hours in any 72-hour period, except in an emergency when life or property are endangered.
(d) On a merchant vessel of more than 100 gross tons as measured under
(e) On a vessel designated by subsection (d) of this section—
(1) an individual may not be—
(A) engaged to work alternately in the deck and engine departments; or
(B) required to work in the engine department if engaged for deck department duty or required to work in the deck department if engaged for engine department duty;
(2) an individual may not be required to do unnecessary work on Sundays, New Year's Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, or Christmas Day, when the vessel is in a safe harbor, but this clause does not prevent dispatch of a vessel on a voyage; and
(3) when the vessel is in a safe harbor, 8 hours (including anchor watch) is a day's work.
(f) Subsections (d) and (e) of this section do not limit the authority of the master or other officer or the obedience of the seamen when, in the judgment of the master or other officer, any part of the crew is needed for—
(1) maneuvering, shifting the berth of, mooring, or unmooring, the vessel;
(2) performing work necessary for the safety of the vessel, or the vessel's passengers, crew, or cargo;
(3) saving life on board another vessel in jeopardy; or
(4) performing fire, lifeboat, or other drills in port or at sea.
(g)(1) On a towing vessel, an offshore supply vessel, or a barge to which this section applies, that is engaged on a voyage of less than 600 miles, the licensed individuals and crewmembers may be divided, when at sea, into at least 2 watches.
(2) Paragraph (1) applies to an offshore supply vessel of at least 6,000 gross tons as measured under
(h) On a vessel to which
(i) A person violating subsection (a) or (b) of this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $10,000.
(j) The owner, charterer, or managing operator of a vessel on which a violation of subsection (c), (d), (e), or (h) of this section occurs is liable to the Government for a civil penalty of $10,000. The individual is entitled to discharge from the vessel and receipt of wages earned.
(k) On a fish processing vessel subject to inspection under part B of this subtitle, the licensed individuals and deck crew shall be divided, when at sea, into at least 3 watches.
(l) Except as provided in subsection (k) of this section, on a fish processing vessel, the licensed individuals and deck crew shall be divided, when at sea, into at least 2 watches if the vessel—
(1) entered into service before January 1, 1988, and is more than 1,600 gross tons as measured under
(2) entered into service after December 31, 1987, and has more than 16 individuals on board primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products.
(m) This section does not apply to a fish processing vessel—
(1) entered into service before January 1, 1988, and not more than 1,600 gross tons as measured under
(2) entered into service after December 31, 1987, and having not more than 16 individuals on board primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products.
(n) On a tanker, a licensed individual or seaman may not be permitted to work more than 15 hours in any 24-hour period, or more than 36 hours in any 72-hour period, except in an emergency or a drill. In this subsection, "work" includes any administrative duties associated with the vessel whether performed on board the vessel or onshore.
(o)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2) of this subsection, on a fish tender vessel of not more than 500 gross tons as measured under
(2) On a fish tender vessel of not more than 500 gross tons as measured under
(A) before September 8, 1990, operated in that trade; or
(B)(i) before September 8, 1990, was purchased to be used in that trade; and
(ii) before June 1, 1992, entered into service in that trade.
(p) The Secretary may prescribe the watchstanding and work hours requirements for an oil spill response vessel.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8104 | 46:235 46:405(b) 46:673 |
Section 8104 prescribes certain working hours and conditions under which working hours are set. The Committee intends that these sections be interpreted in a manner consistent with one another.
Subsection (a) permits an individual to take charge of the deck watch on leaving port and immediately thereafter only if the individual has been off duty for 6 of the 12 hours immediately prior to departure.
Subsection (b) prohibits a licensed individual from being required to work more than 9 of 24 hours in port or more than 12 of 24 hours at sea on an oceangoing or coastwise vessel of not more than 100 gross tons, except in an emergency.
Subsection (c) prescribes a maximum 8-hour day for licensed individuals and seamen on towing vessels operating on the Great Lakes and certain connecting or tributary waters.
Subsection (d) requires certain members of the complement of certain merchant vessels of more than 100 gross tons to be divided into at least 3 successive watches when at sea. This requirement applies to radio officers only when at least 3 radio officers are employed. Subsection (d) also prescribes a maximum 8-hour work day for licensed individuals and seamen on these vessels.
For the Great Lakes towing vessels and merchant vessels in subsections (c) and (d), subsection (e) requires that seamen be hired only for work in either the deck or the engine department. When in a safe harbor, seamen may be required to do only necessary work on Sundays and certain holidays, unless the vessel is getting underway on a voyage. Further, when in a safe harbor, this subsection restates the maximum 8-hour work day which applies even for anchor watch.
Subsection (f) states that the limitations in subsections (d) and (e) do not apply if the master or other officer decides the crew is needed for certain routine, safety, or rescue activities.
Subsection (g) provides that for a towing vessel (except a Great Lakes towing vessel under subsection (c)), offshore supply vessel, or barge on a voyage of less than 600 miles, the licensed officers and certain crewmembers may be divided into not less than two watches when at sea.
Subsection (h) provides that the licensed operator for a towing vessel at least 26 feet long may not be required to work more than 12 of 24 hours, except in an emergency.
Subsections (i) and (j) prescribe penalties for violations of the provisions of this section and, in certain instances, entitles the seaman to discharge and payment of wages.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2021—Subsec. (c).
Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (j).
2014—Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (g)(1).
2010—Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (o).
2006—Subsec. (o).
1996—Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (c).
Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (l)(1).
Subsec. (m)(1).
Subsec. (o)(1).
Subsec. (o)(2).
Subsec. (p).
1993—Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (p).
1992—Subsec. (g).
Subsecs. (n), (o).
1990—Subsecs. (i), (j).
Subsec. (n).
1986—Subsec. (k).
1984—Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (c).
Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (k).
Subsec. (l).
Subsec. (m).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 2010 Amendment
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by
Articulated Tug-Barge Manning
"(a)
"(b)
"(1)
"(2)
[For definition of "Secretary" as used in section 11598 of
§8105. Fishing vessel exemption
Notwithstanding any other provision of law, neither the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, nor any amendment to such convention, shall apply to a fishing vessel, including a fishing vessel used as a fish tender vessel.
