47 U.S.C. § 363 — Automated ship distress and safety systems

Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter 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. This section shall take effect for each vessel^* upon a determination by the United States Coast Guard that such vessel has the equipment required to implement the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System installed and operating in good working condition.