US DEVELOPMENTS – March 2024
Please find the monthly report prepared by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) for March 2024 at Annex A.
The report at Annex A:
1. The report details that the US Coast Guard proposed new cybersecurity rules for US vessels and maritime facilities under the Maritime Transportation Security Act and requests for a 30-day extension on the public comment deadline have been made;
2. Makes a note that the USCG Authorization Act passed the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and awaits full House debate. It includes provisions from the American Offshore Worker Fairness Act and addresses risk-based inspection of tank vessels, aiming to optimise US Coast Guard resources. No specific Senate actions have been scheduled yet;
3. Outlines the Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act and updates that the House has passed the bill and now awaits Senate Commerce Committee action, with no scheduled hearings or debates currently;
4. Notes that the CSA is tracking several maritime-related bills, which are yet to see any movement, addressing issues like the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act, Renewable Fuel for Ocean-Going Vessels Act, American Port Access Privileges Act, Clean Shipping Act, International Maritime Pollution Accountability Act, Ocean Shipping Antitrust Enforcement Act and Stop Harboring Iranian Petroleum Act;
5. Mentions that six major labour unions filed a petition to the US Trade Representative (USTR) seeking relief from China’s policies in maritime, logistics and shipbuilding. They allege unfair practices, including subsidies and anticompetitive activities that harm US commerce and threaten national security. The petition requests remedies like port fees on Chinese-built ships and a Shipbuilding Revitalization Fund. The outcome is uncertain, pending USTR evaluation. CSA will monitor and provide updates;
6. And details that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) held a workshop to find technologies to reduce ship strikes on North Atlantic Right Whales. CSA opposed NOAA’s proposed expansion of protection measures, suggesting a focus on technology solutions. The workshop outcomes may influence NOAA’s final decision.