Source: https://uscode.house.gov/view.xhtml?req=granuleid%3AUSC-prelim-title46-subtitle2-partF&saved=%7CZ3JhbnVsZWlkOlVTQy1wcmVsaW0tdGl0bGU0Ni1jaGFwdGVyODEtZnJvbnQ%3D%7C%7C%7C0%7Cfalse%7Cprelim&edition=prelim
Timestamp: 2020-07-06 06:05:32
Document Index: 379568787

Matched Legal Cases: ['§8301', '§29', '§11', '§7', '§322', '§729', '§1104', '§617', '§729', '§729', '§729', '§729', '§729', '§1104', '§29', '§29', '§8302', '§1', '§515', '§8303', '§29', '§29', '§1', '§4116', '§307', '§301', '§307', '§29', '§5', '§402', '§11', '§731', '§1104', '§324', '§731', '§402', '§8702', '§402', '§5', '§4302', '§602', '§732', '§732', '§732', '§602', '§602', '§402', '§402', '§8703', '§18', '§3546', '§8704', '§5', '§101', '§211', '§5', '§1', '§8901', '§733', '§8902', '§8903', '§1', '§8904', '§12', '§409', '§12', '§409', '§8905', '§734', '§1104', '§606', '§734', '§1104', '§8906', '§306', '§9101', '§4106', '§9102', '§4114', '§1115', '§302', '§303', '§1', '§1118', '§418', '§15', '§621', '§1', '§1118', '§1', '§1118', '§1', '§1118', '§1', '§1118']

[USC02] 46 USC Subtitle II, Part F: Manning of Vessels
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46 USC Subtitle II, Part F: Manning of Vessels
Part F—Manning of Vessels
CHAPTER 83—MASTERS AND OFFICERS
Minimum number of licensed individuals.
Staff department.
Service under licenses issued without examination.
Implementing the Officers' Competency Certificates Convention, 1936.
For certain vessels of the United States, chapter 83 prescribes the minimum number of licensed individuals (including masters), establishes the staff department consisting of medical and clerical personnel, restricts service under certain licenses issued without examination, and implements the Officers' Competency Certificates Convention of 1936.
§8301. Minimum number of licensed individuals
(a) Except as provided in chapter 89 of this title and except for a vessel operating only on rivers, harbors, lakes (except the Great Lakes), bays, sounds, bayous, and canals, a vessel subject to inspection under chapter 33 of this title shall engage a minimum of licensed individuals as follows:
(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 section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title and propelled by machinery shall have 3 licensed mates, except—
(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 section 8101 of this title.
(3) A vessel of at least 200 gross tons but less than 1,000 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title and propelled by machinery shall have 2 licensed mates.
(4) A vessel of at least 100 gross tons but less than 200 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title and propelled by machinery shall have one licensed mate. However, if the vessel is on a voyage of more than 24 hours, it shall have 2 licensed mates.
(5) A freight vessel or a passenger vessel of at least 300 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title and propelled by machinery shall have a licensed engineer.
(b)(1) An offshore supply vessel of less than 500 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title or 6,000 gross tons as measured under section 14302 of this title on a voyage of less than 600 miles shall have a licensed mate. If the vessel is on a voyage of at least 600 miles, however, the vessel shall have 2 licensed mates.
(2) An offshore supply vessel of at least 6,000 gross tons as measured under section 14302 of this title on a voyage of less than 600 miles shall have at least two licensed mates, provided the offshore supply vessel meets the requirements of section 8104(g)(2). An offshore supply vessel of at least 6,000 gross tons as measured under section 14302 of this title on a voyage of at least 600 miles shall have three licensed mates.
(3) An offshore supply vessel of more than 200 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title, may not be operated without a licensed engineer.
(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.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 550; Pub. L. 98–557, §29(c), (d), Oct. 30, 1984, 98 Stat. 2873, 2874; Pub. L. 99–640, §11(d), Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3550; Pub. L. 100–448, §7, Sept. 28, 1988, 102 Stat. 1842; Pub. L. 103–206, title III, §322(b), Dec. 20, 1993, 107 Stat. 2428; Pub. L. 104–324, title VII, §729, title XI, §1104(d), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3940, 3967; Pub. L. 111–281, title VI, §617(c), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2973.)
8301 46:223
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.
