### Question
How does the law define essential vessel?


### Answer
Under *46 U.S.C. § 56501*, **essential vessel** is defined as:

> a vessel that is—


(1)(A) security for a mortgage indebtedness to the United States Government

#### Citation:
  - *46 U.S.C. § 56501*
  - Heading: **Subtitle V-Merchant Marine > Part E-Control of Merchant Marine Capabilities > CHAPTER 565-ESSENTIAL VESSELS AFFECTED BY NEUTRALITY ACT**

