Statutary Authorization

EXCERPTS FROM TITLE 46, UNITED STATES CODE, CHAPTER 123:
Sec. 12301. – Numbering vessels
(a) An undocumented vessel equipped with propulsion machinery of any kind
shall have a number issued by the proper issuing authority in the State in which the
vessel principally is operated.
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Sec. 12302. – Standard numbering system
(a) The Secretary shall prescribe by regulation a standard numbering system for
vessels to which this chapter applies. On application by a State, the Secretary shall
approve a State numbering system that is consistent with the standard numbering
system. In carrying out its numbering system, a State shall adopt any definitions of
relevant terms prescribed by regulations of the Secretary.
(b) A State with an approved numbering system is the issuing authority within the
meaning of this chapter. The Secretary is the issuing authority in a State in which a
State numbering system has not been approved.
(c) When a vessel is numbered in a State, it is deemed in compliance with the
numbering system of a State in which it temporarily is operated.
(d) When a vessel is removed to a new State of principal operation, the issuing
authority of that State shall recognize the validity of the number issued by the original
State for 60 days.
(e) If a State has a numbering system approved after the Secretary issues a
number, the State shall recognize the validity of the number issued by the Secretary for
one year.
(f) When the Secretary decides that a State numbering system is not being
carried out consistent with the standard numbering system or the State has changed the
system without the Secretary's approval, the Secretary may withdraw approval after
giving notice to the State, in writing, stating the reasons for the withdrawal