On November 5, 2026, the Maritime Administration (MARAD) announced a notice of proposed rulemaking regarding the processing of applications for deepwater port licenses. The proposed rule reflects the transfer of application processing management from the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to MARAD, as mandated by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026. Public comments on the proposal are due by January 4, 2027, according to the agency's release.
Press Release: Maritime Administration
Published November 5, 2026. Reproduced in full from the Maritime Administration.
Deepwater Port Application Processing and Licensing
Action: Notice of proposed rulemaking and request for comments.
Summary
This document proposes procedures for the processing of applications for the licensing of deepwater ports. The proposed rule reflects the transfer of deepwater port license application processing management under the Deepwater Port Act from the United States Coast Guard (USCG) to MARAD. Pursuant to the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (2026 NDAA), MARAD is the Federal lead agency for purposes of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) for all deepwater port license applications. USCG responsibility for authorities pertaining to design, construction, equipment, operation of deepwater ports, and navigational safety are not affected by the 2026 NDAA statutory changes, or this proposed rule and will continue to be administered by USCG.
Key dates
- Public comments close: January 4, 2027
Comments should be filed on or before January 4, 2027. Late comments will be considered to the extent practicable.
Full text: Federal Register document 2026-22617
