SAFE OPERATIONS AND EQUIPMENT STANDARDS.

SEC. 608. SAFE OPERATIONS AND EQUIPMENT STANDARDS.(a) In General.—Chapter 21 of title 46, United States Code, is further amended by adding at the end the following new sections:124 STAT. 2968 “§ 2117. Termination for unsafe operation “An individual authorized to enforce this title—“(1) may remove a certificate required by this title from a vessel that is operating in a condition that does not comply with the provisions of the certificate;“(2) may order the individual in charge of a vessel that is operating that does not have on board the certificate required by this title to return the vessel to a mooring and to remain there until the vessel is in compliance with this title; and“(3) may direct the individual in charge of a vessel to which this title applies to immediately take reasonable steps necessary for the safety of individuals on board the vessel if the official observes the vessel being operated in an unsafe condition that the official believes creates an especially hazardous condition, including ordering the individual in charge to return the vessel to a mooring and to remain there until the situation creating the hazard is corrected or ended. “§ 2118. Establishment of equipment standards“(a) In establishing standards for approved equipment required on vessels subject to part B of this title, the Secretary shall establish standards that are—“(1) based on performance using the best available technology that is economically achievable; and“(2) operationally practical.“(b) Using the standards established under subsection (a), the Secretary may also certify lifesaving equipment that is not required to be carried on vessels subject to part B of this title to ensure that such equipment is suitable for its intended purpose.“(c) At least once every 10 years the Secretary shall review and revise the standards established under subsection (a) to ensure that the standards meet the requirements of this section.” .(b) Clerical Amendment.—The table of sections at the beginning of such chapter is further amended by adding at the end the following: “2117. Termination for unsafe operation. “2118. Establishment of equipment standards.”.