(Added
Editorial Notes
Prior Provisions
A prior section 8105,
§8106. Riding gangs
(a)
(1) ensure that—
(A) subject to subsection (d), each riding gang member on the vessel—
(i) is a United States citizen or an alien lawfully admitted to the United States for permanent residence; or
(ii) possesses a United States nonimmigrant visa for individuals desiring to enter the United States temporarily for business, employment-related and personal identifying information, and any other documentation required by the Secretary;
(B) all required documentation for such member is kept on the vessel and available for inspection by the Secretary; and
(C) each riding gang member is identified on the vessel's crew list;
(2) ensure that—
(A) the owner or managing operator attests in a certificate that the background of each riding gang member has been examined and found to be free of any credible information indicating a material risk to the security of the vessel, the vessel's cargo, the ports the vessel visits, or other individuals onboard the vessel;
(B) the background check consisted of a search of all information reasonably available to the owner or managing operator in the riding gang member's country of citizenship and any other country in which the riding gang member works, receives employment referrals, or resides;
(C) the certificate required under subparagraph (A) is kept on the vessel and available for inspection by the Secretary; and
(D) the information derived from any such background check is made available to the Secretary upon request;
(3) ensure that each riding gang member, while on board the vessel, is subject to the same random chemical testing and reporting regimes as crew members;
(4) ensure that each such riding gang member receives basic safety familiarization and basic safety training approved by the Coast Guard as satisfying the requirements for such training under the International Convention of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978;
(5) prevent from boarding the vessel, or cause the removal from the vessel at the first available port, and disqualify from future service on board any other vessel owned or operated by that owner or operator, any riding gang member—
(A) who has been convicted in any jurisdiction of an offense described in paragraph (2) or (3) of section 7703;
(B) whose license, certificate of registry, or merchant mariner's document has been suspended or revoked under section 7704; or
(C) who otherwise constitutes a threat to the safety of the vessel;
(6) ensure and certify to the Secretary that the sum of—
(A) the number of riding gang members on board a freight vessel, and
(B) the number of individuals in addition to crew permitted under section 3304,
does not exceed 12;
(7) ensure that every riding gang member is employed on board the vessel under conditions that meet or exceed the minimum international standards of all applicable international labor conventions to which the United States is a party, including all of the merchant seamen protection and relief provided under United States law; and
(8) ensure that each riding gang member—
(A) is supervised by an individual who holds a license issued under
(B) only performs work in conjunction with individuals who hold merchant mariners documents issued under
(b)
(1) work in preparation of a vessel entering a shipyard located outside of the United States;
(2) completion of the residual repairs after departing a shipyard located outside of the United States; or
(3) technical in-voyage repairs, in excess of any repairs that can be performed by the vessel's crew, in order to advance the vessel's useful life without having to actually enter a shipyard.
(c)
(1)
(2)
(d)
(1)
(A) customarily performed by original equipment manufacturers' technical representatives;
(B) required by a manufacturer's warranty on specific machinery and equipment; or
(C) required by a contractual guarantee or warranty on actual repairs performed in a shipyard located outside of the United States.
(2)
(e)
(f)
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(Added
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2018—Subsec. (f)(3).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
International Convention for Safety of Life at Sea
For International Conventions for the Safety of Life at Sea to which the United States has been a party, see
§8107. Use of force against piracy
(a)
(b)
(c)
(Added
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Standard Rules for the Use of Force for Self-Defense of Vessels of the United States
[§8108. Repealed. Pub. L. 115–282, title VI, §601(c)(3)(A), Dec. 4, 2018, 132 Stat. 4289 ]
Section, added
CHAPTER 83 —MASTERS AND OFFICERS
Historical and Revision Notes
For certain vessels of the United States,
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2021—
§8301. Minimum number of licensed individuals
(a) Except as provided in
(1) Each of those vessels propelled by machinery or carrying passengers shall have a licensed master.
(2) A vessel of at least 1,000 gross tons as measured under
(A) in the case of a vessel other than a mobile offshore drilling unit, if on a voyage of less than 400 miles from port of departure to port of final destination, the vessel shall have 2 licensed mates; and
(B) in the case of a mobile offshore drilling unit, the vessel shall have licensed individuals as provided by regulations prescribed by the Secretary under
(3) A vessel of at least 200 gross tons but less than 1,000 gross tons as measured under
(4) A vessel of at least 100 gross tons but less than 200 gross tons as measured under
(5) A freight vessel or a passenger vessel of at least 300 gross tons as measured under
(b)(1) An offshore supply vessel of less than 500 gross tons as measured under
(2) An offshore supply vessel of at least 6,000 gross tons as measured under
(3) An offshore supply vessel of more than 200 gross tons as measured under
(c) Subsection (a) of this section does not apply to a fishing or whaling vessel, a mobile offshore drilling unit when on location, or a yacht.
(d) The Secretary may—
(1) suspend any part of this chapter during a national emergency proclaimed by the President; and
(2) increase the number of licensed individuals on a vessel to which this chapter applies if, in the Secretary's judgment, the vessel is not sufficiently manned for safe operation.
(e) The Secretary may prescribe the minimum number of licensed individuals for an oil spill response vessel.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8301 | 46:223 46:404–1(8) |
Section 8301 prescribes the minimum number of licensed individuals on board certain vessels based on the vessel's size or propulsion, length of voyage by distance or time, or any combination of these factors.
Subsection (a) applies to certain merchant and passenger carrying vessels of the United States, each of which must have a licensed master regardless of the factors listed above. Subsection (b) applies to offshore supply vessels. Subsection (c) exempts fishing or whaling vessels or yachts from these requirements.
Subsection (d) permits the Secretary to suspend any part of this chapter during a declared national emergency or to increase the number of licensed individuals required by this chapter if required for safe operation of a vessel.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2010—Subsec. (b).
1996—Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (a)(4).
Subsec. (a)(5).
Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (e).
"(1) two licensed mates when the vessel is engaged in an operation over 12 hours in duration;
"(2) one licensed mate when the vessel is engaged in an operation less than 12 hours in duration; and
"(3) if the vessel is more than 200 gross tons, a licensed engineer when the vessel is operating."
1993—Subsec. (e).
1988—Subsec. (a)(2).
1986—Subsec. (c).
1984—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (a)(1).
§8302. Staff department
(a) This section applies to a vessel of the United States except—
(1) a fishing or whaling vessel or a yacht;
(2) a vessel operated only on bays, sounds, inland waters, and lakes (except the Great Lakes); and
(3) a vessel ferrying passengers and cars on the Great Lakes.
(b) The staff department on a vessel is a separate and independent department. It consists of individuals registered under
(c) The staff department is composed of a medical division and a purser's division. The officer in charge of each division is responsible only to the master. The senior registered medical doctor is in charge of the medical division. The senior registered purser is in charge of the purser's division.
(d) The officer in charge of the purser's division of the staff department on an oceangoing passenger vessel licensed to carry more than 100 passengers shall be a registered chief purser. When more than 3 individuals are employed in the purser's division of that vessel, there also shall be at least one registered senior assistant purser and one registered junior assistant purser.
(e) A person may not employ an individual to serve in, and an individual may not serve in, a grade of staff officer on a vessel, when that staff officer is required by this section to be registered, if the individual does not have a certificate of registry as staff officer in that grade. A person (including an individual) violating this subsection is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $100. However, if a registered staff officer is not available at the time of sailing, the vessel may sail with an unregistered staff officer or without a staff officer.
(f) A staff officer may not be included in a vessel's certificate of inspection.
