HOUSE PASSES COAST GUARD PERSONNEL, MARITIME SAFETY ACT

HOUSE PASSES COAST GUARD PERSONNEL, MARITIME SAFETY ACT

HOUSE PASSES COAST GUARD PERSONNEL, MARITIME SAFETY ACT

   The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed legislation that supporters say will improve maritime safety and environmental programs.

      The bill raises the maximum civil penalty for the negligent operation of recreational craft from $1,000 to $5,000 and the maximum penalty for the negligent operation of a commercial vessel from $1,000 to $25,000.

   The legislation also amends the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 to allow the Coast Guard to borrow up to $100 million from the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund for additional emergency oil spill cleanup.

      The bill also provides for the accelerated promotion of outstanding Coast Guard officers.