Latest Update: Friday, January, 16th 2009

To clarify the circumstances during which the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency and applicable States may require permits for discharges from certain vessels, and to require the Administrator to conduct a study of discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels. 7/21/2008--Introduced. Prohibits the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), or a state with an approved National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program under the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, from requiring an NPDES permit for a covered vessel for the next two years for any discharge: (1) of effluent from properly functioning marine engines; (2) of laundry, shower, and galley sink wastes; or (3) that is incidental to the normal operation of a covered vessel. Defines "covered vessel" to mean a vessel that is less than 79 feet in length or a fishing vessel.Requires the Administrator to evaluate the impacts of such discharges,[...]

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Latest Actions
  • 07/22/2008 - For Further Action See P.L. 110-229 (S. 3298).
  • 07/22/2008 - Referred to the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment.
  • 07/22/2008 - For Further Action See S.3298.
  • 07/21/2008 - Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.