H.R. 4813: Noncontiguous Disaster Shipping Act

This bill, known as the Noncontiguous Disaster Shipping Act, proposes changes to existing navigation and vessel inspection laws in the United States. Specifically, it aims to facilitate disaster relief efforts in noncontiguous areas—regions that are not physically connected to the mainland United States. These areas include Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, Hawaii, and Alaska.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The bill outlines the following key provisions:

• Waiver of Compliance: The bill allows the head of the agency responsible for navigation or vessel inspection laws to waive compliance with these laws for vessels transporting cargo to or from a noncontiguous area following a declaration of a major disaster or emergency by the President.
• Duration of Waiver:
  • The initial waiver can last up to 10 days.
  • After the initial period, the waiver may be extended for an additional period of 10 days if agreed upon by the head of the agency and the Governor of the affected noncontiguous area.
  • The total duration of all waivers and extensions related to a single disaster or emergency cannot exceed 45 days.
• Notification to Congress: The agency head must notify several congressional committees within 48 hours of issuing any waiver or extension. This ensures that Congress is kept informed about changes that affect shipping regulations during a disaster.

Purpose of the Bill

The overarching purpose of this legislation is to streamline the shipping process for disaster relief supplies to areas that are critically affected by emergencies. By temporarily suspending certain regulatory requirements, the bill aims to expedite the delivery of essential goods and services to assist in recovery efforts after a major disaster.

Impact on Noncontiguous Areas

The bill specifically targets noncontiguous areas such as:

• Puerto Rico
• The Virgin Islands
• Guam
• American Samoa
• The Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
• Hawaii
• Alaska

These regions would benefit from enhanced access to relief supplies and recovery resources following a major catastrophe.

Relevant Companies

None found