Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Florida’s Boater Freedom Act
The Floridant/10305101

Trending...
~ Panama City Beach, Florida - Governor Ron DeSantis has officially signed Senate Bill 1388, also known as the Boater Freedom Act, into law today. This new legislation aims to protect the rights of Florida boaters and ensure their enjoyment of the state's waters without undue government interference.

In a statement, Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of Florida's reputation as the boating and fishing capital of the world and how this bill will help maintain that status. "The Boater Freedom Act will ensure that this remains the case," he said.

The bill includes measures to prevent local bans on gas vessels, random vessel safety inspections without probable cause, and directs the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) to create a five-year safety inspection decal program linked to vessel registration.

One of the main goals of this legislation is to protect boaters who prefer gas vehicles from being limited by activist local entities. It also maintains statewide protections for wake speeds, manatee zones, and seagrass areas.

More on The Floridant
Additionally, the bill prohibits boat inspections without probable cause, which were previously conducted as 'safety compliance' checks. It also directs FWC to work with tax collectors to provide a "Florida Freedom Boater" decal at registration. This decal will serve as proof that the boater has met all necessary safety requirements and make enforcement more practical and effective.

This bill is a result of Governor DeSantis' boater freedom initiative proposal announced earlier this year in February. In addition to signing Senate Bill 1388, he also signed House Bill 735 which provides additional funding for public boat ramps, parking, and marina programs through FWC. These funds will ensure greater access to public waters and help Florida maintain its reputation as the boating- and fishing-capital of the world.

With these new laws in place, Florida's boaters can enjoy their time on the water without unnecessary disruptions or limitations. The Boater Freedom Act strikes a balance between ensuring compliance with boating laws and protecting the rights of law-abiding boaters.

Filed Under: Government, State

Show All News | Report Violation

0 Comments

Latest on The Floridant