USCG to Release Response Plan Information on Internet

The USCG will proceed with its plan to make general information on tank vessel response plans available to the public via the Internet. However, the agency has clarified the information released will not include technical or operational details such as vessel plans and diagrams, phone numbers or addresses of qualified individuals, specific information on vessel cargoes or routes, or contractual details of a vessel owner's arrangements with oil spill removal organizations. Because information contained in vessel response plans is covered by the Freedom of Information Act, the USCG is required to make it available to the public, unless it is covered by one of the Act's listed exemptions. The USCG has concluded the release of the following general information will not cause substantial competitive harm to plan submitters: owner name; operator name; addresses for owner, operator, and plan preparer; date of last plan update; plan approval status; plan approval date; plan expiration date; plan identification number; vessel name; vessel identification number; vessel flag; vessel type; hull configuration; vessel length; cargo type (one of five general groups based on specific gravity); primary or secondary carrier designation; worst case discharge amount; name and company of qualified individuals; oil spill removal organizations; other contracted resources; alternate compliance agreements; navigational restrictions; and generic operating environment (e.g., offshore, nearshore, inland, etc.).