FMC Proposes To Amend GMDSS Rule

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is proposing to amend its rules for the purpose of furthering the implementation of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). The proposal is also intended to continue the process of streamlining, consolidating, and revising domestic maritime radio regulations. The proposal would, among other things, establish a voluntary restricted GMDSS license to address needs of recreational vessel operators, permit unattended operation of non-DSC (digital selective calling) equipment, prohibit ship stations from including any device capable of transmitting on a distress frequency without regulatory authorization, permit use of Channels 75 and 76 for navigation-related port operations, incorporate DSC and GMDSS procedures, require small passenger vessels to be equipped with DSC equipment, mandate that on passenger ships at least one qualified person be assigned to perform only radio communications during distress situations, and incorporate additional SOLAS requirements for equipment. Source: HK Law