46 U.S.C. § 70114 — Automatic identification systems

(a) System Requirements — (1) Unless exempted, these vessels must be equipped with and run an automatic identification system (AIS) while on U.S. navigable waters, under the Secretary's regulations: (A) a self-propelled commercial vessel at least 65 feet long overall; (B) a vessel carrying more passengers-for-hire than a number the Secretary sets; (C) a towing vessel over 26 feet long with more than 600 horsepower; and (D) any other vessel the Secretary decides needs AIS for safe navigation. (2) The Secretary may: (A) exempt a specific vessel from these rules if AIS isn't needed for its safe navigation on the waters it uses; and (B) waive the rules for vessels on specific waters, if AIS isn't needed for safe navigation there. (b) Regulations — The Secretary must issue regulations to carry out subsection (a), including rules for operating and maintaining the required AIS.