Coast Guard Prepares for July 1, 2004 Deadline for New Maritime Security Measures
The Coast Guard has issued a press release stating that it is preparing for the July 1, 2004 deadline to implement the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA), which require ports and vessels to control access, monitor activity, and screen personnel, baggage, cargo, and vehicles.
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According to the Coast Guard, some of the key milestones leading up to the July 1, 2004 deadline include:
Security plans received from 99% of required U.S. vessels and facilities;
Alternative Security Programs used by two thirds of the vessels that submitted plans;
Initial reviews completed on most facility and vessel plans; and
Area Maritime Security Committees established in all U.S. port areas.
International compliance. The Coast Guard states that it is also preparing to verify international compliance with the new requirements by:
Boarding every vessel, at sea or at the dock, on its first visit to a U.S. port on or after July 1, 2004;
Taking additional security precautions or denying entry into U.S. waters for non-compliant vessels on a case-by-case basis;
Tracking vessels coming from non-compliant ports. These vessels may be subject to delays until their security status can be verified through a Coast Guard boarding;
Visiting countries to evaluate antiterrorism measures in their ports with the host nation; and
Exchanging information with and providing training to foreign countries to assist with interpretation and implementation of the international code.
(See ITT's Online Archives or 01/22/04 news, 04012205, for BP summary of the International Maritime Organization's (IMO's) circular urging early compliance with the new maritime security measures. See ITT's Online Archives or 03/22/04 news, 04032299 2, for the IMO's press briefing urging intensified efforts for compliance in wake of the March 11, 2004 Madrid terrorist attacks.)
Coast Guard press release (dated 04/15/04) available at https://www.piersystem.com/external/index.cfm?cid=586&fuseaction=EXTERNAL.docview&pressid=36607