The Coast Guard Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC) has issued Marine Safety Information Bulletin (MSIB) 04-22 announcing the Suspension of USCG Inspection Fees for TSMS Option – Subchapter M Towing Vessel.
The information bulletin can be viewed by clicking the link below.
2/18/22 – RADM Mauger issued MSIB 01-22 Ensuring the Validity of Merchant Mariner Credentials and Endorsements. This notice speaks to the employer’s responsibility for determining whether mariners are qualified to serve in specific roles that require licensure. The notice provides recommendations for steps to take at hiring and for periodically reviewing employees’ credentials throughout the term of their employment. The notice contains hyperlinks to the Merchant Mariner Mariner Verification tool, National Maritime Center, local Regional Exam Centers, and a link to sign up for email notifications. Also included in the notice is a QR code to download the mobile app for the Coast Guard Investigative Services (CGIS) to report suspected credentialing fraud or other criminal acts.
Published 08/17/2020
US Coast Guard District 8 published an MSIB on the IHNC lock closure and the impacts on ITVs with COIs issued for Rivers Routes.
Effective 08/31/2020 and continuing for approximately for 60 days the IHNC will be closed to all marine traffic due to dewatering operations, repairs, and maintenance. For the duration of the closure an alternate route has been established utilizing the Mississippi River (Alternate Route). The Alternate Route will be completed by transiting via the Baptiste Collette Bayou Channel, through Breton and Chandeleur Sounds, as well as to and from the eastern reaches of the GIWW near its intersection with the Gulfport Ship Channel.
The USCG has made arrangements for vessels subject to 46 CFR Subchapter M that normally operate on Rivers routes (less than 3 nautical miles from shore) as indicated in the MSIB.
