Which section of law governs the inspection of fishing vessels by the Coast Guard?

The Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act is the correct choice because it serves as the key piece of legislation governing marine resources and the management of commercial and recreational fisheries in U.S. waters. This act empowers various agencies, including the Coast Guard, to conduct inspections and enforce regulations aimed at sustainable fishing practices. By establishing regulations that control fishing practices, it ensures that fishing vessels comply with federal mandates related to conservation efforts and the responsible harvesting of fishery resources.

In contrast, while the National Marine Fisheries Service Regulations are important in setting specific guidelines and standards for fisheries management, they are derived from the broader framework provided by the Magnuson-Stevens Act. The Ship Safety Act primarily focuses on the safety and operational standards for ships, without a specific emphasis on fishing vessels. The Ocean Fishing Law does not have the same level of authority or relevance in regulating fishing vessel inspections as the Magnuson-Stevens Act does. Thus, the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act directly governs the inspection and enforcement actions that the Coast Guard carries out regarding fishing vessels.