(g) A registered staff officer serving under this section who is a member of the Navy Reserve may wear on the officer's uniform special distinguishing insignia prescribed by the Secretary of the Navy.
(h) The uniform stripes, decoration, or other insignia worn by a staff officer shall be of gold braid or woven gold or silver material. A crewmember (except a staff officer) may not wear any uniform with a staff officer's identifying insignia.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8302(a)–(d) | 46:242 46:248 |
| 8302(e), (f) | 46:246(a) |
| 8302(g) | 46:245(a) |
| 8302(h) | 46:245(b) |
Section 8302 sets forth the organization and manning requirements of the staff department of a vessel. The staff department has medical and clerical responsibilities.
Subsection (a) applies this section to every United States vessel except a yacht, a fishing, whaling, or certain types of inland waterway vessel, and a ferry carrying passengers or cars on the Great Lakes. A ferry is a vessel that primarily carries passengers, cars, or trains from shore to shore as a means to connect existing points on a transportation route so that the same type of transportation mode may continue to be used upon arrival at either point. Vessels carrying cars as cargo would not be included in this type of vessel.
Subsection (b) establishes the staff department as a separate one consisting of registered individuals (pursers, medical doctors, and professional nurses), clerks, and medical assistants. Subsection (c) divides the department into a medical division and a purser's division and designates the individual in charge of each division. Subsection (d) prescribes particular requirements of the purser's division based on size of the vessel or number of individuals employed in the division.
Subsection (e) prohibits the employment or service of an individual who is not registered or of the grade as required under this section and prescribes a penalty for violation of the subsection. This penalty applies to both the employer and the individual employed. If a registered staff officer is unavailable at the time of departure for a voyage, the vessel may proceed on its voyage with either an unregistered staff officer or without a staff officer.
Subsection (f) prohibits including a staff officer on a vessel's certificate of inspection.
Subsections (g) and (h) prescribe the type and restrictions for the uniform accouterments of a staff officer.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2021—Subsec. (d).
2006—Subsec. (g).
1985—Subsec. (b).
[§8303. Repealed. Pub. L. 116–283, div. G, title LVXXXV [LXXXV], §8503(a)(1), Jan. 1, 2021, 134 Stat. 4747 ]
Section,
§8304. Implementing the Officers' Competency Certificates Convention, 1936
(a) In this section, "high seas" means waters seaward of the Boundary Line.
(b) The Officers' Competency Certificates Convention, 1936 (International Labor Organization Draft Convention Numbered 53, on the minimum requirement of professional capacity for masters and officers on board merchant vessels), as ratified by the President on September 1, 1938, with understandings appended, and this section apply to a documented vessel operating on the high seas except—
(1) a public vessel;
(2) a wooden vessel of primitive build, such as a dhow or junk;
(3) a barge; and
(4) a vessel of less than 200 gross tons as measured under
(c) A person may not engage or employ an individual to serve as, and an individual may not serve as, a master, mate, or engineer on a vessel to which this section applies, if the individual does not have a license issued under
(d) A person (including an individual) violating this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $100.
(e) A license issued to an individual to whom this section applies is a certificate of competency.
(f) A designated official may detain a vessel to which this section applies (by written order served on the owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of the vessel) when there is reason to believe that the vessel is about to proceed from a port of the United States to the high seas in violation of this section or a provision of the convention described in subsection (b) of this section. The vessel may be detained until the vessel complies with this section. Clearance may not be granted to a vessel ordered detained under this section.
(g) A foreign vessel to which the convention described in subsection (b) of this section applies, on the navigable waters of the United States, is subject to detention under subsection (f) of this section, and to an examination that may be necessary to decide if there is compliance with the convention.
(h) The owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of a vessel detained under subsection (f) or (g) of this section may appeal the order within 5 days as provided by regulation.
(i) An officer or employee of the Customs Service may be designated to enforce this section.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8304 | 46:224a 46:241 |
Section 8304 implements the Officers' Competency Certificates Convention, 1936, as ratified by the President on September 1, 1938, with understandings appended.
Subsection (a) defines "high seas" for this section. Subsection (b) implements the Convention, applies the Convention to United States vessels on the high seas, and exempts certain vessels.
Subsection (c) prohibits the employment or service of an individual as a master, mate, or engineer on a vessel under this section unless the individual has a license issued under section 7101 for the particular capacity in which the individual is employed.
Subsection (d) prescribes a civil penalty for violating this section.
Subsection (e) states that the license referred to in subsection (c) is a certificate of competency for purposes of the Convention.
Subsection (f) provides for the detention of a vessel in violation of this section or the Convention.
Subsection (g) applies the detention provision to a foreign vessel on the navigable waters of the United States and subjects it to an examination for compliance with the Convention.
Subsection (h) provides for an appeal of the detention order.
Subsection (i) permits the designation of a Customs Service officer or employee to enforce this section.
Editorial Notes
References in Text
The Officers' Competency Certificates Convention, 1936, referred to in subsec. (b), is set out in 54 Stat. Pt. 2, p. 1683.
Amendments
1996—Subsec. (b)(4).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Transfer of Functions
For transfer of functions, personnel, assets, and liabilities of the United States Customs Service of the Department of the Treasury, including functions of the Secretary of the Treasury relating thereto, to the Secretary of Homeland Security, and for treatment of related references, see
CHAPTER 85 —PILOTS
Historical and Revision Notes
This chapter permits the continuation of Federal pilotage requirements for vessels that are not required to obtain compulsory State pilotage. It confirms the practice of allowing anyone with a Federal pilotage endorsement for the waters in which the vessel is operating to be in control of a vessel when engaged in the coastwide trade. It also confirms the practice of using Federal pilots that are often organized into groups or working organizations who offer their expertise and services to vessels that are not required to obtain compulsory State pilotage.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1984—
§8501. State regulation of pilots
(a) Except as otherwise provided in this subtitle, pilots in the bays, rivers, harbors, and ports of the United States shall be regulated only in conformity with the laws of the States.
(b) The master of a vessel entering or leaving a port on waters that are a boundary between 2 States, and that is required to have a pilot under this section, may employ a pilot licensed or authorized by the laws of either of the 2 States.
(c) A State may not adopt a regulation or provision that discriminates in the rate of pilotage or half-pilotage between vessels sailing between the ports of one State and vessels sailing between the ports of different States, or against vessels because of their means of propulsion, or against public vessels of the United States.
(d) A State may not adopt a regulation or provision that requires a coastwise vessel to take a pilot licensed or authorized by the laws of a State if the vessel—
(1) is propelled by machinery and subject to inspection under part B of this subtitle; or
(2) is subject to inspection under
(e) Any regulation or provision violating this section is void.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8501(a) | 46:211 |
| 8501(b) | 46:212 |
| 8501(c), (e) | 46:213 |
| 8501(d) | 46:215 |
Section 8501 establishes the general proposition that the States regulate pilots in the bays, rivers, harbors, and ports of the United States, unless otherwise specifically provided by law.
