# Federal Register #MARAD-2026-1457

Public Comment Request: Use of Foreign-Built Passenger Vessel M/V LADY J in U.S. Coastwise Trade

**Buyer:** Maritime Administration
**Posted:** September 28, 2026
**Respond By:** October 28, 2026
**Identifier:** MARAD-2026-1457
**NAICS:** 483114

The Maritime Administration (MARAD), part of the Department of Transportation, is seeking public input regarding the potential use of the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V LADY J in U.S. coastwise trade.
- Government Buyer:
  - Department of Transportation (DOT)
  - Maritime Administration (MARAD)
- Subject of Request:
  - M/V LADY J, a foreign-built small passenger vessel
- Purpose:
  - Soliciting comments on whether the use of M/V LADY J would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or businesses operating U.S.-built vessels in coastwise trade
- No specific OEMs or vendors are named; the focus is on the vessel itself
- No products or purchase quantities are specified
- Unique Requirement:
  - MARAD is authorized to make determinations for vessels carrying no more than twelve passengers for hire
  - Interested parties are invited to submit supporting documentation and comments regarding potential impacts

### Description

The Secretary of Transportation, represented by the Maritime Administration (MARAD), is authorized to determine the coastwise use of foreign-built, certain U.S. built, and U.S. and foreign rebuilt vessels carrying no more than twelve passengers for hire. MARAD has received a determination request for the vessel M/V LADY J and is soliciting public comments to assess whether the proposed use would adversely affect U.S. vessel builders or U.S. coastwise trade businesses using U.S.-built vessels. The notice includes information about the vessel and its proposed service. Comments are due by October 28, 2026.

[View original listing](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/09/28/2026-19797/request-notice-use-of-foreign-built-small-passenger-vessel-in-united-states-coastwise-trade-mv-lady)