SNPRM commenting period ended Sept. 30th.... what's next step?

What is the next step in the process concerning the STCW revamping of our current system? I understood the commenting period closed on September 30th. Is there any thing else we will hear or see before they implement the changes? Or will it just be… SUPRISE!!! one day when we least expect it?

The comment period will most likely be extended. The most prevalent comments on the docket where requests for an extentsion, considering the timing of the release.

[QUOTE=anchorman;56105]The comment period will most likely be extended. The most prevalent comments on the docket where requests for an extension, considering the timing of the release.[/QUOTE]

The comment period was not extended. The next step is the comments will be reviewed and evaluated, and a decision made to either make no change to the proposed rule(s); make no changes to the current regs; make such changes that can be made without the need for a new proposed rule and comment period; or start over with a new proposed rule (as was done with the current proposal). If a final or interim rule is adopted, it will be published in the Federal Register and take effect 30 days after publication. While this appears short notice, the most significant proposed changes, the 2010 STCW amendments, provide for grandfathering and some will not be fully implemented until January 2017.