Subsection (a) states this general proposition and uses the word "only" for emphasis on this point. Further, except as specifically provided in law, the Committee intends that this chapter not be construed to annul or affect any regulation established by the laws of a State requiring a vessel entering or leaving a port in that State to employ a pilot licensed or authorized by the laws of that State. In at least two places in current law, this general proposition is stated in both a positive and negative manner. The Committee intends to consolidate those separate statements into one provision to avoid ambiguity and redundancy.
Subsections (b) and (c) contain provisions regarding pilotage in waters between two States.
Subsection (d) prohibits a State from requiring a State licensed pilot on certain coastwise vessels.
Subsection (e) voids any regulation or provision violating this section.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1984—Subsec. (a).
§8502. Federal pilots required
(a) Except as provided in subsections (g) and (i) of this section, a coastwise seagoing vessel shall be under the direction and control of a pilot licensed under
(1) not sailing on register;
(2) underway;
(3) not beyond 3 nautical miles from the baselines from which the territorial sea of the United States is measured; and
(4)(A) propelled by machinery and subject to inspection under part B of this subtitle; or
(B) subject to inspection under
(b) The fees charged for pilotage by pilots required under this section may not be more than the customary or legally established rates in the States in which the pilotage is performed.
(c) A State or political subdivision of a State may not impose on a pilot licensed under this subtitle an obligation to procure a State or other license, or adopt any other regulation that will impede the pilot in the performance of the pilot's duties under the laws of the United States.
(d) A State or political subdivision of a State may not levy pilot charges on a vessel lawfully piloted by a pilot required under this section.
(e) The owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of a vessel operated in violation of this section or a regulation prescribed under this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $10,000. The vessel also is liable in rem for the penalty.
(f) An individual serving as a pilot without having a license required by this section or a regulation prescribed under this section is liable to the Government for a civil penalty of $10,000.
(g)(1) The Secretary shall designate by regulation the areas of the approaches to and waters of Prince William Sound, Alaska, if any, on which a vessel subject to this section is not required to be under the direction and control of a pilot licensed under
(2) In any area of Prince William Sound, Alaska, where a vessel subject to this section is required to be under the direction and control of a pilot licensed under
(h) The Secretary shall designate waters on which tankers over 1,600 gross tons subject to this section shall have on the bridge a master or mate licensed to direct and control the vessel under
(i)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), a dredge to which this section would otherwise apply is exempt from the requirements of this section.
(2) If the Secretary determines, after notice and comment, that the exemption under paragraph (1) creates a hazard to navigational safety in a specified area, the Secretary may require that a dredge exempted by paragraph (1) which is operating in that area shall comply with this section.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8502 | 46:215 46:364 46:391a 46:497 |
Section 8502 sets forth the provisions and requirements for pilots licensed under section 7101. It is an exception provided by law envisioned under section 8501(a).
Subsection (a) applies the requirement for a Federal pilot to coastwise seagoing vessels if propelled by machinery and inspected under part B or if inspected under
Subsection (b) prohibits Federal pilot fees from being higher than those required for State pilots. Subsections (c) and (d) prohibit States from imposing impediments to the proper performance of, or levying charges related to, Federal pilotage.
Subsections (e) and (f) prescribe civil penalties for violation of this section.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1998—Subsec. (a)(3).
1990—Subsec. (a).
Subsecs. (e), (f).
Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (h).
Subsec. (i).
1986—Subsec. (a)(4)(A).
1984—Subsec. (a).
"(1) propelled by machinery and subject to inspection under part B of this subtitle; or
"(2) subject to inspection under
Subsec. (g).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by
Executive Documents
Territorial Sea of United States
For extension of territorial sea of United States, see Proc. No. 5928, set out as a note under
§8503. Federal pilots authorized
(a) The Secretary may require a pilot licensed under
(1) engaged in foreign commerce; and
(2) operating—
(A) in internal waters of the United States; or
(B) within 3 nautical miles from the baselines from which the territorial sea of the United States is measured.
(b) A requirement prescribed under subsection (a) of this section is terminated when the State having jurisdiction over the area involved—
(1) establishes a requirement for a State licensed pilot; and
(2) notifies the Secretary of that fact.
(c) For the Saint Lawrence Seaway, the Secretary may not delegate the authority under this section to an agency except the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation.
(d) A person violating this section or a regulation prescribed under this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $25,000. Each day of a continuing violation is a separate violation. The vessel also is liable in rem for the penalty.
(e) A person that knowingly violates this section or a regulation prescribed under this section commits a class D felony.
(Added
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2020—Subsec. (c).
1998—Subsec. (a)(2).
1990—Subsec. (e).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by
Executive Documents
Territorial Sea of United States
For extension of territorial sea of United States, see Proc. No. 5928, set out as a note under
CHAPTER 87 —UNLICENSED PERSONNEL
Historical and Revision Notes
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1988—
§8701. Merchant mariners' documents required
(a) This section applies to a merchant vessel of at least 100 gross tons as measured under
(1) a vessel operating only on rivers and lakes (except the Great Lakes);
(2) a barge (except a seagoing barge or a barge to which
(3) a fishing, fish tender, or whaling vessel or a yacht;
(4) a sailing school vessel with respect to sailing school instructors and sailing school students;
(5) an oceanographic research vessel with respect to scientific personnel;
(6) a fish processing vessel entered into service before January 1, 1988, and not more than 1,600 gross tons as measured under
(7) a fish processing vessel (except a vessel to which clause (6) of this subsection applies) with respect to individuals on board primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products or in a support position not related to navigation;
(8) a mobile offshore drilling unit with respect to individuals, other than crew members required by the certificate of inspection, engaged on board the unit for the sole purpose of carrying out the industrial business or function of the unit;
(9) a passenger vessel not engaged in a foreign voyage with respect to individuals on board employed for a period of not more than 30 service days within a 12 month period as entertainment personnel, with no duties, including emergency duties, related to the navigation of the vessel or the safety of the vessel, its crew, cargo or passengers; and
(10) the Secretary may prescribe the individuals required to hold a merchant mariner's document serving onboard an oil spill response vessel.
(b) A person may not engage or employ an individual, and an individual may not serve, on board a vessel to which this section applies if the individual does not have a merchant mariner's document issued to the individual under
(c) On a vessel to which
(d) A person (including an individual) violating this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $500.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8701 | 46:444 46:643 46:643a 46:672 |
Section 8701 requires an individual to have a merchant mariner's document before that individual can be engaged or employed on certain vessels.
Subsection (a) makes this documentation requirement applicable to United States merchant vessels of at least 100 gross tons except for certain inland vessels and barges, fishing or whaling vessels, yachts, and, in certain circumstances, to sailing school vessels or oceanographic research vessels.
Subsection (b) prohibits the engagement or employment of an individual required to have a document prescribed under section 7302 if the individual does not have one. Except for licensed or registered individuals, the document must specify the capacity in which the individual is engaged or employed.
