USCG publishes Interim Rule
The US Coast Guard announced publication in the Federal Register of an Interim Rule regarding Double Hull Tanker Escorts on the Waters of Prince William Sound, Alaska (PWS).
This rulemaking revises the escort requirements for certain tankers (33 CFR 168) on the waters of PWS.
This rulemaking is necessary to implement section 711 of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010 (Pub. L. 111-281), which mandates two tug escorts for double hull tankers over 5,000 gross tons carrying oil in bulk on the waters of PWS. Through the Act, the Coast Guard was directedto promulgate interim regulations as soon and practicable to ensure that tug escort requirements apply to double hull tankers.
For more information, read the Marine Safety Information Bulletin 031/13
