This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier for the mariner to
                                                                                access.
                                                                                This also provides for
                                                                                acceptance of various
                                                                                modes of sea service.
N/A..............................  Sec.  Sec.   11.305    Standard of competence      Provides a specific
                                    to 11.321; Sec.        from the STCW Code.         requirement to meet the
                                    Sec.   11.325 to                                   standard of competence
                                    11.335.                                            from the appropriate
                                                                                tables in the STCW Code.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.  Sec.   11.305    Requirement for training..  Includes STCW Convention
                                    to 11.325; Sec.                                    mandatory training.
                                    Sec.   11.323 to
                                    11.335.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.  Sec.   11.305    Gap closing measures from   Includes training
                                    to 11.321; Sec.        the 2010 amendments.        necessary to comply with
                                    Sec.   11.325 to                                   the 2010 amendments.
                                    11.335.                                           This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.  Sec.   11.305    Exemptions from the         Provides for exemptions
                                    to 11.321; Sec.        standard of competence.     from the tables of
                                    Sec.   11.325 to                                   competence based on
                                    11.335.                                            vessel type.
N/A..............................  Sec.  Sec.   11.305    Insert tables specifying    Describes various entry
                                    to 11.321; Sec.        entry paths from domestic   points to obtain an
                                    Sec.   11.325 to       endorsements to STCW        equivalent STCW
                                    11.335.                endorsements.               endorsement.
                                                                                This provides a method of
                                                                                determining which STCW
                                                                                endorsements are
                                                                                attainable for each
                                                                                domestic endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   11.335........  Adds a new section          This ensures consistency
                                                           providing the               with the STCW Convention.
                                                           requirements for STCW       See regulation III/6 of
                                                           officer endorsement as      the STCW Convention and
                                                           electro-technical officer.  Section A-III/6 of the
                                                                                STCW Code.
N/A..............................  Sec.   11.335........  Equivalency accepted for    Allows for the issuance of
                                                           personnel serving in a      the STCW officer
                                                           similar capacity.           endorsement as electro-
                                                                                technical officer to
                                                                                personnel with equivalent
                                                                                credentials and sea
                                                                                service.
                                                                                This makes it easier for
                                                                                an applicant to obtain
                                                                                this endorsement.

N/A..............................  Sec.   11.335........  Equivalency accepted for    Allows for the issuance of
                                                           engineer officers.          the STCW officer
                                                                                endorsement as electro-
                                                                                technical officer to
                                                                                OICEW, second engineer
                                                                                officer and chief
                                                                                engineer officer.
                                                                                This makes it easier for
                                                                                an applicant to obtain
                                                                                this endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   11.821........  High-speed craft..........  Establishes qualifications
                                                                                for operating high-speed
                                                                                craft.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Subpart J............  New section on recognition  Establishes requirements
                                                           of STCW officer             for the recognition of
                                                           endorsements issued by a    STCW Certificates issued
                                                           foreign government.         by foreign governments.
                                                                                Recognition is restricted
                                                                                to non-U.S. licensed
                                                                                officers and mariners
                                                                                with officer endorsements
                                                                                (except masters) found in
                                                                                Sec.   15.720(b).
                                                                                Application for a
                                                                                recognition certificate
                                                                                via the employer.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   12.02-7...................  Sec.   15.401........  Moves this requirement to   Moves section to part 15
                                                           Sec.   15.401.              as it is a manning
                                                                                requirement.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.
Sec.   12.02-17..................  Sec.   12.205(c).....  Amends provisions for re-   Amends waiting period
                                                           testing.                    after third failed
                                                                                examination. Deletes
                                                                                maximum waiting period of
                                                                                30 days after initial
                                                                                failure.
                                                                                This allows applicants to
                                                                                re-test earlier than the
                                                                                current time period.
Sec.   12.03.....................  Subpart D (Sec.        Consolidates Coast Guard-   Reduces regulatory
                                    10.400 series).        accepted and approved       redundancy.
                                                           training into one subpart.
Sec.   12.05-1...................  Sec.   12.401........  Adds A/B seaman             Adds able seaman-fish, and
                                                           endorsements.               able seaman-sail.
                                                                                This consolidates policy
                                                                                into the regulations.
Sec.   12.05-1(a) and (b)........  Sec.   15.401........  Moves this requirement to   Moves paragraphs to part
                                                           Sec.   15.401.              15 as it is a manning
                                                                                requirement.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.
Sec.   12.05-3...................  Sec.   12.401........  Revises the general         Clarifies the A/B
                                                           requirements to obtain an   requirement to allow
                                                           endorsement as able         being qualified for
                                                           seaman (A/B) to include     lifeboatman, and removes
                                                           holding or qualified to     the requirement to pass
                                                           hold an endorsement as      the lifeboatman exam if
                                                           lifeboatman.                the individual already
                                                                                holds the appropriate
                                                                                endorsement.
                                                                                This eases the burden on
                                                                                mariners seeking to
                                                                                obtain this endorsement.
Sec.   12.05-3(a)(2), 12.15-5,     Sec.   12.401........  Moves requirement to Sec.   Consolidates general
 12.25-20.                                                  12.401.                    requirements for
                                                                                certification.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier for the mariner to
                                                                                access.
Sec.   12.05-3(b)................  Sec.   12.601(c).....  Moves requirements for      Adds requirements for BST,
                                                           Basic Safety Training       including the requirement
                                                           (BST).                      to maintain the standard
                                                                                of competence every 5
                                                                                years through a
                                                                                combination of drills and
                                                                                onboard training and
                                                                                experience with shore-
                                                                                side assessments.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   12.05-3(c)................  Sec.   12.605........  Adds a new section to       Provides requirements for
                                                           provide the requirements    RFPNW, required by the
                                                           for ratings forming part    STCW Convention, in one
                                                           of a navigational watch     location.
                                                           (RFPNW).                   This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   12.05-7...................  Sec.   12.403........  Adds service and training   Adds service and training
                                                           requirements for new        requirements for able
                                                           rating endorsements.        seaman-fish, and able
                                                                                seaman-sail.
                                                                                This consolidates policy
                                                                                into the regulations.
Sec.   12.05-9...................  Sec.   12.405........  Adds requirement in         This consolidates existing
                                                           paragraphs (a) and (c) to   policy into the
                                                           show that the listed        regulations.
                                                           demonstrations have been
                                                           performed in a Coast
                                                           Guard-approved course.
Sec.   12.10-1...................  Sec.   15.401........  Moves this requirement to   Moves section to part 15
                                                           Sec.   15.401.              as it is a manning
                                                                                requirement.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.
Sec.   12.10-3...................  Sec.   12.609........  Moves requirements to       Moves requirement to STCW
                                                           qualify for an STCW         section.
                                                           endorsement RFPEW.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.