Subsection (c) requires an individual to exhibit the required document to the master, if not otherwise required to do so in some other manner before that individual may be employed.
Subsection (d) prescribes the penalty for violation of this section.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2002—Subsec. (a)(9), (10).
1996—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (a)(6).
Subsec. (a)(9).
1986—Subsec. (a)(8).
1984—Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (a)(6), (7).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Non-Operating Individual
"(a)
"(1) A vessel with respect to individuals, other than crew members required by the Certificate of Inspection or to ensure the safe navigation of the vessel and not a member of the steward's department, engaged on board for the sole purpose of carrying out spill response activities, salvage, marine firefighting, or commercial diving business or functions from or on any vessel, including marine firefighters, spill response personnel, salvage personnel, and commercial divers and diving support personnel.
"(2) An offshore supply vessel, an industrial vessel (as such term is defined in section 90.10–16 of title 46, Code of Federal Regulations), or other similarly engaged vessel with respect to persons engaged in the business of the ship on board the vessel—
"(A) for—
"(i) supporting or executing the industrial business or function of the vessel;
"(ii) brief periods to conduct surveys or investigations, assess crew competence, conduct vessel trials, provide extraordinary security resources, or similar tasks not traditionally performed by the vessel crew; or
"(iii) performing maintenance tasks on equipment under warranty, or on equipment not owned by the vessel owner, or maintenance beyond the capability of the vessel crew to perform; and
"(B) not the master or crew members required by the certificate of inspection and not a member of the steward's department.
"(b)
§8702. Certain crew requirements
(a) This section applies to a vessel of at least 100 gross tons as measured under
(1) a vessel operating only on rivers and lakes (except the Great Lakes);
(2) a barge (except a seagoing barge or a barge to which
(3) a fishing, fish tender, or whaling vessel (except a fish tender vessel engaged in the Aleutian trade) or a yacht;
(4) a sailing school vessel with respect to sailing school instructors and sailing school students;
(5) an oceanographic research vessel with respect to scientific personnel;
(6) a fish processing vessel entered into service before January 1, 1988, and not more than 1,600 gross tons as measured under
(7) a fish processing vessel (except a vessel to which clause (6) of this subsection applies) with respect to individuals on board primarily employed in the preparation of fish or fish products or in a support position not related to navigation.
(b) A vessel may operate only if at least—
(1) 75 percent of the crew in each department on board is able to understand any order spoken by the officers, and
(2) 65 percent of the deck crew (excluding licensed individuals) have merchant mariners' documents endorsed for a rating of at least able seaman, except that this percentage may be reduced to 50 percent—
(i) on a vessel permitted under
(ii) on a fish tender vessel engaged in the Aleutian trade.
(c) An able seaman is not required on a towing vessel operating on bays and sounds connected directly with the seas.
(d) An individual having a rating of less than able seaman may not be permitted at the wheel in ports, harbors, and other waters subject to congested vessel traffic, or under conditions of reduced visibility, adverse weather, or other hazardous circumstances.
(e) The owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of a vessel operated in violation of this section or a regulation prescribed under this section is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of $10,000.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8702 | 46:643 46:672 |
Section 8702 specifies certain crew requirements.
Subsection (a) applies this section to the same vessels to which section 8701 applies.
Subsection (b) requires that 75 percent of the crew in each department on board a vessel understand any order spoken by the officers and that 65 percent of the deck crew be at least able seamen, except for the licensed officers. For 2-watch system vessels under section 8104, the 65-percent deck crew requirement may be reduced to 50 percent.
Subsection (c) exempts certain inland towing vessels from the able seaman requirement.
Subsection (d) prohibits anyone having a rating of less than able seamen from serving as a helmsman in congested vessel traffic or under hazardous conditions.
Subsection (e) prescribes the penalty for violation of this section.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (a)(6).
1990—Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (b)(2).
Subsec. (e).
1988—Subsec. (b).
1984—Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (a)(6), (7).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendments
Amendment by section 602(e)(2)(A) of
Amendment by
Exemption of Certain Fish Processing Vessels
Certain fish processing vessels exempt from crew requirements of subsec. (b) of this section, see section 403(b) of
§8703. Tankermen on tank vessels
(a) A vessel of the United States to which
(b) A vessel to which
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8703(a) | 46:391a(10)(A) |
| 8703(b) | 46:391a(10)(C) |
| 8703(c) | 46:391a(4)(B) |
Section 8703 sets requirements for tankermen on board vessels carrying oil or hazardous material in bulk as cargo or cargo residue.
Subsection (a) requires a specified number of the crew certified as tankermen on board these vessels and a notation be made to that effect on the vessel's certificate of inspection. A tankerman is an individual who is experienced and trained in the procedures for transferring oil or hazardous material to or from a vessel and is responsible for carrying out these duties and responsibilities.
Subsection (b) authorizes the Secretary to regulate tankermen and restrict the types of oil or hazardous materials on the basis of safety to the vessel and the marine environment.
Subsection (c) requires a tankerman or licensed master, pilot, engineer, or operator to be present and in charge of a transfer of oil or hazardous material on certain vessels in the service of oil exploitation. If this individual is not on board, then the tank vessel requirements of
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2018—Subsecs. (b), (c).
1984—Subsec. (b).
§8704. Alien deemed to be employed in the United States
An alien is deemed to be employed in the United States for purposes of section 274A of the Immigration and Nationality Act (
(1) is a vessel of the United States engaged in the fisheries in the navigable waters of the United States or the exclusive economic zone; and
(2) is not engaged in fishing exclusively for highly migratory species (as that term is defined in section 3 of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (
(Added
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Par. (2).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1996 Amendment
Construction
CHAPTER 89 —SMALL VESSEL MANNING
Historical and Revision Notes
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1986—
§8901. Freight vessels
A freight vessel of less than 100 gross tons as measured under
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8901 | 46:390b |
Section 8901 requires that a freight vessel of less than 100 gross tons be operated by a licensed individual for that type vessel and for a particular geographic area.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—
§8902. Small passenger vessels
A small passenger vessel shall be operated by an individual licensed by the Secretary to operate that type of vessel in the particular geographic area, under prescribed regulations.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8902 | 46:390b |
Section 8902 requires that a small passenger vessel of less than 100 gross tons be operated by a licensed individual for that type vessel and for a particular geographic area.
§8903. Self-propelled, uninspected passenger vessels
A self-propelled, uninspected passenger vessel shall be operated by an individual licensed by the Secretary to operate that type of vessel, under prescribed regulations.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8903 | 46:1461(e), (f) |
Section 8903 requires that an uninspected passenger vessel be operated by a licensed individual for that type of vessel.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1986—
§8904. Towing vessels
(a) A towing vessel that is at least 26 feet in length measured from end to end over the deck (excluding sheer), shall be operated by an individual licensed by the Secretary to operate that type of vessel in the particular geographic area, under prescribed regulations.
