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This regulatory action proposes to remove the type approval requirements for certain survival equipment that survival craft and rescue boats are required to carry on U.S.-flagged vessels. The Coast Guard has proposed that for some equipment the manufacturer self-certify that the equipment meets a consensus standard, and for other equipment that the manufacturer self-certify that the equipment meets updated regulatory requirements. The Coast Guard is considering comments on the proposed rule that would also eliminate the obsolete requirements for lifeboat equipment on sailing school vessels. Updating type approval requirements for survival craft equipment would reduce the financial and paperwork burden on equipment manufacturers, vessel owners and operators, and the Coast Guard.