Feds Nix Speed Limit to Protect Right Whales

A right whale breaches in waters off New England. Photo/NOAA

The U.S. Department of Commerce and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) are withdrawing a proposed rule that would have set speed limits for vessels between 35 and 65 feet in length to reduce the likelihood of collisions with endangered North Atlantic right whales (vessels over 65 feet have been subject to similar restrictions since 2008).

NMFS issued the following explanation for the withdrawal: “Despite its best efforts, NMFS does not have sufficient time to finalize this regulation in this Administration due to the scope and volume of public comments. NMFS hereby withdraws the August 2022 proposed rule and terminates this rulemaking proceeding. NMFS’ existing North Atlantic right whale vessel speed regulations (50 CFR 224.105) remain in effect.”

The proposed ruling would have imposed speed restrictions on smaller vessels, including recreational boats, and also enlarged the areas and timing of seasonal speed zones for all vessels over 35 feet, and created temporary speed zones when right whales were known to be present. Ferry service and commercial fishing operations were also expected to be impacted by the new rule.