Sec.   12.10-7...................  Sec.   15.404........  Moves this requirement to   Moves section to part 15
                                                           Sec.   15.404.              as it is a manning
                                                                                requirement.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.
Sec.   12.10-9...................  Sec.   12.617........  Revises the requirements    Provides additional
                                                           for certificates of         information clarifying
                                                           proficiency in fast         the STCW Convention
                                                           rescue boats, adding the    requirements to obtain an
                                                           specific areas of           endorsement for
                                                           competence the STCW         proficiency in fast
                                                           Convention requires.        rescue boats.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   12.13-3...................  Sec.   12.619........  Revises the requirements    Provides additional
                                                           for certificates of         information clarifying
                                                           proficiency for medical     the STCW Convention
                                                           first-aid provider,         requirements to obtain an
                                                           adding the specific areas   endorsement for medical
                                                           of competence the STCW      first-aid provider.
                                                           Convention requires.       This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   12.13-3...................  Sec.   12.619........  Revises this basis-of-      Adds the additional
                                                           documentary-evidence        process to meet this
                                                           section to include those    requirement through the
                                                           persons who have            possession of a
                                                           alternative                 professional license or
                                                           qualifications.             alternative professional
                                                                                qualification.
                                                                                This opens up additional
                                                                                options for mariners to
                                                                                utilize in obtaining this
                                                                                endorsement.
Sec.   12.13-3...................  Sec.   12.621........  Revises the requirements    Provides additional
                                                           for certificates of         information clarifying
                                                           proficiency for person-in-  the STCW Convention
                                                           charge of medical care,     requirements to obtain an
                                                           adding the specific areas   endorsement for person-in-
                                                           of competence the STCW      charge of medical care.
                                                           Convention requires.       This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   12.13-3...................  Sec.   12.621........  Revises this basis-of-      Adds the additional
                                                           documentary-evidence        process to meet this
                                                           section to include those    requirement through the
                                                           persons who have            possession of a
                                                           alternative                 professional license or
                                                           qualifications.             alternative professional
                                                                                qualification.
                                                                                This opens up additional
                                                                                options for mariners to
                                                                                utilize in obtaining this
                                                                                endorsement.
Sec.   12.15-1...................  Sec.   15.401........  Moves this requirement to   Moves section to part 15
                                                           Sec.   15.401.              as it is a manning
                                                                                requirement.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.
Sec.   12.15-3(e)................  Sec.   12.501........  Revises the rating forming  Removes the specific
                                                           part of an engineering      requirement for the STCW
                                                           watch (RFPEW) requirement   endorsement as RFPEW
                                                           for Qualified Member of     associated with QMED and
                                                           the Engineering             moves it to its own
                                                           Department (QMED).          section.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.
Sec.   12.15-3(e)................  Sec.   12.609........  Adds a new section to       Provides requirements for
                                                           provide the requirements    RFPEW, required by the
                                                           for RFPEW.                  STCW Convention, in one
                                                                                location.
                                                                                This re-organizes the
                                                                                regulations to make them
                                                                                easier to understand.
Sec.   12.15-7...................  Sec.   12.501........  Revises the requirement to  There is no need to
                                                           provide a more general      provide specific
                                                           requirement that a QMED     information regarding the
                                                           endorsement applicant       training programs and
                                                           must complete an            courses; this information
                                                           appropriate training        is included in the course
                                                           program.                    approval letters provided
                                                                                to each training
                                                                                provider.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
Sec.   12.15-9...................  Sec.   12.501........  Reduces the number of QMED  Deletes deck engineer,
                                                           ratings from 9 to 5.        combines refrigerating
                                                                                engineer with
                                                                                electrician, and combines
                                                                                pumpman and machinist.
                                                                                This simplifies the
                                                                                regulations by removing
                                                                                several endorsements that
                                                                                are no longer used and
                                                                                combines several others.
Sec.   12.15-11..................  Sec.   12.505........  QMED rating endorsement     Revises the list of QMED
                                                           list.                       rating endorsements.
                                                                                Deletes deck engineer,
                                                                                combines refrigerating
                                                                                engineer with
                                                                                electrician, and combines
                                                                                pumpman and machinist.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
Sec.   12.15-13..................  N/A..................  Deletes deck engine         Deletes this rating for
                                                           mechanic rating as an MMC   new applicants; however,
                                                           endorsement.                companies that wish to
                                                                                continue to employ
                                                                                mariners in this rating
                                                                                may do so.
                                                                                This simplifies the
                                                                                regulations by removing
                                                                                several endorsements that
                                                                                are rarely used and
                                                                                combines several others.
Sec.   12.15-15..................  N/A..................  Deletes engineman rating    Deletes this rating for
                                                           as an MMC endorsement.      new applicants; however,
                                                                                companies that wish to
                                                                                continue to employ
                                                                                mariners in this rating
                                                                                may do so.

                                                                                This simplifies the
                                                                                regulations by removing
                                                                                several endorsements that
                                                                                are rarely used and
                                                                                combines several others.
Sec.   12.25-1...................  Sec.   12.701........  Changes section title from  Revises for clarity.
                                                           ``Credentials required''
                                                           to ``Credentials required
                                                           for entry-level and
                                                           miscellaneous ratings''.
Sec.   12.25-10..................  Sec.   12.703........  Moves general requirements  Consolidates general
                                                                                requirements for entry
                                                                                level ratings.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
Sec.   12.25-45..................  Sec.   15.818........  Moves section for GMDSS at- This re-organizes the
                                                           sea maintainer.             regulations to make them
                                                          Requires that anyone         easier to access and
                                                           serving as at-sea           follow.
                                                           maintainers on vessels
                                                           equipped with GMDSS must
                                                           provide documentary
                                                           evidence of competency.
Sec.   12.25-45..................  Sec.   12.623........  Revises section to provide  Specifies the methods of
                                                           more specific information   qualification allowed to
                                                           regarding the               obtain the endorsement.
                                                           qualification              This ensures consistency
                                                           requirements for an         with the STCW Convention
                                                           endorsement as GMDSS at-    and makes the regulations
                                                           sea maintainer.             easier to follow.
Sec.   12.30.....................  N/A..................  Deletes requirements for    Reflects the 2010 STCW
                                                           ro-ro passenger ships.      amendment changes to
                                                                                include requirements for
                                                                                passenger ships,
                                                                                including ro-ro passenger
                                                                                ships.
Sec.   12.35.....................  Sec.   12.905........  Amends requirements for     Reflects the 2010
                                                           ratings on passenger        amendment changes to
                                                           ships when in               include requirements for
                                                           international voyages.      passenger ships.
                                                                                Merges requirements from
                                                                                subparts 12.30 and 12.35.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.201........  Adds section with general   Consolidates all
                                                           requirements for domestic   requirements applicable
                                                           and STCW rating             to all rating
                                                           endorsements.               endorsements contained in
                                                                                this part.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.203........  Adds section with           Provides information on
                                                           documentation of sea        where to find the
                                                           service for ratings.        requirements for
                                                                                documentation and proof
                                                                                of sea service for
                                                                                ratings.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.409........  Adds new section with       This endorsement is for
                                                           requirements for            mariners who serve on
                                                           lifeboatman-limited         vessels without installed
                                                           endorsement.                lifeboats.
                                                                                Mariners serving on
                                                                                vessels without lifeboats
                                                                                could not qualify for the
                                                                                lifeboatman endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.601........  Adds section with general   Consolidates all
                                                           requirements applicable     requirements applicable
                                                           to STCW rating              to STCW endorsements in
                                                           endorsements.               this subpart. Establishes
                                                                                list of STCW rating
                                                                                endorsements.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.601........  Adds section with standard  Adds alternative methods
                                                           of Competence.              of demonstrating
                                                                                competence.
                                                                                This provides mariners
                                                                                with multiple options,
                                                                                where allowed by the STCW
                                                                                Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.601........  Adds section with           Adds provisions for the
                                                           grandfathering provisions.  implementation of the
                                                                                amendments to the
                                                                                requirements, including
                                                                                the 2010 amendments to
                                                                                the STCW Convention and
                                                                                Code.
                                                                                This eases the burden on
                                                                                mariners with existing
                                                                                endorsements.
N/A..............................  Sec.  Sec.   12.603--  Insert tables specifying    Describes various entry
                                    12.609.                entry paths from domestic   points to obtain an
                                                           endorsements to STCW        equivalent STCW
                                                           endorsements.               endorsement.
                                                                                This provides a method of
                                                                                determining which STCW
                                                                                endorsements are
                                                                                attainable for each
                                                                                domestic endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.603........  Adds new section with       Includes the STCW
                                                           requirements for STCW       Convention requirements
                                                           rating endorsement as       in order to obtain the
                                                           able seafarer-deck.         endorsement.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.605........  Adds new section providing  Provides specific
                                                           the requirements for        requirements for this
                                                           RFPNW.                      STCW endorsement.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.607........  Adds a new section with     Includes the STCW
                                                           requirements for STCW       Convention requirements
                                                           endorsement as able         in order to obtain the
                                                           seafarer-engine.            endorsement.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.

