We would like to draw your attention to a new oil spill financial responsibility requirement introduced by Washington State, which adds a state-level layer on top of the existing federal COFR issued by the US Coast Guard. The new rules were adopted under Chapter 173-187 WAC in June 2024 and came into effect on 15 July 2024. The compliance deadline for vessels is 15 April 2026.
The rule applies to a broad range of vessel types — including cargo vessels, tank vessels and passenger vessels, calling at Washington State ports such as Seattle, Tacoma and Bellingham. Required levels of financial responsibility range depending on vessel type, size and oil carrying capacity. It is important to note that Washington operates under an unlimited liability principle for oil spill damages: the COFR sets a minimum, not a ceiling. This new financial requirement could mean that vessels calling at Washington State ports require additional COFR related certificates and/or proof of insurance.
We are however proud to report that after successfully completing the application process the NNPC is now an approved insurer by the Washington State Department of Insurance. This means that the financial responsibility requirement is automatically satisfied and that there will be no additional requirements for members and insureds of the NNPC sailing to Washington apart from the standard COFR and ICB that all vessels calling at the United States need.
We do ask you to check that your Certificate of Entry remains valid and that your vessel details are correctly recorded. A lapse in cover could technically result in non-compliance with Washington’s requirements. As Ecology may request your certificate without prior notice, it is important that the paperwork is always in order.
If you have any questions about your cover or certificate documentation in relation to Washington State requirements, please do not hesitate to contact our Underwriting team at underwriting@nnpc-marine.com.
