The Coast Guard can now block boats from parts of Key West waters for paddle races

The US Coast Guard is creating a temporary "safety zone" around Key West, Florida, for the Key West Paddle Classic. This means no vessels or people can enter these specific waters without direct permission from the local Coast Guard Captain.

This rule gives the Coast Guard new power to restrict access to navigable waterways for specific events. While this particular rule is for a paddle race, it sets a precedent for how the Coast Guard can manage public waters for private events. It means local authorities can now easily clear areas for temporary uses, shifting who controls access to public waterways.