N/A..............................  Sec.   12.609........  Adds new section providing  Provides specific
                                                           the requirements for        requirements for this
                                                           RFPEW.                      STCW endorsement.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.611........  Adds a new section          Includes the STCW
                                                           providing the               Convention requirements
                                                           requirements for STCW       in order to obtain the
                                                           officer endorsement as      endorsement. See
                                                           electro-technical rating.   regulation III/7 of the
                                                                                STCW Convention and
                                                                                Section A-III/7 of the
                                                                                STCW Code.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.611........  Equivalent arrangements     Allows for the issuance of
                                                           for personnel serving in    the STCW endorsement as
                                                           a similar capacity.         electro-technical rating
                                                                                to personnel with
                                                                                equivalent credentials
                                                                                and sea service.
                                                                                This provides applicants
                                                                                with multiple paths to
                                                                                obtain this endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.613........  Adds new section with       This ensures consistency
                                                           requirements for            with the STCW Convention.
                                                           Proficiency in survival
                                                           craft and rescue boats
                                                           other than fast rescue
                                                           boats (PSC).
                                                          Adds requirements to
                                                           maintain the standard of
                                                           competence every 5 years
                                                           through a combination of
                                                           drills and onboard
                                                           training and experience
                                                           with shore-side
                                                           assessments.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.615........  Adds new section to         Adds new section because
                                                           provide a new endorsement   there are individuals
                                                           for proficiency in          assigned to vessels
                                                           survival craft and rescue   without lifeboats who do
                                                           boats other than            not need to meet the full
                                                           lifeboats and fast rescue   requirements for
                                                           boats (PSC-limited).        proficiency in survival
                                                                                craft and rescue boats
                                                                                other than fast rescue
                                                                                boats (PSC), but must
                                                                                still meet the
                                                                                proficiency in the
                                                                                survival craft installed
                                                                                on their vessels.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.615........  Adds new section with       This ensures consistency
                                                           requirements for            with the STCW Convention.
                                                           Proficiency in survival
                                                           craft and rescue boats
                                                           other than lifeboats and
                                                           fast rescue boats (PSC).
                                                          Adds requirements to
                                                           maintain the standard of
                                                           competence every 5 years
                                                           through a combination of
                                                           drills and onboard
                                                           training and experience
                                                           with shore-side
                                                           assessments.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.617........  Adds new section with       This ensures consistency
                                                           requirements for            with the STCW Convention.
                                                           Proficiency in fast
                                                           rescue boats.
                                                          Adds requirements to
                                                           maintain the standard of
                                                           competence every 5 years
                                                           through a combination of
                                                           drills and onboard
                                                           training and experience
                                                           with shore-side
                                                           assessments.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.625........  Adds new section with       Adds requirement for
                                                           requirements to qualify     certification of
                                                           for an STCW endorsement     personnel with security
                                                           as vessel personnel with    duties (except VSOs) in
                                                           designated security         accordance with the 2010
                                                           duties.                     amendments.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   12.627........  Adds new section with       Adds requirement for all
                                                           requirements to qualify     other personnel working
                                                           for an STCW endorsement     onboard the vessels, in
                                                           in security awareness.      accordance with the 2010
                                                                                amendments.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   13.120....................  Sec.   13.120........  Amends the requirements     Clarifies the types of
                                                           for transfers for the       transfers required
                                                           renewal of tankerman        according to the type of
                                                           endorsements.               endorsement being
                                                                                renewed.
                                                          Also adds requirements for
                                                           STCW certification valid
                                                           for tank vessels.
Sec.   13.121....................  Sec.   13.121........  Includes tables of topics   Clarifies and updates list
                                                           for each tanker course.     of subjects that the
                                                                                tanker courses must
                                                                                cover.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
Sec.   13.127....................  Sec.   13.127........  Service requirements for    Clarifies information that
                                                           tankerman-engineer.         must be included in the
                                                                                service letter for
                                                                                tankerman-engineer.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
Sec.   13.201....................  Sec.   13.201........  Moves the cargo course and  Clarifies existing
                                                           firefighting course         requirements.
                                                           requirements of this       This makes the regulations
                                                           section to Sec.   13.121.   easier to follow.

Sec.   13.301....................  Sec.   13.301........  Moves the cargo course and  Clarifies existing
                                                           firefighting course         requirements.
                                                           requirements of this       This makes the regulations
                                                           section to Sec.   13.121.   easier to follow.
Sec.   13.307, Sec.   13.309.....  Sec.   13.121........  Moves the firefighting and  Provides firefighting and
                                                           cargo course requirements   cargo training course
                                                           of this section to Sec.     subjects in the
                                                           13.121.                     appropriate table.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
Sec.   13.401....................  Sec.   13.401........  Amends Tankerman-Assistant  This ensures that an
                                                           requirements.               applicant has the
                                                                                necessary knowledge to
                                                                                obtain this endorsement.
                                                          Adds an examination
                                                           requirement for mariners
                                                           who qualify for the
                                                           endorsement on sea
                                                           service alone.
Sec.   13.407, Sec.   13.409.....  Sec.   13.121........  Moves the firefighting and  Provides firefighting and
                                                           cargo course requirements   cargo training course
                                                           of this section to Sec.     subjects in the
                                                           13.121.                     appropriate table.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
Sec.   13.501....................  Sec.   13.501........  Moves the cargo course and  Clarifies existing
                                                           firefighting course         requirements.
                                                           requirements of this       This makes the regulations
                                                           section to Sec.   13.121.   easier to follow.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.601........  Adds new section with       This opens additional
                                                           alternative methods of      paths of demonstrating
                                                           demonstrating competence    competence.
                                                           to provide mariners with
                                                           multiple options, where
                                                           allowed by the STCW
                                                           Convention.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.603........  Adds new section for STCW   This ensures consistency
                                                           endorsement for advanced    with the STCW Convention.
                                                           tankerman.                 This also ases the
                                                          Adds new STCW endorsement    transition for mariners
                                                           for advanced oil and        with similar endorsement.
                                                           chemical tanker cargo
                                                           operations, in accordance
                                                           with the 2010 amendments.
                                                           Includes grandfathering
                                                           provisions.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.603........  Adds new section with       Uses existing domestic
                                                           requirements to qualify     endorsements as
                                                           for an endorsement for      ``Tankerman PIC'' to
                                                           advanced oil tanker cargo   qualify for STCW
                                                           operations and basic        endorsements.
                                                           chemical tanker cargo      This ensures consistency
                                                           operations.                 with the STCW Convention.
                                                                                This also eases the
                                                                                transition for mariners
                                                                                with similar endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.605........  Adds new section with STCW  This ensures consistency
                                                           endorsement for advanced    with the STCW Convention.
                                                           liquefied gas tanker       This also eases the
                                                           cargo operations.           transition for mariners
                                                          Adds new STCW endorsement    with similar endorsement.
                                                           for advanced liquefied
                                                           gas tanker cargo
                                                           operations, in accordance
                                                           with the 2010 amendments.
                                                           Includes grandfathering
                                                           provisions.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.605........  Adds new section with       Uses existing domestic
                                                           requirements to qualify     endorsements as
                                                           for an endorsement for      ``Tankerman PIC'' to
                                                           advanced liquefied gas      qualify for STCW
                                                           tanker cargo operations.    endorsements.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
                                                                                This also eases the
                                                                                transition for mariners
                                                                                with similar endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.607........  Adds new section with STCW  This ensures consistency
                                                           endorsement for basic oil   with the STCW Convention.
                                                           and chemical tanker cargo  This also eases the
                                                           operations.                 transition for mariners
                                                          Adds new STCW endorsement    with similar endorsement.
                                                           for basic oil and
                                                           chemical tanker cargo
                                                           operations, in accordance
                                                           with the 2010 amendments.
                                                           Includes grandfathering
                                                           provisions.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.607........  Adds new section with       Uses existing domestic
                                                           requirements to qualify     endorsements as
                                                           for an endorsement for      ``Tankerman-assistant''
                                                           basic oil tanker cargo      and ``Tankerman-
                                                           operations and basic        engineer'' to qualify for
                                                           chemical tanker cargo       STCW endorsements.
                                                           operations.                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
                                                                                This also eases the
                                                                                transition for mariners
                                                                                with similar endorsement.
N/A..............................  Sec.   13.609........  Adds new section for STCW   This ensures consistency
                                                           endorsement for basic       with the STCW Convention.
                                                           liquefied gas tanker       This also eases the
                                                           cargo operations.           transition for mariners
                                                                                with similar endorsement.
                                                          Adds new STCW endorsement   Includes grandfathering
                                                           for basic liquefied gas     provisions
                                                           tanker cargo operations,
                                                           in accordance with the
                                                           2010 amendments..