(b) A vessel that tows a disabled vessel for consideration shall be operated by an individual licensed by the Secretary to operate that type of vessel in the particular geographic area, under prescribed regulations.
(c) The Secretary may prescribe by regulation requirements for maximum hours of service (including recording and recordkeeping of that service) of individuals engaged on a towing vessel that is at least 26 feet in length measured from end to end over the deck (excluding the sheer).
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8904 | 46:405(b)(2) |
Section 8904 requires that a 26-foot or larger towing vessel be operated by a licensed individual for that type of vessel and for a particular geographic area.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2004—Subsec. (c).
1986—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1986 Amendment
Demonstration Project
§8905. Exemptions
(a)
(b)
(c) After consultation with the Governor of Alaska and the State boating law administrator of Alaska, the Secretary may exempt an individual operating a self-propelled uninspected passenger vessel from the requirements of
(1) the individual only operates such vessel wholly within waters located in Alaska; and
(2) such vessel is—
(A) 26 feet or less in length; and
(B) carrying not more than 6 passengers.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8905(a) | 46:1461(f) |
| 8905(b) | 46:405(b)(3) |
Section 8905 provides for certain exemptions from the requirements of this chapter.
Subsection (a) exempts dealer demonstration recreational vessels from the licensed operator requirement in section 8903 unless the Secretary decides that safety considerations require the application of that section.
Subsection (b) exempts an offshore supply vessel of less than 200 gross tons from the licensed operator requirement under section 8904 when used in the offshore mineral and oil industry.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2021—Subsec. (c).
2010—Subsecs. (b), (c).
1996—Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (c).
§8906. Penalty
An owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of a vessel operated in violation of this chapter or a regulation prescribed under this chapter is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $25,000. The vessel also is liable in rem for the penalty.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 8906 | 46:390d |
Section 8906 prescribes the penalties for violations of this chapter.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—
CHAPTER 91 —TANK VESSEL MANNING STANDARDS
Historical and Revision Notes
§9101. Standards for foreign tank vessels
(a)(1) The Secretary shall evaluate the manning, training, qualification, and watchkeeping standards of a foreign country that issues documentation for any vessel to which
(A) on a periodic basis; and
(B) when the vessel is involved in a marine casualty required to be reported under section 6101(a)(4) or (5) of this title.
(2) After each evaluation made under paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Secretary shall determine whether—
(A) the foreign country has standards for licensing and certification of seamen that are at least equivalent to United States law or international standards accepted by the United States; and
(B) those standards are being enforced.
(3) If the Secretary determines under this subsection that a country has failed to maintain or enforce standards at least equivalent to United States law or international standards accepted by the United States, the Secretary shall prohibit vessels issued documentation by that country from entering the United States until the Secretary determines those standards have been established and are being enforced.
(4) The Secretary may allow provisional entry of a vessel prohibited from entering the United States under paragraph (3) of this subsection if—
(A) the owner or operator of the vessel establishes, to the satisfaction of the Secretary, that the vessel is not unsafe or a threat to the marine environment; or
(B) the entry is necessary for the safety of the vessel or individuals on the vessel.
(b) A foreign vessel to which
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9101(a) | 46:391a(11) |
| 9101(b) | 46:391a(10)(B) |
Section 9101 requires monitoring of manning standards for foreign tank vessels operating on the navigable waters of the United States and transferring oil or hazardous material in the United States.
Subsection (a) requires the Secretary of Transportation to evaluate the manning, training, qualification, and watchkeeping standards of foreign countries whose tank vessels operate on United States waters, or use transfer facilities, and to decide if the standards are equivalent or more stringent than United States standards.
Subsection (b) authorizes the Secretary to specify the number of tankermen required on a foreign tank vessel and to have certified tankermen who can understand English when transferring oil or hazardous material in the United States. This requirement is to be made part of the terminal operating procedures.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1990—Subsec. (a).
"(1) periodically evaluate the manning, training, qualification, and watchkeeping standards prescribed by the certificating country of a foreign vessel to which
"(2) after each evaluation made under clause (1) of this subsection, decide whether the foreign country, whose system for licensing and certification of seamen was evaluated, has standards that are equivalent to or more stringent than United States standards or international standards accepted by the United States."
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by
§9102. Standards for tank vessels of the United States
The Secretary shall prescribe standards for the manning of each vessel of the United States to which
(1) instruction in vessel and cargo handling and vessel navigation under normal operating conditions in coastal and confined waters and on the high seas;
(2) instruction in vessel and cargo handling and vessel navigation in emergency situations and under marine casualty or potential casualty conditions;
(3) qualifications for licenses by specific type and size of vessels;
(4) qualifications for licenses by use of simulators for the practice or demonstration of marine-oriented skills;
(5) minimum health and physical fitness criteria for various grades of licenses and certificates;
(6) periodic retraining and special training for upgrading positions, changing vessel type or size, or assuming new responsibilities;
(7) decisions about licenses and certificates, conditions of licensing or certification, and periods of licensing or certification by reference to experience, amount of training completed, and regular performance testing; and
(8) instruction in vessel maintenance functions.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9102 | 46:391a(9) |
Section 9102 prescribes manning standards for United States tank vessels.
Subsection (a) requires the Secretary of Transportation to prescribe certain standards for the duties, qualifications, and training of the officers and crew of United States tank vessels.
Subsection (b) provides for a waiver of any health and physical fitness criteria prescribed under subsection (a).
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2021—
1990—Par. (8).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by
CHAPTER 93 —GREAT LAKES PILOTAGE
Historical and Revision Notes
§9301. Definitions
In this chapter—
(1) "Canadian registered pilot" means an individual (except a regular crewmember of a vessel) who is registered by Canada on the same basis as an individual registered under
(2) "Great Lakes" means Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario, their connecting and tributary waters, the Saint Lawrence River as far east as Saint Regis, and adjacent port areas.
(3) "United States registered pilot" means an individual (except a regular crewmember of a vessel) who is registered under
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9301(1) | 46:216(d) |
| 9301(2) | 46:216(a) |
| 9301(3) | 46:216(c) |
Section 9301 contains definitions which pertain to this chapter only.
Clause (1) defines "Canadian registered pilot" as an individual registered as a pilot in Canada on the same basis as the United States.
Clause (2) defines "Great Lakes" as the five lakes plus their connecting and tributary waters, a certain part of the Saint Lawrence River, and adjacent ports.
Clause (3) defines "United States registered pilot" as an individual registered under regulations for competency under section 9303.
§9302. Great Lakes pilots required
(a)(1) Except as provided in subsections (d), (e), and (f) of this section, each vessel of the United States operating on register and each foreign vessel shall engage a United States or Canadian registered pilot for the route being navigated who shall—
(A) in waters of the Great Lakes designated by the President, direct the navigation of the vessel subject to the customary authority of the master; and
(B) in waters of the Great Lakes not designated by the President, be on board and available to direct the navigation of the vessel at the discretion of and subject to the customary authority of the master.
