Comments Due on Maritime Agreements

Dec. 1, 2003
A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Nov. 24, 2003 describes proposed rule changes "intended to reduce the

A Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued by the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Nov. 24, 2003 describes proposed rule changes "intended to reduce the overall burden and cost to ocean common carriers while ensuring that the Commission receives the information necessary to conduct effective oversight," according to FMC Chairman Steven Blust.

The National Industrial Transportation League (NITL) reported the proposal would update and clarify regulations governing the content of agreements subject to the 1984 Shipping Act. These include language designed to ensure the FMC receives complete agreements. It would also clarify definitions of transshipment agreements and non-exclusive transshipment agreements.

The 259-page document also delves into areas of antitrust immunity and carriers' filings of agreement minutes and FMC access to materials used or discussed in those meetings. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is available on the FMC Web page www.fmc.gov