Proposed rule · 2026-04260

Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking To Amend the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Strike Reduction Rule

NMFS is considering possible deregulatory action to modify and modernize the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule. The goal of this initiative is to reduce unnecessary regulatory and economic burdens on the regulated community by replacing current seasonal speed restrictions with alternative management areas and advanced, technology-based, strike-avoidance measures that maintain or enhance conservation efficacy for the endangered North Atlantic right whale (Eubalaena glacialis).