Public Law 74–697

That no vessel, regardless of size or rig, excepting public vessels of the United States, shall transport on the navigable waters of the United States, from point to point in the continental United States, any inflammable, explosive, or like dangerous cargo or anchor in such waters or go into drydock for repairs while having on board such dangerous

Inspection of vessels engaged in.

cargo, until such vessel has been inspected by the board of local inspectors to determine that such cargo may be carried on such vessel with safety, and a permit issued to her for the presence on board of such cargo, which permit shall be framed under glass and posted in a conspicuous part of the vessel.

Rules, etc., to be promulgated.

The Secretary of Commerce is authorized and directed to promulgate rules and regulations concerning construction, the appliances, and apparatus for stowage, of vessels used in the transportation or inflammable, explosive, or like dangerous cargo on said vessels in order to preserve life and property while in operation or at anchor. The local board of inspectors shall not issue a permit to any vessel until it finds that said vessel is in substantial compliance with the rules and regulations promulgated by the Secretary of Commerce:

Proviso.

Exemptions.

Provided, That this Act shall not apply to a vessel covered by an unexpired certificate of inspection duly issued in accordance with law by the local inspectors of the Bureau of Marine Inspection and Navigation or, if a foreign vessel, by an unexpired certificate of inspection issued under the authority of its own government and recognized under law or treaty by the Government of the United States.

Sec. 2.

A penalty of not to exceed $500 may be imposed for each

Penalty for violation.

violation of any of the provisions of this Act or of any of the rules and regulations promulgated under the authority of this Act. The vessel shall be liable for the said penalty and may be seized and proceeded against, by way of libel, in the District Court of the United States for any district within which such vessel may be found.

Sec. 3.

This Act shall become effective sixty days after its enactment.

Effective date.