Operating-differential subsidies

If the Secretary of Transportation considers it necessary, the Secretary may make a contract with a charterer of a vessel owned by the Secretary for payment of an operating-differential subsidy, on the same terms and conditions, and subject to the same limitations and restrictions, as otherwise provided with respect to payment of operating-differential subsidies to operators of privately-owned vessels. (Source: (Pub. L. 109–304, § 8(c), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1667.))