NEW BEDFORD, Mass — September 7, 2012 — The voluntary safety exam conducted by the Coast Guard on commercial fishing vessels will become mandatory Oct. 16 for all vessels operating beyond 3 miles from shore.
The requirement includes recreational vessels operating with a commercial permit to sell their catch, according to a press release issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's fisheries service.
According to the release, current inspection decals remain valid until the expiration date. All other vessels are advised to schedule an exam in the near future. B
Boats operating from ports between Provincetown and Watch Hill, R.I., should contact safety examiner Kevin Coyle at 508-991-6812.
Read the full story in the New Bedford Standard Times