Number 5-97 -- 25 July 1997
The 25 June edition of the Auxiliary Manual, COMDINST M16790.1E, Par. 2.D.6.c-(2) defines applicable policy for the use of Coast Guard furnished audio-visual (AV) equipment in Auxiliary Public Education (PE) classes. Commodore Everette L. Tucker, Jr., in a memorandum to the National Board dated 24 July 1997 summarizes his interpretation of this section (intended to limit use of CG-furnished AV equipment in PE classes) as a new requirement, applicable only to AV equipment furnished after 24 July 1997, the date the new manual became effective. Moreover, this policy does not apply to all courses. Specifically, CG-furnished AV equipment (after 24 July 1997) may be used in youth courses and marine environmental courses/presentations, that are provided to the public at no cost for materials and textbooks.
What does this mean? AV equipment issued to Auxiliary units by the CG prior to 24 July 1997 may continue to be used for presentation of PE courses, including those (e.g., BS&S, S&S, ACN/BCN, Boating Safely) for which a fee is charged. Any equipment furnished after the effective date of this policy may be used in non-revenue courses. The motivation for this policy is to level the playing field between the Auxiliary and competing providers of boating safety education by ensuring that there are no hidden subsidies for the PE program.
As a practical matter, Auxiliary units are unlikely to be immediately affected by this policy. However, for future planning purposes, Auxiliary units should examine their course fees to ensure that reserves can be built up to replace present equipment as necessary. New AV equipment for PE courses must be purchased from unit funds.