The U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) has assumed oversight of deepwater port licensing from the U.S. Coast Guard in a move aimed at streamlining environmental reviews, accelerating approvals, and supporting domestic energy development. Under the change, MarAd will take responsibility for National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA) and environmental compliance reviews, while the Coast Guard will continue to oversee safety, design, construction, and operational aspects of deepwater port facilities as a cooperating agency. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and MarAd Administrator Stephen Carmel said the shift advances President Trump’s energy strategy by reducing regulatory bottlenecks, encouraging private investment, and helping lower energy costs. The transition aligns with the Deepwater Port Act of 1974, which governs licensing for offshore oil and natural gas ports beyond U.S. territorial waters and requires applicants to minimize environmental impacts and submit detailed lifecycle plans. Since 1975, 31 deepwater port license applications have been filed, reflecting growing interest in offshore energy infrastructure.