What is one action a Coast Guard officer can perform under 14 USC 522 (a)?

Under 14 USC 522(a), Coast Guard officers are granted the authority to board vessels and inspect documents. This statutory provision empowers officers to carry out inspections to ensure compliance with various regulations pertaining to vessel safety, environmental protection, and other maritime laws. Boarding vessels allows the officers to examine not only the documentation of the vessel but also to ensure that the vessel is operating within the bounds of the law.

This action is crucial for maintaining maritime security and safety, as it allows officers to take immediate action if violations are observed, including enforcing applicable laws and regulations. The ability to inspect documents ensures that vessels are properly registered and that crew members have the necessary certifications and licenses, thereby safeguarding the waters and the maritime industry as a whole.