§ 3331. Fleet adjustment program

(a) In general

The Secretary of Commerce (hereinafter referred to in this subchapter as the “Secretary”), upon approval of a program submitted pursuant to section 3333 of this title, is authorized to distribute Federal funds to the State of Washington (hereinafter in this subchapter referred to as the “State”), subject to the standards, conditions, and restrictions set forth in this subchapter, for the purchase of commercial fishing and charter vessels (including the associated fishing gear) and licenses by the State in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter. The Federal share payable under this subchapter shall not exceed 75 percent of the total cost of the program.

(b) Legal title

Title to any vessel or other personal property purchased under a State program approved by the Secretary in accordance with the provisions of this subchapter shall vest upon purchase in the State. If the State sells such vessels or other property, title may pass in accordance with such sale.

(Pub. L. 96–561, title I, § 130, Dec. 22, 1980, 94 Stat. 3283.)