N/A..............................  Sec.   13.609........  Adds new section with       Uses existing domestic
                                                           requirements to qualify     endorsements as
                                                           for and endorsement basic   ``Tankerman-assistant''
                                                           liquefied gas tanker        and ``Tankerman-
                                                           cargo operations.           engineer'' to qualify for
                                                                                STCW endorsements.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
                                                                                This also eases the
                                                                                transition for mariners
                                                                                with similar endorsement.
Sec.   14.309....................  Sec.   14.309........  Expands options for         In order to reflect
                                                           payment of wages upon       current practices for
                                                           discharge of a mariner.     electronic fund transfer
                                                                                for payment of wages, the
                                                                                Coast Guard proposes to
                                                                                allow companies to
                                                                                provide, instead of
                                                                                payment, a statement of
                                                                                wages due and when wages
                                                                                will be deposited.
Sec.   15.103....................  Sec.   15.105........  Adds clarification that a   Provides uninspected
                                                           safe manning certificate    vessels on international
                                                           may be issued to            voyages the necessary
                                                           uninspected vessels on an   information they will
                                                           international voyage.       need to provide Port
                                                                                State Control Officers in
                                                                                foreign ports.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   15.515....................  Sec.   15.515........  Clarifies the requirement   Provides clarification to
                                                           regarding passenger         assist in understanding
                                                           vessels.                    manning requirements
                                                                                because existing language
                                                                                is confusing.
Sec.   15.605....................  Sec.   15.605........  Adds the requirement that   UPVs operating on near-
                                                           individuals serving on      coastal domestic voyages
                                                           uninspected passenger       are held to be
                                                           vessels (UPVs) on           substantially in
                                                           international voyages       compliance with the STCW
                                                           must comply with the STCW   Convention. However, the
                                                           Convention.                 STCW Convention requires
                                                                                all individuals to be in
                                                                                compliance with the STCW
                                                                                Convention when on
                                                                                international voyages.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
                                                                                This also makes it clear
                                                                                that operators on UPVs on
                                                                                international voyages
                                                                                must obtain the
                                                                                appropriate STCW
                                                                                endorsement.
Sec.   15.805....................  Sec.   15.805........  Provides for all UPVs on    Provides consistency with
                                                           international voyages to    the STCW Convention,
                                                           be under the control of     which requires that all
                                                           an individual holding a     vessels on an
                                                           license or endorsement as   international voyage,
                                                           master.                     including UPVs, must be
                                                                                operated by an individual
                                                                                who complies with the
                                                                                STCW Convention.
Sec.   15.845....................  Sec.   15.845........  Adds manning provision for  Provides an alternative
                                                           new lifeboatman-limited     for those vessels without
                                                           rating.                     lifeboats and sets the
                                                                                provisions to use the
                                                                                lifeboatman-limited
                                                                                endorsement instead of
                                                                                the lifeboatman
                                                                                endorsement.
Sec.   15.1101...................  Sec.   15.1101.......  Moves definitions of this   This makes the regulations
                                                           section to Sec.   10.107,   easier to follow.
                                                           and this section now
                                                           provides a list of
                                                           vessels exempt from
                                                           having to comply with the
                                                           STCW Convention. Also
                                                           provides for certificates
                                                           for a single
                                                           international voyage for
                                                           persons serving on
                                                           vessels exempted under
                                                           this section.
Sec.   15.1103...................  Sec.   15.1103.......  Adds requirement for        All mariners must have a
                                                           medical certificate as a    medical certificate. The
                                                           condition of employment.    2010 amendments to the
                                                                                STCW Convention require a
                                                                                2-year medical
                                                                                certificate for all
                                                                                seafarers holding STCW
                                                                                endorsements.
                                                          In addition, provides an    This ensures consistency
                                                           extension, not to exceed    with the STCW Convention.
                                                           90 days, if the
                                                           certificate expires
                                                           during a voyage.
Sec.   15.1111...................  Sec.   15.1111.......  Revises hours of work and   The following changes are
                                                           rest periods for mariners.  included as part of the
                                                                                2010 amendments: 1)
                                                                                expanded the application
                                                                                for hours of rest periods
                                                                                for mariners; 2) amended
                                                                                the weekly rest hour
                                                                                requirements from 70
                                                                                hours to 77 hours; 3)
                                                                                recording of hours of
                                                                                rest and 4) included
                                                                                flexibility from the rest
                                                                                hour requirements in
                                                                                exceptional
                                                                                circumstances.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the STCW Convention.
Sec.   15.1111...................  Sec.   15.1111.......  Adds requirements for       This ensures consistency
                                                           persons to hold an STCW     with the STCW Convention.
                                                           endorsement for personnel
                                                           with security duties.

                                                          Adds requirement for
                                                           persons with security
                                                           duties to hold an STCW
                                                           endorsement for personnel
                                                           with security duties.
                                                           This requirement has
                                                           already been implemented
                                                           with regards to VSOs.
Sec.   15.1111...................  Sec.   15.1111.......  Adds requirements for       This ensures consistency
                                                           persons to hold an STCW     with the STCW Convention.
                                                           endorsement in security
                                                           awareness.
                                                          Adds requirement for all
                                                           other personnel working
                                                           on board the vessels to
                                                           hold an STCW endorsement
                                                           in security awareness, in
                                                           accordance with the 2010
                                                           amendments.
N/A..............................  Sec.   15.403........  Adds new section to         Requires mariners serving
                                                           establish when              on vessels over 100 GRT
                                                           credentials for ratings     to produce the
                                                           are required.               appropriate credential
                                                                                for the position sought.
                                                                                This ensures consistency
                                                                                with the U.S. Code.
N/A..............................  Sec.   15.404........  Adds new section to         Explains specific
                                                           provide the various         endorsements required and
                                                           endorsements required for   covered under these
                                                           service.                    manning requirements.
                                                                                This makes the regulations
                                                                                easier to follow.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

E. Part 12 Re-numbering

    Part 12, Requirements for Rating Endorsements, was largely
rewritten to incorporate the rating requirements of the STCW
Convention. In addition, the numbering of part 12 was changed to
reflect the numbering of the remainder of 46 CFR subchapter B.
    Below is a quick-reference table showing the subparts and sections
of the previous part 12 that were renumbered, revised, and inserted
into the new part 12.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Old reference                   NPRM reference                        New reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subpart 12.01:                         Subpart A:               Subpart A:
    Sec.   12.01-1...................     Sec.   12.101.......     Sec.   12.101
    Sec.   12.01-3...................     Sec.   12.103.......     Sec.   12.103
    Sec.   12.01-9...................     Sec.   12.105.......     Sec.   12.105
Subpart 12.02:                         Subpart B/Others:        Subpart B/Others:
    Sec.   12.02-7...................     Sec.   15.403.......     Sec.   15.401
    Sec.   12.02-11..................     Sec.   12.201.......     Sec.   12.201
    Sec.   12.02-17..................     Sec.   12.203.......     Sec.   12.205(c)
Subpart 12.03:                         Subpart C:               Subpart D:
    Sec.   12.03-1...................     Sec.   10.300 series     Sec.   10.400 series
Subpart 12.05:                         Subpart D/Others:        Subpart D/F:
    Sec.   12.05-1...................     Sec.   12.401.......     Sec.   12.401
    Sec.   12.05-3...................     Sec.   12.412.......     Sec.   12.401
    Sec.   12.05-3(c)................     Sec.   12.420.......     Sec.   12.605
    Sec.   12.05-7...................     Sec.   12.414.......     Sec.   12.403
    Sec.   12.05-7(a)(5).............     Sec.   12.420.......     Sec.   12.605
    Sec.   12.05-9...................     Sec.   12.416.......     Sec.   12.405
    Sec.   12.05-11..................     Sec.   12.418.......     Sec.   12.401
Subpart 12.10:                         --Various--:             --Various--:
    Sec.   12.10-1...................     Sec.   15.403.......     Sec.   15.401
    Sec.   12.10-3...................     Sec.   12.610.......     Sec.   12.407
    Sec.   12.10-5...................     Sec.   12.610.......     Sec.   12.407
    Sec.   12.10-7...................     Sec.   12.414.......     Sec.   12.404
    Sec.   12.10-9...................     Sec.   12.620.......     Sec.   12.617
Subpart 12.13:                         Subpart F/Others:        Subpart F:
    Sec.   12.13-1...................     Sec.   15.403.......     Sec.   12.619
    Sec.   12.13-3...................     Sec.   12.640.......     Sec.   12.619
Subpart 12.15:                         Subpart E/Others:        --Various--:
    Sec.   12.15-1...................     Sec.   15.825.......     Sec.   15.401
    Sec.   12.15-3...................     Sec.   12.510.......     Sec.   12.501
    Sec.   12.15-3(c)................     Sec.   12.510.......     Sec.   12.609
    Sec.   12.15-5...................     Sec.   12.512.......     Sec.   12.501
    Sec.   12.15-7...................     Sec.   12.514.......     Sec.   12.503
    Sec.   12.15-7(c)................     Sec.   12.530.......     Sec.   12.609
    Sec.   12.15-9...................     Sec.   12.516.......     Sec.   12.505
    Sec.   12.15-11..................     Sec.   12.518.......     Sec.   12.505
    Sec.   12.15-13..................     Sec.   12.520.......     N/A (rating removed)
    Sec.   12.15-15..................     Sec.   12.522.......     N/A (rating removed)
Subpart 12.25:                         Subpart G/F:             --Various--:
    Sec.   12.25-1...................     Sec.   12.702.......     Sec.   12.701
    Sec.   12.25-10..................     Sec.   12.704.......     Sec.   12.703
    Sec.   12.25-20..................     Sec.   12.706.......     Sec.   12.201
    Sec.   12.25-25..................     Sec.   12.710.......     Sec.   12.705

