WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is issuing a supplemental proposed rule to reduce the spread of invasive species that occurs with normal operation of large marine vessels.
Following public input on EPA’s 2020 proposed rule - including meetings with states, Tribes, and other stakeholders - the agency is now issuing a Supplemental Notice to share new data and control options. This proposal will bolster the development of a final rule to stem the spread of invasive species and better protect our nation’s aquatic ecosystems.
EPA’s proposed Vessel Incidental Discharge National Standards of Performance would reduce the environmental impact of discharges, such as ballast water, that are incidental to the normal operation of commercial vessels.
The proposed standards would apply discharges to waters of the United States from:
• Commercial vessels greater than 79 feet in length
• Other non-recreational, non-Armed Forces vessels, such as research and emergency rescue vessels
• Ballast water only from small vessels (vessels less than 79 feet in length) and fishing vessels of all sizes
This notice shares new ballast water information from the Coast Guard and other regulatory options EPA is considering for the final rule for ballast tanks, hulls and associated niche areas, and graywater systems.
The agency is requesting comments on the issues identified in the supplemental notice during a 60-day public comment period. The public does not need to resubmit comments from the 2020 proposed rule, as the final rule will address comments received on both the proposed rule and the supplemental notice.
For more information on submitting comments on the proposal and upcoming virtual public meetings, see EPA’s Commercial Vessel Discharge Standards.
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