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The Florida Senate

CS/CS/SB 512 — Vessels

by Budget Committee; Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee; and Senator Negron

This summary is provided for information only and does not represent the opinion of any Senator, Senate Officer, or Senate Office.

Prepared by: Environmental Preservation and Conservation Committee (EP)

The bill reduces a second degree misdemeanor to a noncriminal infraction for individuals who violate a navigation rule that results in a boating accident but does not cause serious injury or death or rise to the level of reckless operation. The civil penalties are increased up to $500 for a first offense, up to $750 for a second offense, and up to $1000 for a third or subsequent offense.

The bill also provides boaters who can present proof of boater safety course completion and photo identification to operate a motor vessel without waiting to receive the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Boating Identification card in the mail. The Boater Education Certificate must include the student’s first and last name, date of birth, and the date he or she passed the course examination.

If approved by the Governor, these provisions take effect October 1, 2011.
Vote:  Senate 38-0; House 115-1