    Sec.   12.25-30..................     Sec.   12.720.......     Sec.   12.707
    Sec.   12.25-35..................     Sec.   12.730.......     Sec.   12.709
    Sec.   12.25-40..................     Sec.   12.740.......     Sec.   12.711
    Sec.   12.25-45..................     Sec.   12.650.......     Sec.   12.623
Subpart 12.30:                         Part 15-Subpt J:         N/A (combined with Subpart I):
    Sec.   12.30-1...................     Sec.   15.1103 (d)..     N/A
    Sec.   12.30-5...................     Sec.   15.1103 (d)..     N/A
Subpart 12-35:                         Part 15-Subpt J:         Subpart I:
    Sec.   12.35-1...................     Sec.   15.1103 (d)..     Sec.   12.905
    Sec.   12.35-1...................     Sec.   15.1103 (d)..     Sec.   12.905
Subpart 12.40:                         Subpart H:               Subpart H:
    Sec.   12.40-1...................     Sec.   12.801.......     Sec.   12.801
    Sec.   12.40-5...................     Sec.   12.803.......     Sec.   12.803
    Sec.   12.40-7...................     Sec.   12.805.......     Sec.   12.805
    Sec.   12.40-9...................     Sec.   12.807.......     Sec.   12.807
    Sec.   12.40-11..................     Sec.   12.809.......     Sec.   12.809
    Sec.   12.40-13..................     Sec.   12.811.......     Sec.   12.811
    Sec.   12.40-15..................     Sec.   12.813.......     Sec.   12.813
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

VII. Discussion of Comments on the NPRM

    The Coast Guard received more than 1,200 comments in response to
the NPRM published on November 17, 2009. These comments consist of
letters to the docket, remarks at the public meetings in Miami, New
Orleans, Seattle, Washington, DC, and New York, and comments submitted
by MERPAC. The following paragraphs contain an analysis of comments
received and an explanation of any changes made in the rule as
proposed.
    Several comments noted grammatical and non-substantive errors in
the NPRM. The Coast Guard has incorporated these comments, where
appropriate, without further discussion.

Project Title

    One commenter states that this rulemaking is incorrectly titled,
introduced, and described. The commenter feels the title implies that
the only changes are as a result of STCW and that there are many
changes that seriously impact domestic vessels. The commenter says this
project should be restricted to only STCW implementation or a correctly
titled and described rulemaking should be republished.
    The Coast Guard agrees that the title of this rulemaking project is
no longer an accurate reflection of the changes being proposed, which
include changes to domestic licensing. Accordingly, this SNPRM
appropriately changes the title to include changes to domestic
endorsements in addition to implementation of the 1995 STCW Amendments.

Applicability

    Two commenters state that the STCW Convention requirements should
be applied to mariners serving on all U.S. vessels on both inland and
seagoing waters.
    The Coast Guard disagrees. The STCW Convention applies to mariners
serving on seagoing ships (except pleasure craft, fishing vessels, and
ships entitled to sovereign immunity such as warships). Article II of
the Convention defines a seagoing ship as a ship other than one that
``navigates exclusively in inland waters or in waters within, or
closely adjacent to, sheltered waters or areas where port regulations
apply.'' The provisions in this SNPRM which would implement amendments
to the STCW Convention only apply to commercial vessels operating
seaward of the boundary line, as specified in 46 CFR part 7. As stated
in Article III of the STCW Convention, the Convention ``shall apply to
seafarers serving on board seagoing ships entitled to fly the flag of a
Party * * *'' \1\ Article II of the Convention defines ``seagoing
ship'' as a ship other than those navigating exclusively in inland
waters or waters within or adjacent to sheltered waters. The Coast
Guard does not intend to apply strict international standards upon our
domestic mariners in this regard. As such, the Coast Guard would apply
the STCW provisions only to vessels operating beyond the boundary line.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \1\ Article III lays out four exceptions to its application:
``(a) warships, naval auxiliaries or other ships owned or operated
by a State and engaged only on governmental non-commercial service *
* *; (b) fishing vessels; (c) pleasure yachts not engaged in trade;
or (d) wooden ships of primitive build.'' International Convention
on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for
Seafarers, 1978.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Two commenters note that the preamble to the NPRM states ``* * *our
entire scheme of licensing, testing, inspection and continued oversight
for inland water and Great Lakes provides a level of safety equivalent
to the STCW convention.'' The commenter asks why this thinking should
not extend to vessels that sail beyond the boundary or on short,
international voyages and therefore why the Coast Guard does not make
those vessels exempt from the STCW provisions.
    STCW is not applicable to inland waters. The Coast Guard has chosen
not to extend STCW requirements to inland waters but recognizes that as
a signatory to the Convention, we must ensure our rules are consistent
with the requirements for ships on seagoing voyages. In accordance with
Article I of the STCW Convention and as signatory to the Convention,
the United States is obliged to give the Convention full and complete
effect to ensure that, from the point of view of safety of life and
property at sea and the protection of the marine environment, seafarers
onboard ships are qualified and fit for their duties. Therefore, the
Coast Guard is not able to exempt seagoing ships on the grounds that
they operate on short international voyages.

Delay Implementation and Extend Public Comment Period

    Ninety-two commenters request that the Coast Guard delay
implementation of the NPRM because of the significant impact of the
regulatory content on merchant mariners. Many of those commenters also
request that the Coast Guard withdraw the NPRM and combine its contents
with proposed regulations forthcoming as a result of the International
Maritime Organization (IMO) 2010 amendments to the STCW Convention and
Code, which were completed in June 2010. Many of these commenters also
requested that the Coast Guard extend the comment period beyond the 90
days given in the NPRM.
    The Coast Guard agrees and has decided to publish this SNPRM, which

describes proposed changes from the NPRM published on November 17,
2009, and includes the new proposed regulations, which address the IMO
2010 amendments to the STCW Convention and Code. To accommodate
requests for an additional comment opportunity, the Coast Guard has
issued this SNPRM with a 60-day comment period.