2010—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 111–281 amended subsec. (b) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (b) read as follows: "An offshore supply vessel on a voyage of less than 600 miles shall have a licensed mate. However, if the vessel is on a voyage of at least 600 miles, the vessel shall have 2 licensed mates. An offshore supply vessel of more than 200 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title may not be operated without a licensed engineer."
1996—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 104–324, §729(1), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "1,000 gross tons".
Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 104–324, §729(2), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "1,000 gross tons".
Subsec. (a)(4). Pub. L. 104–324, §729(3), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "200 gross tons".
Subsec. (a)(5). Pub. L. 104–324, §729(4), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "300 gross tons".
Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–324, §729(5), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "200 gross tons".
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 104–324, §1104(d), amended subsec. (e) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (e) read as follows: "A vessel used only to respond to a discharge of oil or a hazardous substance shall have—
"(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). Pub. L. 103–206 added subsec. (e).
1988—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 100–448 amended par. (2) generally. Prior to amendment, par. (2) read as follows: "A vessel of at least 1,000 gross tons and propelled by machinery shall have 3 licensed mates. However, if the vessel is on a voyage of less than 400 miles from port of departure to port of final destination, it shall have 2 licensed mates."
1986—Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 99–640 inserted ", a mobile offshore drilling unit when on location,".
1984—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 98–557, §29(c), in provisions preceding par. (1) inserted exception for the Great Lakes and substituted provisions relating to inspection under chapter 33 of this title for provisions relating to applicability of part B of this subtitle.
Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 98–557, §29(d), inserted "propelled by machinery or carrying passengers".
§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
(b) The staff department on a vessel is a separate and independent department. It consists of individuals registered under section 7101 of this title, clerks, and individuals assigned to the senior registered medical doctor.
(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 persons 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.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 551; Pub. L. 99–36, §1(a)(4), May 15, 1985, 99 Stat. 67; Pub. L. 109–163, div. A, title V, §515(f)(3)(A), Jan. 6, 2006, 119 Stat. 3236.)
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.
2006—Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 109–163 substituted "Navy Reserve" for "Naval Reserve".
1985—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 99–36 inserted a comma after "clerks".
§8303. Service under licenses issued without examination
An individual issued a license without examination before October 29, 1941, to serve as master, mate, or engineer on a vessel not subject to inspection under part B of this subtitle, may not serve under authority of that license on a vessel that is subject to inspection under part B.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 552.)
8303 46:224a
Section 8303 prohibits an individual licensed without an examination on an uninspected vessel prior to October 29, 1941, from serving as a master, mate, or engineer on an inspected vessel.
CHAPTER 85—PILOTS
State regulation of pilots.
Federal pilots required.
Federal pilots authorized.
Chapter 85 provides for State pilotage to be regulated by the States and only in conformity with the laws of the States. It clearly spells out the preeminence of the State's role in regulating pilots for vessels operating on the bays, rivers, harbors, and ports of the United States. However, those vessels that are required to have a Federally licensed pilot, those that operate on waters outside the territorial sea of the United States, and those that operate on waters of the Great Lakes are not subject to State pilotage laws or requirements. In essence this chapter, with minor changes, confirms the State and Federal relationship with respect to pilotage that has evolved since the founding of the Nation.
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.
1984—Pub. L. 98–557, §29(f)(3)(B), Oct. 30, 1984, 98 Stat. 2874, added item 8503.
(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 section 7101 of this title if the vessel is—
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 553; Pub. L. 98–557, §29(f)(1), (2), Oct. 30, 1984, 98 Stat. 2874; Pub. L. 99–307, §1(13), May 19, 1986, 100 Stat. 446; Pub. L. 101–380, title IV, §§4116(a), (b), 4302(g), Aug. 18, 1990, 104 Stat. 522, 539; Pub. L. 101–595, title III, §307, Nov. 16, 1990, 104 Stat. 2985; Pub. L. 105–383, title III, §301(b)(7), Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3417.)
1998—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 105–383 substituted "not beyond 3 nautical miles from the baselines from which the territorial sea of the United States is measured" for "not on the high seas".
1990—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 101–595, §307(1), substituted "subsections (g) and (i)" for "subsection (g)" in introductory provisions.
1986—Subsec. (a)(4)(A). Pub. L. 99–307 substituted "part" for "Part".
