FMGA

FMGA, or the Federal Maritime and Great Lakes Act, is a United States federal law that governs maritime commerce and the Great Lakes. Enacted in 1920, it was the first comprehensive maritime law in the U.S. and has since been amended numerous times to address changes in maritime commerce and technology.

The FMGA establishes the framework for maritime commerce in the U.S., including the regulation of vessels, navigation, and safety. It also provides for the establishment of the U.S. Coast Guard, which is responsible for enforcing maritime laws and regulations.

The act includes provisions for the construction, operation, and inspection of vessels, as well as the regulation of maritime labor and safety. It also addresses issues related to maritime security, including the prevention of piracy and the protection of maritime infrastructure.

The FMGA also includes provisions for the regulation of the Great Lakes, which are a vital resource for the U.S. and Canada. The act provides for the management of the lakes, including the regulation of water levels, the prevention of pollution, and the protection of wildlife.

The FMGA is a complex and evolving body of law, and its interpretation and application can be challenging. However, it remains a critical component of the U.S. maritime legal framework, and its provisions continue to shape maritime commerce and the regulation of the Great Lakes.