Senate Commerce Committee approved a bill, S 652.
Chairman of the House Commerce Committee has promised to introduce the House version of this legislation during the first week of May.
Automated Ship Distress and Safety Systems
Notwithstanding any provision of the Communications Act of 1934 or any other provision of law or regulation, a ship documented under the laws of the United States operating in accordance with the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System provisions of the Safety of Life at Sea Convention shall not be required to be equipped with a radio telegraphy station operated by one or more radio officers or operators.