1984—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 98–557, §29(f)(1), amended subsec. (a) generally, which prior to amendment read as follows: "A coastwise seagoing vessel, when not sailing on register and when underway (except on the high seas), shall be under the direction and control of a pilot licensed under section 7101 of this title if the vessel is—
CHAPTER 87—UNLICENSED PERSONNEL
Merchant mariners' documents required.
1988—Pub. L. 100–239, §5(f)(2), Jan. 11, 1988, 101 Stat. 1781, added item 8704.
(a) This section applies to a merchant vessel of at least 100 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title except—
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 554; Pub. L. 98–364, title IV, §402(12)(A), July 17, 1984, 98 Stat. 449; Pub. L. 99–640, §11(c), Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3550; Pub. L. 104–324, title VII, §731, title XI, §1104(e), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3940, 3967; Pub. L. 107–295, title III, §324(b), Nov. 25, 2002, 116 Stat. 2104.)
2002—Subsec. (a)(9), (10). Pub. L. 107–295 added par. (9) and redesignated former par. (9) as (10).
1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–324, §731(1), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "100 gross tons" in introductory provisions.
1986—Subsec. (a)(8). Pub. L. 99–640 added par. (8).
1984—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 98–364, §402(12)(A)(i), substituted "fishing, fish tender, or whaling" for "fishing or whaling".
§8702. Certain crew requirements
(3) a fishing, fish tender, or whaling vessel (except a fish tender vessel engaged in the Aleutian trade) or a yacht;
(6) a fish processing vessel entered into service before January 1, 1988, and not more than 1,600 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title or 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; and
(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.
(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 section 8104 of this title to maintain a 2-watch system; or
(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.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 554; Pub. L. 98–364, title IV, §402(12)(B), July 17, 1984, 98 Stat. 449; Pub. L. 100–239, §5(e), Jan. 11, 1988, 101 Stat. 1781; Pub. L. 101–380, title IV, §4302(i), Aug. 18, 1990, 104 Stat. 539; Pub. L. 101–595, title VI, §602(e)(2), Nov. 16, 1990, 104 Stat. 2992; Pub. L. 104–324, title VII, §732, Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3941.)
8702 46:643
1996—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 104–324, §732(1), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "100 gross tons" in introductory provisions.
Subsec. (a)(6). Pub. L. 104–324, §732(2), inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "1,600 gross tons".
1990—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 101–595, §602(e)(2)(A), substituted "vessel (except a fish tender vessel engaged in the Aleutian trade)" for "vessel".
Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 101–595, §602(e)(2)(B), inserted provisions authorizing reduction to 50 percent of the deck crew in the case of a fish tender vessel engaged in the Aleutian trade.
Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 101–380 substituted "$10,000" for "$500".
1988—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 100–239 substituted "operate" for "depart from a port of the United States".
1984—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 98–364, §402(12)(B)(i), substituted "fishing, fish tender, or whaling" for "fishing or whaling".
Subsec. (a)(6), (7). Pub. L. 98–364, §402(12)(B)(ii)– (iv), added pars. (6) and (7).
§8703. Tankermen on tank vessels
(a) A vessel of the United States to which chapter 37 of this title applies, that has on board oil or hazardous material in bulk as cargo or cargo residue, shall have a specified number of the crew certified as tankermen as required by the Secretary. This requirement shall be noted on the certificate of inspection issued to the vessel.
(b) A vessel to which section 3702(b) of this title applies shall have on board as a crewmember in charge of the transfer operation an individual certified as a tankerman (qualified for the grade of fuel transferred), unless a master, mate, pilot, engineer, or operator licensed under section 7101 of this title is present in charge of the transfer. If the vessel does not have that individual on board, chapter 37 of this title applies to the vessel.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 555; Pub. L. 98–557, §18, Oct. 30, 1984, 98 Stat. 2869; Pub. L. 115–232, div. C, title XXXV, §3546(h), Aug. 13, 2018, 132 Stat. 2326.)
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 chapter 37 apply to the vessel.
2018—Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 115–232 redesignated subsec. (c) as (b).
1984—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 98–557 struck out subsec. (b) which contained duplicate tankerman manning requirements. See section 7317(a) of this title.
§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 (8 U.S.C. 1324a) if the alien is an unlicensed individual employed on a fishing, fish processing, or fish tender vessel that—
(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 (16 U.S.C. 1802).