Definitions

    Two commenters state that in proposed Sec.  10.107, the definition
of ``Quality Standard System or QSS'' provides no guidance as to what
training institutions in the field will be required to do.
    The QSS requirements are contained in Sec.  10.410. The provisions
include: (1) Documentation that includes a quality policy and
objectives and a quality manual; (2) internal audits; and (3) an
external audit to be conducted by the Coast Guard.
    One commenter asks how the Coast Guard determines whether a
vessel's operating schedule is ``inappropriate'' in determining the
length of a day, as described in the definition for ``day'' provided in
the proposed Sec.  10.107.
    The Coast Guard will review vessel manning requirements and
applicable laws and regulations to determine if the vessel is
authorized to operate under a two-watch system. The Coast Guard will
also review vessel operation schedule to determine if a 12-hour day is
practiced.
    One commenter writes that the Coast Guard's definition of
``coastwise voyage'' is unclear. The commenter asks if a vessel with
such an endorsement would be permitted to attend a stacked MODU, or a
MODU that is moving between locations on the U.S. Outer Continental
Shelf, which is not engaged in Oil and Gas activities and is not
considered to be a ``port or place in the United States'' for the
purposes of Customs laws.
    Such a vessel would be considered to be on a coastwise voyage if
the vessel, prior to attending the MODU, departed from, and returns to,
a port in the United States or its possessions.
    Twenty-one commenters remark that the definition of ``chief mate''
describes precisely the role and responsibility of a mate on a vessel
that is permitted to work a two-watch system, yet the person serving in
that position may not be required to hold an endorsement as chief mate.
The commenters feel any requirement for service as chief mate will be
impossible to meet on vessels that have no manning requirement for a
chief mate. The commenters recommend that the phrase ``and who holds a
valid officer endorsement as chief mate'' be deleted.
    The Coast Guard agrees with the proposal and has made this
revision. However, if a mariner, serving as a chief mate onboard a
vessel that is not required to have a chief mate, wants sea service
credit, he or she must provide proper documentation.
    One commenter writes that the definition of ``horsepower'' should
be clarified.
    The Coast Guard agrees and has revised the definition to read:
``Horsepower or HP means, for the purpose of this subchapter, the total
maximum continuous shaft horsepower of all of the vessel's main
propulsion machinery as determined by the manufacturer. This term is
used when describing a vessel's propulsion power and also when placing
limitations on an engineer officer license or endorsement. One
horsepower equals 0.75 kW.''
    Six commenters interpret the definition of ``first assistant
engineer'' as requiring the second in charge of the engine department
to hold a first assistant engineer endorsement, thereby creating a de-
facto manning requirement that does not fit smaller vessels.
    The Coast Guard agrees and has revised the definition to say:
``First assistant engineer means the engineer officer next in rank to
the chief engineer and upon whom the responsibility for the mechanical
propulsion and the operation of maintenance of the mechanical and
electrical installation of the vessel will fall in the event of the
incapacity of the chief engineer.''
    Three commenters state that the term ``near-coastal'' is defined as
waters off the U.S. not more than 200 miles offshore, but the
definition of ``international voyage'' includes the words,
``territories of the U.S.'' The commenters feel it would be useful to
have a better description of what the waters of the U.S. are, and
whether they include Puerto Rico, Guam, Saipan, and the U.S. Virgin
Islands for the purposes of defining routes on a credential.
    The Coast Guard recognizes that these two definitions, which were
included in the NPRM, have caused confusion; therefore, we have decided
to retain in the SNPRM only a definition for near coastal voyages. The
definition has been clarified to preserve the intent of Regulation I/5
of the STCW Convention, which states that individual governments may
establish their own near-coastal provisions. Near-coastal means ocean
waters not more than 200 miles offshore from the U.S. and its
territories.
    Four commenters comment that the definition of ``OICEW'' includes
DDE and defines it as ``operational level,'' but the wording of Sec.
15.915(a)(2) gives the designated duty engineer (DDE) authority as
chief on certain seagoing vessels. Moreover, the commenters remark that
the definition of ``DDE'' says they may serve as the sole engineer,
which implies authority as a chief engineer. The commenters assert that
the definitions need to be revised to make them consistent with the
other provisions of Sec.  15.915. The commenters suggest that we
provide a different endorsement wording for DDE credentials that carry
chief engineer authority on seagoing vessels, such as ``chief engineer
on vessels of not more than 500 GRT.''
    The Coast Guard concurs with the comments. The STCW officer
endorsement provisions in this SNPRM take the commenters' views into
consideration and clearly state for which STCW endorsements the DDE is
eligible. It also notes that DDE endorsements will be limited to 500
GRT in addition to a particular horsepower limitation.
    One commenter states that the definition of ``second engineer
officer'' is an STCW term equivalent to the U.S. endorsement as first
assistant and that the Coast Guard should make that clear.
    This SNPRM contains definitions for both domestic first assistant
engineer endorsement and the STCW second engineer officer endorsement.
Although they both belong to different endorsement schemes, it can be
readily seen that they are roughly equivalent in their respective
systems.
    Two commenters recommend amending the definition of ``seagoing
service'' to be aligned with the intent of the STCW Convention and
therefore less restrictive than current Coast Guard interpretation.
Seagoing service can include all service aboard appropriate vessels,
whether beyond the boundary line or not, particularly for those vessels
that do not operate exclusively on inland waters or sheltered waters.
    The Coast Guard agrees and has adopted the STCW definition of
seagoing service.
    One commenter says sea service should be defined in Sec.  10.107 in
such a way that BST renewals would not require 1 year of seagoing
service during the last 5 years.
    The Coast Guard disagrees. As mandated by the 2010 amendments to
the STCW Convention and Code, the Coast Guard will not only require 1
year of seagoing service, but it will also require the applicant to
provide evidence of meeting the standard of competence for those parts
of BST that cannot be safely or reasonably

completed onboard a vessel during the 12 months of seagoing service.
    Four commenters state there is no sound reason to limit qualifying
service for STCW endorsements to service exclusively gained beyond the
boundary line or to limit qualifying service based upon geographic
location.
    The Coast Guard agrees, and the proposed definition for ``seagoing
service'' in this SNPRM would accept service on the Great Lakes and
inland waters.
    One commenter suggests that we amend the definition of ``designated
duty engineer'' (DDE) to recognize the typical manning of towing vessel
engine rooms because a great majority of engine rooms on towing vessels
are automated, but not to specific Coast Guard or ABS standards for
``unattended engine'' rooms. The commenter suggests that the Coast
Guard either modify the definition of DDE to explicitly allow service
on towing vessels or provide guidance on what constitutes a
``periodically unattended engine room'' that is specific to the
operations and characteristics of towing vessels.
    The definition of ``DDE'' would allow the engineer to sail on
towing vessels under current regulations for uninspected vessels. The
term ``periodically unattended'' is not meant to be an official term
designating Coast Guard or American Bureau of Shipping (ABS)
compliance, but a general expression of a machinery space where
constant conventional watches are not stood.
    Ten commenters disagree with the definition of ``domestic voyage''
and, when coupled with NVIC 7-00, believe it would exclude U.S. flag
workboats from operating outside U.S. waters since most crewmember
credentials are for near-coastal or near-coastal domestic voyages.
    The definition provided in the NPRM for ``domestic voyage''
represents a universally accepted method of defining domestic voyages.
Regulation I/3 of the STCW Convention provides that each Administration
sets its own near coastal limits, and allows for the use of near-
coastal endorsements in other Administrations' waters provided those
Administrations determine that the near-coastal endorsements are
equivalent to their own.
    Eight commenters expressed belief that the definition of
``international voyage,'' when coupled with NVIC 7-00, would exclude
workboats from operating outside U.S. waters since most workboat
mariner credentials are for near-coastal or near-coastal, domestic
routes.
    The definition of ``international voyage'' has been removed. The
near-coastal domestic restriction on credentials is intended for use in
waters over which the United States has authority. While a near-coastal
STCW endorsement does not preclude its use in another Administration's
near-coastal waters, that endorsement is limited to the near-coastal
waters as determined and accepted by the local administration.
    One commenter says the Coast Guard needs to add a definition for
``Great Lakes voyage,'' and without this definition, this type of
voyage may be considered an international voyage and could impose
additional crew requirements when making stops in Canada.
    The Coast Guard disagrees with the comment. It is unnecessary to
define a Great Lakes voyage, as this is already a route established on
credentials.
    Two commenters suggest removing the definition of ``competent
person'' from Sec.  10.107 and place the term within the applicable
sections in Part 13.
    The Coast Guard agrees and has made this change.
    One commenter states the definition of ``tankship'' is confusing
and incomplete and recommends adding to the end of the proposed
definition, ``excluding an Offshore Supply Vessel as defined in 46
U.S.C. 2101.''
    The Coast Guard disagrees. This is an existing definition. This
definition only applies for the credentialing of seafarers and is not
applicable to vessels.
    Two commenters disagree with the inclusion of ``those waters
specified in 33 CFR 89.25'' in the definition of ``Western rivers.''
    The Coast Guard has reformatted this definition to include a
numbering system to the different sections of the Western rivers. The
reference to 33 CFR 89.25, as well as the remainder of the definition
remains unchanged from existing text.
    One commenter asks the Coast Guard to include a definition for the
term ``barge.''
    The Coast Guard agrees, and has included a definition in Sec.
10.107.
    One commenter asks that the definition of ``disabled vessel'' be
modified to add the following: ``[t]his includes, but is not limited
to, a vessel that needs support or aid from another vessel (or vessels)
to achieve completion of a maneuver or a portion of a transit safely,
or when vessel safety is at risk such as mechanical difficulty, weather
conditions, port/waterway congestion, or vessel maneuvering
constraints.''
    The Coast Guard agrees and has amended the definition of ``disabled
vessel'' to include the commenter's suggestion.
    One commenter asks that the definitions of ``on location'' and
``underway'' be revised to consider the advent of MODU's dynamic
positioning capability. Specifically, they recommend the following
definition for ``on location'': ``On location means that a mobile
offshore drilling unit is bottom bearing, moored with anchors placed in
the drilling configuration, or, when utilizing dynamic positioning, is
maintaining station at the drilling location.'' For ``underway,'' the
commenter recommends the following: ``Underway means that a vessel is
not at anchor, made fast to the shore, or aground. When referring to a
mobile offshore drilling unit (MODU), underway means that the MODU is
not bottom bearing, moored with anchors placed in the drilling
configuration, or in laid-up status. It includes those periods of time
during which a MODU is deploying or recovering its mooring system or
when it is utilizing its dynamic positioning system.''
    The Coast Guard disagrees that we can or should change these
definitions. The International Regulations for Prevention of Collisions
at Sea (COLREGS) and the Inland Navigation Rules define ``underway'' as
``not at anchor, or made fast to the shore, or aground.'' The COLREGS
are incorporated in Chapter 30 of Title 33 of the U.S. Code and
implemented via 33 CFR part 81. The Inland Navigation Rules are
incorporated in Chapter 34 of Title 33 of the U.S. Code and implemented
via 33 CFR part 83. A vessel using dynamic positioning to drill or
conduct production operations would be considered ``underway'' under
those rules. Even if we could alter these definitions, doing so would
be beyond the scope of this rulemaking project.
    Two commenters assert that the definitions for ``dual mode ITB,''
``ITB,'' and ``push mode ITB'' should reflect current industry
practices and include reference to Articulated Tug Barge units (ATBs).
The commenter recommends that sea time on ATBs be credited based upon
the combined tonnage of the tug and barge unit when connected through
articulated means.
    The Coast Guard agrees in part and has added a definition for ATB:
Articulated Tug Barge or ATB means any tug-barge combination which
through the use of an articulated or ``hinged'' connection system
between the tug and barge allows movement in one axis, or plane in the
critical area of fore and aft pitch. Definitions for the other
configurations remain unchanged from the NPRM. Furthermore the Coast

