Magnuson-Stevens Act Provisions; General Provisions for Domestic Fisheries; Observer Health and Safety

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NMFS publishes this final rule to enhance the safety of observers and the efficiency of their deployment. The purpose of the final rule is to clarify prohibited actions regarding observers, reinforce that an observer may not be deployed nor stay aboard an unsafe vessel, clarify when a fishing vessel is inadequate for observer deployment and how an owner or operator can resolve discrepancies, clarify when the safety decal requirement applies, and provide for an alternate NMFS safety equipment examination of certain small fishing vessels. This final rule is necessary to maintain and enhance the safety and effectiveness of fisheries observers in carrying out their duties as authorized by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act (Magnuson-Stevens Act) and the fishery management plans and regulations adopted under the Magnuson-Stevens Act.