(2) The President shall make water designations under this subsection with regard to the public interest, the effective use of navigable waters, marine safety, and the foreign relations of the United States.
(b) A member of the complement of a vessel of the United States operating on register or of a vessel of Canada may serve as the pilot required on waters not designated by the President if the member is licensed under
(c) The authority extended under subsections (a) and (b) of this section to a Canadian registered pilot or other Canadian licensed officer to serve on certain vessels in United States waters of the Great Lakes shall continue as long as Canada extends reciprocity to United States registered pilots and other individuals licensed by the United States for pilotage service in Canadian waters of the Great Lakes.
(d) A vessel may be operated on the United States waters of the Great Lakes without a United States or Canadian registered pilot when—
(1) the Secretary notifies the master that a registered pilot is not available; or
(2) the vessel or its cargo is in distress or jeopardy.
(e) A Canadian vessel regularly operating on the Great Lakes or between ports on the Great Lakes and the Saint Lawrence River, with only an occasional voyage to ports in the maritime provinces of Canada in the Canadian coastal trade, is exempt from subsection (a) of this section as long as Canada permits enrolled vessels of the United States to be operated on Canadian waters of the Great Lakes under the direction of individuals licensed under
(f) A documented vessel regularly operating on the Great Lakes or between ports on the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence River is exempt from the requirements of subsection (a) of this section.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9302(a), (b), (d) | 46:216a |
| 9302(c) | 46:216f |
Section 9302 sets forth the requirements for pilots on the waters of the Great Lakes under the jurisdiction of the United States or Canada.
Subsection (a) requires each United States vessel sailing on register and each foreign vessel to engage a United States or Canadian registered pilot who shall direct the navigation of the vessel in designated waters of the Great Lakes or be available to direct the navigation of the vessel in undesignated waters of the Great Lakes. The President must make the designation with regard to public interest, effective use of navigable waters, marine safety, and United States foreign relations. The direction of the vessel by an authorized pilot is subject to the customary authority of the master.
Subsection (b) provides that a crewmember licensed for Great Lakes navigation under section 7101 or equivalent Canadian law may serve as the pilot on undesignated waters.
Subsection (c) provides for reciprocity of recognizing United States and Canadian pilots.
Subsections (d) and (e) are exceptions to subsection (a). Subsection (d) permits operation of a vessel on the Great Lakes without a registered pilot if notice is given that one is not available or if the vessel or cargo is in distress or jeopardy. Subsection (e) exempts a Canadian vessel in the coastwise or Great Lakes trade from the requirement of having a registered pilot if similar United States vessels are extended the same exemption by Canada.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1996—Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (f).
1990—Subsec. (b).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by
Executive Documents
Proc. No. 3385. Designation of Restricted Waters
Proc. No. 3385, Dec. 22, 1960, 25 F.R. 13681, as amended by Proc. No. 3855, June 10, 1968, 33 F.R. 8535, provided:
WHEREAS, pursuant to section 3(a) of the Great Lakes Pilotage Act of 1960 (
WHEREAS the aforesaid section 3(a) [
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER, President of the United States of America, acting under and by virtue of the authority vested in me by section 3(a) of the Great Lakes Pilotage Act of 1960 [
(1) District 1. All United States waters of the St. Lawrence River between the international boundary at St. Regis and a line at the head of the river running (at approximately 127° true) between Carruthers Point Light and South Side Light extended to the New York shore.
(2) District 2. All United States waters of Lake Erie westward of a line running (at approximately 026° true) from Sandusky Pierhead Light at Cedar Point to Southeast Shoal Light; all waters contained within the arc of a circle of one mile radius eastward of Sandusky Pierhead Light; the Detroit River; Lake St. Clair; the St. Clair River, and northern approaches thereto south of latitude 43°05′30″ N.
(3) District 3. All United States waters of the St. Marys River, Sault Sainte Marie Locks and approaches thereto between latitude 45°59′ N. at the southern approach and longitude 84°33′ W. at the northern approach.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Seal of the United States of America to be affixed.
DONE at the City of Washington this twenty-second day of December in the year of our Lord nineteen hundred and sixty, and of the Independence of the United States of America the one hundred and eighty-fifth.
[
Dwight D. Eisenhower.
§9303. United States registered pilot service
(a) The Secretary shall prescribe by regulation standards of competency to be met by each applicant for registration under this chapter. An applicant must—
(1) have a license as master, mate, or pilot issued under
(2) have acquired at least 24 months licensed service or equivalent experience on vessels or integrated towing vessels and tows of at least 4,000 gross tons as measured under
(3) agree that, if appointed as a United States registered pilot, the applicant will be available for service when required.
(b) The Secretary shall issue to each registered pilot under this chapter a certificate of registration describing the areas within which the pilot may serve. The pilot shall carry the certificate when in the service of a vessel.
(c) The Secretary shall prescribe by regulation the duration of validity of registration.
(d) The Secretary may prescribe by regulation the conditions for service by United States registered pilots, including availability for service.
(e) Subject to
(f) The Secretary shall prescribe by regulation rates and charges for pilotage services, giving consideration to the public interest and the costs of providing the services. The Secretary shall establish new pilotage rates by March 1 of each year. The Secretary shall establish base pilotage rates by a full ratemaking at least once every 5 years and shall conduct annual reviews of such base pilotage rates, and make adjustments to such base rates, in each intervening year.
(g) The Secretary shall ensure that a sufficient number of individuals are assigned to carrying out subsection (f).
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9303(a) | 46:216b(a) |
| 9303(b) | 46:216b(b) |
| 9303(c) | 46:216b(c) |
| 9303(e) | 46:216b(c) |
| 9303(f) | 46:216c |
Section 9303 authorizes the Secretary to prescribe regulatory standards of competency for registered pilots.
Subsection (a) requires an applicant for registration as a pilot to have a master's, mate's, or pilot's license, 24 months of licensed service, or equivalent, on vessels on the oceans or Great Lakes, with a minimum of 6 months on the Great Lakes, and agree to be available for service as a United States registered pilot if appointed.
Subsection (b) requires the Secretary to issue a certificate of registration describing the areas of service of a registered pilot who must carry the certificate when in a vessel's service.
Subsection (c) authorizes the Secretary to prescribe the duration of the validity of registration, while subsection (d) authorizes the Secretary to prescribe conditions for service by United States registered pilots.
Subsection (e) provides for the suspension or revocation of a certificate or registration by the Secretary.
Subsection (f) provides for setting the rates and charges for pilotage services.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2006—Subsec. (f).
Subsec. (g).
1996—Subsec. (a)(2).
§9304. Pilotage pools
(a) The Secretary may authorize the formation of a pool by a voluntary association of United States registered pilots to provide for efficient dispatching of vessels and rendering of pilotage services.
