The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) announced Wednesday the publication of the final rule finalizing changes to the inland navigation rules and their annexes in 33 Code of Federal Regulations parts 83 through 88.
This action aligns the Inland Navigation Rules in the Code of Federal Regulations with the amendments made by the International Maritime Organization to the Convention on the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, to which the United States is a signatory. Also, the action incorporates recommendations made by the Navigation Safety Advisory Council.
The changes to the current rules will reduce regulatory burdens by adding more options for vessel lighting, alleviating bell requirements, explaining whistle equipment options and adding more options for navigational equipment. These changes also address the technological advancements of wing-in-ground craft and increase public awareness of the inland navigation requirements by reorganizing and making format changes.