The Coast Guard, working with its domestic and International Maritime Organization partners, submitted a proposal to IMO to amend Annex VI to allow vessels with a Tier II compliant engine to enter and depart the North American or Caribbean emission control areas provided the vessel was proceeding to or departing from a shipyard or other repair facility located in the ECAs. The amendments are expected to enter into force 1 Jan. 1, 2019.
Source: USCG
Link: 3/8/2018: MARPOL ANNEX VI – Removal of unintended impact to shipyards by North American Emissions Control Area implementation