RBOC and our national advocacy partner BoatU.S.are emphasizing the original objective of automatic identification systems [AIS] to enhance maritime security following 9/11 as discussions are held regarding the potential expansion of the mandate to recreational vessels.
The Los Angeles \ Long Beach Harbor Safety Committee may be considering the placement of a recommendation in Chapter 10 of the Harbor Safety Plan that small commercial vessels and pleasure vessels be equipped with an AIS.
It is our understanding that the proposal is for AIS to be recommended rather than mandated in the Harbor Safety Plan.
Even so, it is important to acknowledge that the mandate for commercial vessels to have an AIS was established to enhance maritime security following 9/11.
Expansion of the existing mandate to recreational vessels raises a number of significant public policy issues including privacy considerations as well as cost and operational challenges. These warrant an early and broad conversation with the recreational boating community.