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This rulemaking will complete implementation of the statutorily mandated fire safety and avenues of egress requirements in 46 U.S.C. 3306(n) in 46 CFR subchapters K and T. The statute requires the Coast Guard to prescribe regulations for covered small passenger vessels (defined as overnight small passenger vessels or those on oceans or coastwise routes, excluding fishing vessels and ferries) with respect to fire detection, protection, and suppression systems, and avenues of egress on such vessels.  The Office of Commercial Vessel Compliance (CG-CVC) issued CG-CVC Policy Letter 23-03 Change 1 on Dec. 24, 2023, titled "COVERED SMALL PASSENGER VESSEL FIRE SAFETY INTERIM RULE IMPLEMENTATION." The policy provides clarifying guidance to Coast Guard commanders and officers, as well as the public, on how the Coast Guard is enforcing the interim rule regulations.