It's possible Congress was more interested in reducing the budget by acknowledging that the USCG hardly ever visits a huge amount of the inland waters. Depending on how things go, it's possible officers of passenger vessels may someday be required to obtain federal licensure again. I'm sure it would be a good point in more intensive markets for one company to advertise its captains have both certifications, especially where the state requirements are less stringent.
In the meantime, operators are probably happy with the reduced cost and hassles.
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