The SAFE Port Act, and The Small Vessel Security Strategy
Compare and contrast through a critical analysis of the following laws and strategies with an emphasis on how they enhance port maritime operations: Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002, The SAFE Port Act, and The Small Vessel Security Strategy
Sample Solution
Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA)
The MTSA was passed in the wake of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. It is a comprehensive law that sets forth security requirements for all U.S. ports and vessels. The MTSA requires ports to develop security plans, establish security zones, and conduct security assessments. It also requires vessels to have security plans and to comply with a number of security measures, such as the use of security guards and the installation of security equipment.
SAFE Port Act
The SAFE Port Act was passed in 2006. It is an amendment to the MTSA that further enhances security at U.S. ports. The SAFE Port Act requires the U.S. Coast Guard to develop a risk-based security plan for each port. It also requires the Coast Guard to conduct security assessments of all U.S.-flagged vessels.
Small Vessel Security Strategy
The Small Vessel Security Strategy was developed by the U.S. Coast Guard in 2007. It is a plan to enhance security for small vessels, which are defined as vessels less than 100 gross tons. The Small Vessel Security Strategy includes a number of recommendations, such as the development of security plans for small vessels, the installation of security equipment, and the training of small vessel operators on security procedures.
Comparison and Contrast
The MTSA, the SAFE Port Act, and the Small Vessel Security Strategy all have the goal of enhancing security at U.S. ports. However, they differ in a number of ways. The MTSA is a more comprehensive law, while the SAFE Port Act and the Small Vessel Security Strategy are more focused on specific aspects of security. The MTSA applies to all U.S. ports and vessels, while the SAFE Port Act and the Small Vessel Security Strategy apply to specific types of ports and vessels.
How they enhance port maritime operations
The MTSA, the SAFE Port Act, and the Small Vessel Security Strategy have all enhanced port maritime operations by increasing security and making ports less vulnerable to terrorist attacks. The MTSA has required ports to develop security plans and to establish security zones. The SAFE Port Act has required the Coast Guard to develop a risk-based security plan for each port and to conduct security assessments of all U.S.-flagged vessels. The Small Vessel Security Strategy has recommended a number of measures to enhance security for small vessels.
These laws and strategies have also made it more difficult for terrorists to smuggle weapons or other dangerous materials into ports. They have also made it more difficult for terrorists to attack ships or port facilities. As a result, these laws and strategies have made ports safer and more secure.
Conclusion
The MTSA, the SAFE Port Act, and the Small Vessel Security Strategy are all important laws and strategies that have enhanced port maritime operations. These laws and strategies have made ports safer and more secure, and they have made it more difficult for terrorists to attack ships or port facilities.
