# Vessel Monitoring Systems; Requirements for Type-Approval of Cellular Transceiver Units
> **Rule** · Final rule. · Published 2020-07-08 · Effective 2020-08-07 · 85 FR 40915
## Document
- **Document number:** 2020-14600
- **Category:** vessel-monitoring
- **Federal Register citation:** 85 FR 40915
- **Publication date:** 2020-07-08
- **Effective date:** 2020-08-07
- **NOAA docket:** Docket No. 200626-0173
## Abstract

The U.S. Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) program type-approves enhanced mobile transceiver units (EMTUs) for use in U.S. fisheries. Currently, the only approved method for transferring VMS data from a vessel to NMFS is by satellite-linked communication services. This final rule amends the existing VMS type-approval regulations to add cellular-based EMTUs (EMTU-Cs) type-approval application and testing procedures; compliance and revocation processes; and technical, service, and performance standards. This rule is necessary to allow for the use of EMTU-Cs and cellular communication service, in addition to satellite-only models, in federally managed fisheries.

## Source
- [Federal Register document](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2020/07/08/2020-14600/vessel-monitoring-systems-requirements-for-type-approval-of-cellular-transceiver-units)
---
*MORVS · CC0 1.0*