(Added Pub. L. 100–239, §5(f)(1), Jan. 11, 1988, 101 Stat. 1781; amended Pub. L. 104–208, div. A, title I, §101(a) [title II, §211(b)], Sept. 30, 1996, 110 Stat. 3009, 3009-41.)
1996—Par. (2). Pub. L. 104–208 substituted "Magnuson-Stevens Fishery" for "Magnuson Fishery".
Pub. L. 100–239, §5(f)(3), Jan. 11, 1988, 101 Stat. 1781, provided that: "With respect to an alien who is deemed to be employed in the United States under section 8704 of title 46, United States Code (as amended by this subsection), the term 'date of the enactment of this section' [translated as "November 6, 1986"] as used in section 274A(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act [former 8 U.S.C. 1324a(i)] means the date 180 days after the enactment of this section [Jan. 11, 1988]."
CHAPTER 89—SMALL VESSEL MANNING
Self-propelled, uninspected passenger vessels.
Chapter 89 provides for the manning of freight vessels, small passenger vessels, uninspected passenger vessels, and towing vessels. It permits a licensed operator to be in charge of a vessel in lieu of a licensed master or pilot. It also sets forth exemption and civil penalties.
1986—Pub. L. 99–307, §1(14)(A), May 19, 1986, 100 Stat. 446, substituted "Self-propelled, uninspected" for "Uninspected" in item 8903.
§8901. Freight vessels
A freight vessel of less than 100 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title shall be operated by an individual licensed by the Secretary to operate that type of vessel in the particular geographic area, under prescribed regulations.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 555; Pub. L. 104–324, title VII, §733, Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3941.)
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.
§8902. Small passenger vessels
8902 46:390b
§8903. Self-propelled, uninspected passenger vessels
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 555; Pub. L. 99–307, §1(14)(B), (C), May 19, 1986, 100 Stat. 446.)
8903 46:1461(e), (f)
1986—Pub. L. 99–307 substituted "Self-propelled, uninspected" for "Uninspected" in section catchline and "A self-propelled," for "An" in text.
§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).
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 555; Pub. L. 99–640, §12(a), Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3550; Pub. L. 108–293, title IV, §409(a), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1044.)
8904 46:405(b)(2)
Pub. L. 99–640, §12(b), Nov. 10, 1986, 100 Stat. 3551, provided that: "The amendments made by subsection (a) of this section [amending this section] shall take effect on January 1, 1988."
Pub. L. 108–293, title IV, §409(b), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1045, provided that: "Prior to prescribing regulations under this section [amending this section] the Secretary shall conduct and report to the Congress on the results of a demonstration project involving the implementation of Crew Endurance Management Systems on towing vessels. The report shall include a description of the public and private sector resources needed to enable implementation of Crew Endurance Management Systems on all United States-flag towing vessels."
§8905. Exemptions
(a) Section 8903 of this title applies to a recreational vessel operated in dealer demonstrations only if the Secretary decides that the application of section 8903 is necessary for recreational vessel safety under section 4302(d) of this title.
(b) Section 8904 of this title does not apply to an oil spill response vessel while engaged in oil spill response or training activities.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 556; Pub. L. 104–324, title VII, §734, title XI, §1104(f), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3941, 3967; Pub. L. 111–281, title VI, §606, Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2967.)
8905(a) 46:1461(f)
2010—Subsecs. (b), (c). Pub. L. 111–281 redesignated subsec. (c) as (b) and struck out former subsec. (b) which read as follows: "Section 8904 of this title does not apply to a vessel of less than 200 gross tons as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title engaged in the offshore mineral and oil industry if the vessel has offshore mineral and oil industry sites or equipment as its ultimate destination or place of departure."
1996—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 104–324, §734, inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "200 gross tons".
Subsec. (c). Pub. L. 104–324, §1104(f), added 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.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 556; Pub. L. 104–324, title III, §306(b), Oct. 19, 1996, 110 Stat. 3918.)
8906 46:390d
Section 8906 prescribes the penalties for violations of this chapter.
1996—Pub. L. 104–324 substituted "not more than $25,000" for "$1,000".
CHAPTER 91—TANK VESSEL MANNING STANDARDS
Standards for foreign tank vessels.
Standards for tank vessels of the United States.
Chapter 91 prescribes manning standards for certain foreign and United States tank vessels carrying oil or hazardous materials.
§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 chapter 37 of this title applies—
(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.
(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.