Guard amended the service requirements to provide credit for service on
ATBs.

Implementation of the Training Requirements and Grandfathering
Provisions

    Forty-four commenters express concern about the time it will take
to implement the training requirements in the NPRM.
    The Coast Guard recognizes the potential problems associated with
the time it will take to implement the training requirements and has
included a 5-year transitional period for the implementation of the
requirements. This SNPRM provides transitional and grandfathering
provisions consistent with the 2010 amendments to the STCW Convention.
The 2010 amendments to STCW come into force on January 1, 2012.
However, STCW Regulation I/15 on transitional provisions, allows
requirements to come into effect over a 5-year period in order to avoid
disruption to the maritime industry. STCW Regulation I/15 also provides
that a Party may continue, until January 1, 2017, to issue certificates
(in the U.S., this would be the MMC) in accordance with the
credentialing rules it has in place before the 2010 amendments come
into force (January 1, 2012) only with respect to seafarers who begin
their sea service or their approved maritime training before July 1,
2013. Candidates who begin their sea service or their approved maritime
training on or after July 1, 2013 will be subject to the full
application of the revised STCW requirements. The Coast Guard has
drafted this SNPRM to allow for this phase-in process. These provisions
require any seafarer who holds an STCW endorsement prior to January 1,
2012, to provide evidence of meeting the appropriate standard of
competence for the applicable STCW endorsement by January 1, 2017.
    Domestic requirements provided in this proposed rule will be
transitioned during a 5-year period (after the effective date of the
final rule) to coincide with the renewal of existing domestic
endorsements. Individuals seeking an original endorsement or raise of
grade during this period, and who begin training or service before
January 1, 2012, need only meet the requirements in place before that
date. Those individuals who start training or service on or after
January 1, 2012, must meet all provisions described in the final rule.

Separation of STCW and Domestic Endorsements

    Thirty commenters express the feeling that, in order to remove
confusion, the Coast Guard needs to separate the domestic standards
from the STCW standards.
    The Coast Guard agrees and, in this proposed rulemaking, has
clearly separated the two schemes for the STCW and domestic
endorsements. For STCW endorsements, this proposed rulemaking
incorporates the sea service and training requirements from the STCW
Convention and Code to ensure consistency and clarity. In addition, the
Coast Guard has provided entry paths from each domestic endorsement to
the equivalent STCW endorsement.

Methods for Demonstrating Competence

    Sixty-four commenters object to the Coast Guard requiring
formalized training as the sole method of proving competency in order
to obtain an STCW endorsement.
    The Coast Guard agrees. This SNPRM proposes to allow different
methods for demonstrating competence as permitted by the STCW and
appropriate to each individual competency. This will allow the
preservation of a ``hawsepipe'' program, which allows the use of
practical experience to demonstrate competence, and foster career paths
that were not provided for in the previous NPRM.
    One commenter notes many mariners may not obtain their seagoing
experience in an organized progressive sequence, such as that provided
by maritime academies. By not allowing sea time from prior service to
be credited toward upgrades or endorsements, the Coast Guard prevents
``hawsepipe'' mariners from using their considerable and valuable
experience to progress in their careers.
    The Coast Guard recognizes the benefits of a ``hawsepipe'' process
for the creation of licensed mariners. This SNPRM provides multiple
methods of demonstrating competence, which should ensure the continued
existence of this process.

Creditable Service on Great Lakes and Inland Waters

    Ten commenters request that the Coast Guard grant day-for-day
credit for applicants providing service on Great Lakes and inland
waters. The commenters state that a large portion of the skills and
assessments which STCW requires for its endorsements overlaps with the
skills and techniques these officers are currently using as deck
officers on the Great Lakes and inland waters.
    The Coast Guard agrees and in this SNPRM proposes to grant sea
service on other than ocean waters for STCW endorsements as follows:
Those serving on Great Lakes waters will receive day-for-day credit;
and those serving on inland waters will receive 1 day of ocean service
credit for every 2 days of service for up to 50 percent of the total
service. Given the wide variety of ship operations and career patterns
in United States waters, and the movement of personnel from one segment
of industry to another, we have found it appropriate to take into
account the interchangeability or transferability of skills and
experience when candidates apply for a credential. The service from
experience obtained in the Great Lakes most closely resembles the
knowledge and skill which are required for operating a seagoing ship.
Service in inland waters does not always resemble operating a seagoing
ship. However, the Coast Guard recognizes that many of the inland
navigable waters are of such length and/or breadth that they have the
characteristics of ocean or near coastal waters.

Creditable Service for Sailing School Vessels

    Ten commenters recommend that the Coast Guard grant one and one-
half days sea service credit for every day served on sailing school
vessels. The commenter recommends recognizing the special operations of
sailing school vessels in the practice and training of seamanship.
    As part of an approved program, the Coast Guard may grant
additional credit for service on vessels if that program is shown to
exceed the experience normally received during the same number of days
on a commercial vessel that is not part of a program and merits such
credit. The Coast Guard will not grant this credit outside of an
approved program.

Seagoing Service

    One commenter writes that the endorsement for 200 GRT/500 GT near-
coastal mate (for international voyages) will require 3 years of sea
time for an original issue, which the commenter notes is three times
longer than the current requirement. The commenter feels the Coast
Guard needs to establish an appropriate level of training for small
vessels that is appropriate for the duty on these vessels. The
commenter suggests the current 1-year sea service requirement should be
retained.
    The Coast Guard agrees with the comment and has amended Sec.
11.321. Seafarers holding a domestic endorsement as mate near coastal
of less

than 200 GRT/500 GT may qualify for an STCW endorsement as OICNW of
less than 200 GRT/500 GT with 6 months of sea service under the
authority of the domestic endorsement. This provision is consistent
with Regulation II/3, paragraph 4 of the STCW Convention.
    Three commenters note that proposed Sec.  11.430(e) requires
applicants for officer endorsements with a tonnage limit over 200 GRT/
500 GT to have qualification as an able seaman. In light of the fact
that many applicants will have qualifying service on vessels not
required by law to carry able seamen, the commenters believe this
provision serves as either a barrier to entry or an unnecessary step
and recommend dropping it as a prerequisite.
    The Coast Guard has removed the requirement to qualify as able
seaman from the requirements to obtain this domestic endorsement.
    One commenter opposes not allowing service as a rating to count
toward a management-level certificate. The commenter feels this
unfairly penalizes mariners who have had to sail as a rating rather
than as an officer because of current economic conditions.
    This SNPRM continues to accept service as a rating towards renewal
of a management-level endorsement. However, it would not be appropriate
to allow rating or unlicensed service to be creditable towards an
upgrade to a management-level endorsement. The STCW requirements for
management-level endorsements specify the minimum amount of service to
be accrued while serving under the authority of an operational level
credential. For example, to qualify for a master and chief mate on
vessels of 3,000 GT or more (Regulation II/2), it requires that the
candidate meets the OICNW requirements and have 12 months approved
seagoing service in that capacity.

