Opportunity
Federal Register #MARAD-2026-1393
Request for Comments on Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel M/V FRANCIS in U.S. Coastwise Trade
Buyer
Maritime Administration
Posted
September 03, 2026
Respond By
October 05, 2026
Identifier
MARAD-2026-1393
The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the Department of Transportation, is seeking public comments on a regulatory determination regarding the use of the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V FRANCIS in U.S. coastwise trade. - Government Buyer: - Department of Transportation (DOT) - Maritime Administration (MARAD) - Subject of Request: - M/V FRANCIS, a foreign-built small passenger vessel - Purpose: - MARAD is authorized to determine whether foreign-built, certain U.S.-built, or rebuilt vessels carrying no more than twelve passengers for hire may operate in U.S. coastwise trade - The agency is soliciting input on whether the proposed use of M/V FRANCIS would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or businesses employing U.S.-built vessels - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; the vessel M/V FRANCIS is the subject - Products/Services Requested: - No products or services are being directly procured - No part numbers or purchase quantities specified - Unique Requirements: - Regulatory determination focused on potential impact to U.S. shipbuilding and related businesses - Public comment period to inform decision - No procurement of goods or services; this is a request for information to support regulatory action
Description
The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the Department of Transportation, is authorized to determine the coastwise use of foreign-built and certain U.S.-built vessels carrying no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received a request for such a determination regarding the vessel M/V FRANCIS and is soliciting public comments to assess whether the proposed use would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses using U.S.-built vessels. Comments are requested to assist in this determination and must be submitted by October 5, 2026. The notice includes information about the requestor's vessel and proposed service.