### Question
How does the law define contractor?


### Answer
Under *46 U.S.C. § 53101*, **contractor** is defined as:

> an owner or operator of a vessel that enters into an operating agreement for the vessel with the Secretary under section 53103

#### Citation:
  - *46 U.S.C. § 53101*
  - Heading: **Subtitle V-Merchant Marine > CHAPTER 531-MARITIME SECURITY FLEET**

