Opportunity
Federal Register #MARAD-2026-1456
Request for Comments on Use of Foreign-Built Small Passenger Vessel M/V BOWDITCH in U.S. Coastwise Trade
Buyer
Maritime Administration
Posted
September 28, 2026
Respond By
October 28, 2026
Identifier
MARAD-2026-1456
The Maritime Administration (MARAD), under the Department of Transportation, is seeking public comments on the proposed use of the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V BOWDITCH in U.S. coastwise trade. - Government Buyer: - Maritime Administration (MARAD), Department of Transportation - Subject of Request: - Foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V BOWDITCH - OEMs and Vendors: - No specific OEMs or vendors are named; the vessel itself is the focus - Products/Services Requested: - No products or services are being procured - No part numbers or quantities specified - Unique Requirements: - Public comments must address whether the use of M/V BOWDITCH would cause undue adverse effects on U.S. vessel builders or businesses using U.S.-built vessels in coastwise trade - Supporting documentation may be submitted - Instructions provided for confidential submissions - Purpose: - Regulatory determination based on public input, not direct procurement
Description
The Maritime Administration, part of the Department of Transportation, has issued a notice requesting comments on the use of a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V BOWDITCH, in United States coastwise trade. The notice seeks public input to determine whether the proposed use of the vessel would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses that use U.S.-built vessels. Comments are to be submitted by October 28, 2026, and should address any undue adverse effects with supporting documentation. The notice includes instructions for submitting comments and information about confidentiality and public availability of comments.