(b) For pilotage pools, the Secretary may—
(1) limit the number of the pools;
(2) prescribe regulations for their operation and administration;
(3) prescribe a uniform system of accounts;
(4) perform audits and inspections; and
(5) require coordination on a reciprocal basis with similar pool arrangements authorized by the appropriate agency of Canada.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9304 | 46:216b(e) |
Section 9304 provides for the formation of a pool by a voluntary association of United States registered pilots to provide for efficient pilotage services.
Subsection (a) permits the Secretary to authorize formation of United States pilotage pools.
Subsection (b) sets forth the restrictions and conditions that the Secretary may prescribe for these pools.
§9305. Agreements with Canada
To provide for a coordinated system of pilotage service on the Great Lakes, the Secretary, subject to the concurrence of the Secretary of State, may make agreements with the appropriate agency of Canada to—
(1) fix the number of pilots to be registered in each country;
(2) provide for participation on an equitable basis;
(3) prescribe joint or identical rates and charges;
(4) coordinate pool operations; and
(5) establish conditions for services by registered pilots.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9305 | 46:216b(d) 46:216d |
Section 9305 authorizes the Secretary of Transportation, subject to the concurrence of the Secretary of State, to make agreements with Canada for a coordinated system of pilotage service on the Great Lakes. The agreements may fix the number of registered pilots, provide for equitable participation, prescribe rates and charges, coordinate pool operations, and establish conditions for service.
§9306. State regulation prohibited
A State or political subdivision of a State may not regulate or impose any requirement on pilotage on the Great Lakes.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9306 | 46:216g |
Section 9306 prohibits State or local regulations of pilotage on the Great Lakes and is part of the exception provided by law envisioned under section 8501(a).
§9307. Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee
(a) The Secretary shall establish a Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee. The Committee—
(1) may review proposed Great Lakes pilotage regulations and policies and make recommendations to the Secretary that the Committee considers appropriate;
(2) may advise, consult with, report to, and make recommendations to the Secretary on matters relating to Great Lakes pilotage;
(3) may make available to the Congress recommendations that the Committee makes to the Secretary; and
(4) shall meet at the call of—
(A) the Secretary, who shall call such a meeting at least once during each calendar year; or
(B) a majority of the Committee.
(b)(1) The Committee shall consist of 8 members appointed by the Secretary in accordance with this subsection, each of whom has at least 5 years practical experience in maritime operations. The term of each member is for a period of not more than 5 years, specified by the Secretary. Before filling a position on the Committee, the Secretary shall publish a notice in the Federal Register soliciting nominations for membership on the Committee.
(2) The membership of the Committee shall include—
(A) the President of each of the 3 Great Lakes pilotage districts, or the President's representative;
(B) one member chosen from among nominations made by vessel operators that contract for Great Lakes pilotage services;
(C) one member chosen from among nominations made by Great Lakes port authorities and marine terminals;
(D) one member chosen from among nominations made by shippers whose cargoes are transported through Great Lakes ports;
(E) one member chosen from among nominations made by Great Lakes maritime labor organizations; and
(F) a member who—
(i) must have been recommended to the Secretary by a unanimous vote of the other members of the Committee, and
(ii) may be appointed without regard to requirement in paragraph (1) that each member have 5 years of practical experience in maritime operations.
(c)(1) The Committee shall elect one of its members as the Chairman and one of its members as the Vice Chairman. The Vice Chairman shall act as Chairman in the absence or incapacity of the Chairman, or in the event of a vacancy in the office of the Chairman.
(2) The Secretary shall, and any other interested agency may, designate a representative to participate as an observer with the Committee. The Secretary's designated representative shall act as the executive secretary of the Committee and shall perform the duties set forth in
(d)(1) The Secretary shall, whenever practicable, consult with the Committee before taking any significant action relating to Great Lakes pilotage.
(2) The Secretary shall consider the information, advice, and recommendations of the Committee in formulating policy regarding matters affecting Great Lakes pilotage.
(3) Any recommendations to the Secretary under subsection (a)(2) must have been approved by at least all but one of the members then serving on the committee.
(e)(1) A member of the Committee, when attending meetings of the Committee or when otherwise engaged in the business of the Committee, is entitled to receive—
(A) compensation at a rate fixed by the Secretary, not exceeding the daily equivalent of the current rate of basic pay in effect for GS–18 of the General Schedule under
(B) travel or transportation expenses under
(2) A member of the Committee shall not be considered to be an officer or employee of the United States for any purpose based on their receipt of any payment under this subsection.
(f)(1)
(2) 2 years before the termination date set forth in paragraph (1) of this subsection, the Committee shall submit to the Congress its recommendation regarding whether the Committee should be renewed and continued beyond the termination date.
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9307 | 46:216h |
Section 9307 permits the Secretary to establish a Great Lakes Pilotage Advisory Committee. This Committee is to be established consistent with the Federal Advisory Committee Act (
Subsection (a) authorizes the Committee to review and make recommendations on Great Lakes pilotage regulation and policies and to make the recommendations available to Congress and requires the Committee to meet at the call of the Secretary.
Subsection (b) establishes the membership of the Committee as 3 members with 5 years of practical maritime experience appointed by the Secretary for a term of not more than 5 years. A Federal Register notice of solicitation for membership nominations for filling a position is required.
Subsection (c) provides for pay and travel expenses, including per diem, for the members.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
2022—Subsec. (c)(2).
Subsec. (f)(1).
2021—Subsec. (b)(1).
Subsec. (b)(2)(B).
Subsec. (b)(2)(C).
Subsec. (b)(2)(D).
Subsec. (b)(2)(E).
Subsec. (b)(2)(F).
Subsec. (f)(1).
2010—Subsec. (f)(1).
2006—Subsec. (b)(2)(A).
2004—Subsec. (f)(1).
2000—Subsec. (b)(2)(A).
Subsec. (b)(2)(E).
Subsec. (c)(2).
Subsec. (d)(3).
Subsec. (f)(1).
1998—
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Construction of 2021 Amendment
References in Other Laws to GS–16, 17, or 18 Pay Rates
References in laws to the rates of pay for GS–16, 17, or 18, or to maximum rates of pay under the General Schedule, to be considered references to rates payable under specified sections of Title 5, Government Organization and Employees, see section 529 [title I, §101(c)(1)] of
§9308. Penalties
(a) An owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, or individual in charge of a vessel knowingly allowing the vessel to be operated in violation of
(b) An individual who directs the navigation of a vessel in violation of
(c) A person violating a regulation prescribed under
(
| Revised section | Source section (U.S. Code) |
|---|---|
| 9308 | 46:216e(a)–(c) |
Section 9308 prescribes the penalties for violations of sections 9302 and 9303.
Editorial Notes
Amendments
1990—Subsecs. (a) to (c).
Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries
Effective Date of 1990 Amendment
Amendment by