Tonnage Limitations and Qualifying Service

    Eighty-three commenters suggest the Coast Guard lower the minimum
vessel tonnage threshold for qualifying experience for STCW
endorsements.
    The Coast Guard is adopting the STCW language for seagoing service,
which allows us to accept service appropriate to the credential sought,
regardless of the tonnage. The domestic officer endorsement
requirements will not be changed.
    Twenty-two commenters suggest expanding the table of tonnage
equivalents to assist in determining qualifying service. The commenters
believe this will permit reasonable benefit for mariners serving aboard
limited tonnage seagoing vessels who are seeking qualified seagoing
service relevant to the issues of certification and qualification for
STCW endorsements.
    As mentioned above, the Coast Guard is adopting the STCW language
for seagoing service, which allows us to accept service appropriate to
the credential sought, regardless of the tonnage. In addition, the
Coast Guard has removed the tonnage equivalency table because of its
potential to generate confusion.
    One commenter states that the proposed rulemaking would require
changes to the United States Code (U.S.C.), particularly to 46 U.S.C.
subtitle II, part J, chapter 143 on ``Convention Measurement.'' Chapter
143 implements the provisions of the International Convention on
Tonnage Measurement of Ships.
    The NPRM and the current SNPRM do not alter the underlying law
affecting how tonnage is measured. The Coast Guard has also removed the
tonnage equivalency table. It should be noted that the equivalent
measurements are now being retained only for STCW endorsements at the
200 GRT/500 GT and 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT levels.
    Two commenters raise concerns regarding placement of tonnage
limitations on unlimited tonnage licenses when the applicants fail to
provide the service required within the regulations.
    The Coast Guard notes that this has existed for many years and that
the NPRM did not propose to change this provision. Current regulations
provide, and we will retain authority, for the Coast Guard to place
limitations on domestic officer endorsements when an applicant does not
present sufficient evidence of service on vessels over 1,600 GRT/3,000
GT.
    Two commenters write that master or mate on vessels of less than
1,600 GRT/3,000 GT upon oceans appears to be the only lower-level
option for an ocean-endorsed license for international voyages. The
commenters think this severely discriminates against mariners and
vessels of the smaller tonnages who wish to sail upon ocean routes to
foreign destinations.
    The Coast Guard agrees and will retain a credentialing regime that
will provide for persons serving on vessels of smaller tonnage on ocean
routes.

Military Sea Service

    Three commenters remark that, while the military, especially the
Navy, is a good source of experienced members with a good work ethic,
individuals that cross over from the military should be deemed
proficient with some form of testing to keep the standards of the U.S.
merchant marine elevated.
    The Coast Guard agrees and has added provisions for military
members with qualifying sea service to obtain a domestic or STCW
endorsement at either the operational or management level after
satisfactory completion of the appropriate training and assessments, in
accordance with the STCW Code. The provisions for ``sea service as a
member of the armed forces'' were moved to proposed Sec.  10.232.
    One commenter asks if a military petty officer who qualified as
engineering officer of the watch can qualify for an endorsement as QMED
oiler and/or RFPEW. However, see our response above regarding new
provisions for military members.
    In evaluating a mariner's qualifications, we consider the unique
qualifications of the applicant. As such, we are unable to provide a
definitive response to this situation based on the information
provided.

Foreign Sea Service

    Four commenters request that the Coast Guard accept service on
foreign flag vessels to establish recency for license or endorsement
renewals.
    The Coast Guard agrees and has added new Sec.  10.232 to address
this topic and to accept this type of sea service for original,
renewals, and raise-in-grade of endorsements.

International Voyages

    One commenter notes that the NPRM adds additional endorsements for
officers on seagoing ships (Medical PIC/Medical first-aid provider).
The commenter asks if these endorsements are required only when
operating on international voyages or if it will include domestic and
Great Lakes voyages if the vessel is considered a seagoing vessel by
definition and allowed to proceed beyond the boundary line on its
Certificate of Inspection.
    The medical first-aid provider endorsement and person in charge of
medical care endorsement are STCW endorsements available to both
officer and ratings positions. Except as provided in the requirements
for OICNW and OICEW, neither of these endorsements is mandatory unless
the person has been designated by his or her employer to act in one of
those capacities.

Domestic Near-Coastal Voyages

    Three commenters state that NPRM Sec.  11.401(a)(10) says that 200
GRT masters/mates on near-coastal routes

must meet Regulation II/3 of the STCW Convention, but that the
footnotes (as well as the first sentence) appear to exempt those
vessels.
    Proposed Sec.  11.301(j) provides that masters, mates, or engineers
endorsed for service on seagoing vessels of less than 200 GRT/500 GT
(other than passenger vessels subject to subchapter H of this chapter)
are entitled to hold an STCW endorsement corresponding to the service
or other limitations of the license or officer endorsements on the MMC.
These vessels are not subject to further obligation under the STCW
because of their special operating conditions as small vessels engaged
in domestic, near-coastal voyages.
    Five commenters state that there are a number of exceptions and
exemptions that have been issued by local Captains of the Port (COTP)
for vessels on short international voyages, allowing voyages to
Canadian, Bahamian, British Virgin, and Mexican waters, and assert that
the Coast Guard should determine how these exemptions will be affected
by these changes.
    The Coast Guard recognizes the variances that were issued by the
local COTPs to address individual operational needs. These variances
have been incorporated into the regulations to the extent possible
consistent with the STCW Convention. Therefore, exemptions issued by
the OCMI/COTP will no longer be valid. In the future, any additional
variances will need to be consistent with the regulations found in
subchapter B of 46 CFR.
    Four commenters recommend that proposed Sec.  11.463(d) make clear
that the authority to make a near-coastal international voyage be
included in the endorsements in Sec. Sec.  11.423 and 11.424, as well
as by a 500 GRT master/mate credential issued based on service obtained
prior to the effective date.
    46 CFR 11.301(j) (of the SNPRM) allows for an STCW and officer
endorsement as master or mate of self-propelled seagoing vessels of
less than 200 GRT/500 GT limited to near-coastal waters, including
masters and mates of towing vessels, to be valid for service on self-
propelled, seagoing vessels engaged on international voyages, and on
passenger vessels of 100 GRT/250 GT or more on domestic, near-coastal
voyages.
    One commenter states the small passenger vessel exemption in the
existing text of Sec.  15.105 should not change.
    We have kept the exemption for small vessels and have retained the
provisions restricting such exemptions to waters over which the U.S.
has jurisdiction in 46 CFR 15.105. One commenter requests that the
Coast Guard add the St. Lawrence Seaway and the St. Lawrence River to
the list of waters exempted in Sec.  11.202(d)(4).
    These waters are not seaward of the boundary line. Therefore, STCW
is not applicable to them and no exemption is needed.
    One commenter states that limiting OUPVs to domestic voyages has a
considerable impact with no return on the cost and that a near-coastal
OUPV can travel 100 miles out to sea. The commenter notes that this
distance is well into the Bahamian waters from the U.S. and that from
the Virgin Islands, a mariner can easily reach a number of other
countries.
    The Coast Guard notes that the STCW Convention does not allow
mariners with OUPV endorsements to serve on vessels on international
voyages.

Deck Officer Endorsements

    Seventy-three commenters disagree with the Coast Guard's stated
intention to stop issuing original domestic endorsements for deck
officers serving on vessels of not more than 500 GRT/1,200 GT. The
commenters state that requiring applicants to comply with the
requirements to obtain an endorsement for service on vessels of more
than 1,600 GRT/3,000 GT was excessive for the smaller vessels.
    The Coast Guard agrees and will continue to issue original
endorsements for deck officers serving on vessels of not more than 500
GRT. However, mariners need to be aware that STCW requirements for all
deck officers serving on vessels of 200 GRT/500 GT or more are the
same; that is, there are no additional tonnage breakpoints. To address
the breakpoint differences between the STCW endorsements and the
domestic endorsements, the Coast Guard has included entry paths (both
operational and management) for deck officers serving on vessels of not
more than 500 GRT into the STCW endorsements for officers serving on
vessels of 1,600 GRT/3000 GT.
    Several of these commenters also express concern that the Coast
Guard intends to do away with the endorsement for officers serving on
vessels of not more than 200 GRT/500 GT.
    The Coast Guard has not proposed the elimination of this
endorsement, and it will be retained.
    Seventeen commenters object to the proposed provisions of Sec.
11.404, which would allow third mates with 36 months of service on
self-propelled seagoing vessels to advance directly to master after
completing the training, education, and assessment requirements.
    This path was intended for progression under the STCW Convention;
that is, when progressing from OICNW to master on seagoing ships. Since
the Coast Guard's goal is to harmonize its requirements for mariners
serving on seagoing ships with the STCW requirements and not impose
stricter requirements on U.S. mariners, this proposed method of