46 USC 31102 - Waiver of immunity

U.S Code last checked for updates: May 05, 2024

§ 31102.

Waiver of immunity

(a)

In General.—

A civil action in personam in admiralty may be brought, or an impleader filed, against the United States for—

(1)

damages caused by a public vessel of the United States; or

(2)

compensation for towage and salvage services, including contract salvage, rendered to a public vessel of the United States.

(b)

Counterclaim or Setoff.—

If the United States brings a civil action in admiralty for damages caused by a privately owned vessel, the owner of the vessel, or the successor in interest, may file a counterclaim in personam, or claim a setoff, against the United States for damages arising out of the same subject matter.

(Pub. L. 109–304, § 6(c), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1521.)

cite as: 46 USC 31102