USCG enforcement of SOLAS

The U.S. Coast Guard issued a Notice informing owners and operators of U.S. flag vessels that operate from foreign ports of its policy regarding the application of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS Convention). It basically recommends that all such U.S. vessels that fall within the applicability provisions of SOLAS and do not have a current SOLAS exemption certificate come into full compliance. The policy is effective immediately. Comments on this notice should be submitted by September 20, 2004. 69 Fed. Reg. 34383 (HK Law).