(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 chapter 37 of this title applies that has on board oil or hazardous material in bulk as cargo or cargo residue shall have a specified number of personnel certified as tankerman or equivalent, as required by the Secretary, when the vessel transfers oil or hazardous material in a port or place subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. The requirement of this subsection shall be noted in applicable terminal operating procedures. A transfer operation may take place only if the crewmember in charge is capable of clearly understanding instructions in English.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 556; Pub. L. 101–380, title IV, §4106(a), Aug. 18, 1990, 104 Stat. 513.)
9101(a) 46:391a(11)
1990—Subsec. (a). Pub. L. 101–380 amended subsec. (a) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (a) read as follows: "The Secretary shall—
"(1) periodically evaluate the manning, training, qualification, and watchkeeping standards prescribed by the certificating country of a foreign vessel to which chapter 37 of this title applies, that operates on the navigable waters of the United States and transfers oil or hazardous material in a port or place under the jurisdiction of the United States; and
"(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."
§9102. Standards for tank vessels of the United States
(a) The Secretary shall prescribe standards for the manning of each vessel of the United States to which chapter 37 of this title applies, related to the duties, qualifications, and training of the officers and crew of the vessel, including standards related to—
(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.
(b) The Secretary shall waive the application of criteria required by subsection (a)(5) of this section for an individual having a license or certificate (including a renewal of the license or certificate) in effect on October 17, 1978. When the waiver is granted, the Secretary may prescribe conditions for the license or certificate and its renewal, as the Secretary decides are reasonable and necessary for the safety of a vessel on which the individual may be employed.
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 556; Pub. L. 101–380, title IV, §4114(d), Aug. 18, 1990, 104 Stat. 517.)
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).
1990—Par. (8). Pub. L. 101–380 added par. (8).
(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 section 9303 of this title.
(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 section 9303 of this title.
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.
1996—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 104–324, §1115(b)(5), substituted "subsections (d), (e), and (f)" for "subsections (d) and (e)".
1990—Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 101–380 amended subsec. (b) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (b) read as follows: "An individual of a vessel licensed for navigation on the Great Lakes under section 7101 of this title, or equivalent provisions of Canadian law, and qualified for the route being navigated, may serve as the pilot required on waters not designated by the President."
2006—Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 109–241, §302(1), inserted at end "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."
1996—Subsec. (a)(2). Pub. L. 104–324 inserted "as measured under section 14502 of this title, or an alternate tonnage measured under section 14302 of this title as prescribed by the Secretary under section 14104 of this title" after "4,000 gross tons".
(Pub. L. 98–89, Aug. 26, 1983, 97 Stat. 559; Pub. L. 105–383, title III, §303, Nov. 13, 1998, 112 Stat. 3418; Pub. L. 106–554, §1(a)(4) [div. A, §1118], Dec. 21, 2000, 114 Stat. 2763, 2763A-209; Pub. L. 108–293, title IV, §418(d), Aug. 9, 2004, 118 Stat. 1049; Pub. L. 109–304, §15(23), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1704; Pub. L. 111–281, title VI, §621(a), Oct. 15, 2010, 124 Stat. 2976.)
2010—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 111–281 substituted "September 30, 2020" for "September 30, 2010".
2006—Subsec. (b)(2)(A). Pub. L. 109–304 substituted "the President" for "The President".
2004—Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 108–293 substituted "September 30, 2010" for "September 30, 2005".
2000—Subsec. (b)(2)(A). Pub. L. 106–554, §1(a)(4) [div. A, §1118(1)], amended subpar. (A) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (A) read as follows: "three members who are practicing Great Lakes pilots and who reflect a regional balance;".
Subsec. (b)(2)(E). Pub. L. 106–554, §1(a)(4) [div. A, §1118(2)], amended subpar. (E) generally. Prior to amendment, subpar. (E) read as follows: "one member representing the interests of the general public, who is an independent expert on the Great Lakes maritime industry."
Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 106–554, §1(a)(4) [div. A, §1118(3)], which directed the striking out of second sentence in subsec. (C)(2), was executed by striking out the second sentence in subsec. (c)(2), "The representatives shall, as appropriate, report to and advise the Committee on matters relating to Great Lakes pilotage.", to reflect the probable intent of Congress.
Subsec. (f)(1). Pub. L. 106–554, §1(a)(4) [div. A, §1118(5)], substituted "September 30, 2005" for "September 30, 2003".