Alabama 2024 Regular Session

Alabama House Bill HB375

Introduced
3/21/24  
Introduced
3/21/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
3/21/24  
Engrossed
4/9/24  
Report Pass
4/3/24  
Refer
4/11/24  
Engrossed
4/9/24  
Report Pass
4/18/24  
Refer
4/11/24  
Enrolled
5/8/24  
Report Pass
4/18/24  
Passed
5/16/24  
Enrolled
5/8/24  
Passed
5/16/24  

Caption

Vessels, Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification requirement, provided

Impact

The enactment of HB375 will require nonresident operators to obtain a certification that aligns with the safety standards established for Alabama residents. This change is significant as it establishes a uniform baseline for vessel operation safety across the board, potentially reducing accidents and ensuring a more controlled environment on Alabama waters. The bill specifies that newly established residents must procure certification within 30 days of moving to Alabama, creating a clear pathway for newcomers to comply with local laws regarding boating.

Summary

House Bill 375 introduces the Nonresident Alabama Boater Safety Certification requirement for individuals who are not residents but wish to operate vessels on Alabama waters. This legislative measure aims to enhance boating safety by ensuring that all operators have a basic understanding of safe boating practices. The bill outlines specific conditions under which nonresidents may be exempt from obtaining the certification, including existing certifications from their home state or country, and stipulates penalties for violations of this requirement. Additionally, the bill provides provisions for boat rentals and test drives that exempt individuals from requiring certification during those specific activities.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB375 appears to be supportive among legislative members who prioritize public safety on state waters. The bill passed with a unanimous vote in the House, highlighting a strong bipartisan agreement on the necessity of robust safety measures. However, some discussions raised concerns about the implications for nonresidents who might find the certification process burdensome or unclear, which may affect tourism and recreational boating activities in Alabama.

Contention

Notable points of contention focus on the balance between ensuring safety and accommodating the influx of nonresidents engaging in recreational boating. Critics of the certification requirement argue that it may deter visitors who are unfamiliar with Alabama’s specific regulations. These discussions emphasize a tension between enforcing safety protocols and maintaining Alabama’s appeal as a recreational destination for boaters. Ultimately, the success of this bill will hinge on its implementation and the public's understanding of the certification process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AL HB490

Vessels, operation of watercraft, boater safety certification requirements, further provided, Secs. 33-5-51, 33-5-52, 33-5-72 am'd.

AL HB358

Relating to vessels; to amend Sections 33-5-3, 33-5-4, 33-5-5, 33-5-6, 33-5-7, 33-5-8, 33-5-10, 33-5-12, 33-5-15, 33-5-16, 33-5-20, 33-5-21, 33-5-22, 33-5-23, 33-5-25, 33-5-26, 33-5-27, 33-5-28, 33-5-30, 33-5-31, 33-5-32, 33-5-34, 33-5-35, 33-5-36, 33-5-51, 33-5-52, 33-5-53, 33-5-54, 33-5-55, 33-5-56, 33-5-58, 33-5-59, 33-5-60, 33-5-61, 33-5-62, 33-5-63, 33-5-64, 33-5-65, 33-5-66, 33-5-67, 33-5-68, 33-5-69, 33-5-70, 33-5-71, 33-5-72, 33-5-73, 33-5-74, 33-5-75, 33-5-77, 33-5-79, 33-5-81, Code of Alabama 1975, to establish the classification of boating violation as a recognized criminal offense classification and to reclassify various criminal offenses as boating violations and further provide for criminal penalties; to further provide for the requirement to report certain boating accidents; to further provide for the general operational and equipment requirements of a vessel; to further provide for vessel horsepower requirements and the use of engine cut-off switches; to establish the uniform electronic boating traffic ticket and provide for its issuance; to amend Sections 12-12-50, 12-12-51, 12-12-52, 12-12-55, and 12-19-179, Code of Alabama 1975, to provide the district court with jurisdiction over boating violations and further provide for the court costs and fees for boating violations; to amend Section 41-27-6, Code of Alabama 1975, to rename the Marine Police Division within the Department of Public Safety to the Marine Patrol Division; to make nonsubstantive, technical revisions to update the existing code language to current style; to repeal Sections 33-5-22.1, 33-5-29, 33-5-33, and 33-5-78, Code of Alabama 1975; and in connection therewith would have as its purpose or effect the requirement of a new or increased expenditure of local funds within the meaning of Section 111.05 of the Constitution of Alabama of 2022.

AL S1388

Vessels

AL HB148

Motor vehicles; nonresident mandatory insurance requirements, further provided

AL HB375

Relating to sales and use tax; to amend Section 40-23-4, as amended by Acts Act 2022-199, 2022-291, 2022-293, and 2022-373 of the 2022 Regular Session, Code of Alabama 1975, to exempt the purchase of gun safes and gun safety devices from sales and use tax.

AL H1001

Vessels

AL HB1258

Boats and other vessels; update numbering requirements for compliance with federal regulations.

AL HB1158

Relative to establishing an exception to vessel registration, defining commercial passenger vessel, and regulating written examinations and certifications for operating commercial vessels.

AL SB1372

TPT; exemptions; motor vehicles; nonresidents

AL H3362

Relative to boater safety to be known as the David Hanson Act

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