§ 1745. Reconversion of vessels for normal commercial operation; applicability of other laws to construction contracts; coastwise trade; disposition of moneys; Great Lakes trade
(a)
The Secretary is authorized to reconvert or restore for normal operation in commercial services and to convert for operation on the Great Lakes, including the Saint Lawrence River and Gulf, and their connecting waterways, including removal of national defense or war-service features, any vessel authorized to be sold or chartered under this Act [sections
1735 to
1746 of this Appendix]. The Secretary is authorized to make such replacements, alterations, or modifications with respect to any vessel authorized to be sold or chartered under this Act [said sections], and to install therein such special features, as may be necessary or advisable to make such vessel suitable for commercial operation on trade routes or services or comparable as to commercial utility to other such vessels of the same general type.