DOT Maint & Repair Reimbursement Prog

Can anyone give me a quick overview of the US Department of Transportation’s Maintenance and Repair Reimbursement Pilot Program? I have been given the task of explaining on Friday whether or not our company should take part in this.

I have a copy of 46 CFR Part 296 in front of me, and it gives some background info on the Maritime Security Program (for which this is a part.) From what I gather, the DOT has changed the way maintenance and repairs are funded and paid for within the last two years, and these are the last few months to take part in the MSP M&R. There seems to be some kind of EPA component to this program also.

My company does a lot of work with military vessels, and we’ve just been plodding along using government credit cards as payment for our work and materials. Will participation in this program significantly change our business with the Coast Guard? Will not participating prevent us from working with them in the future? Anything anyone wants to pass along on this program?