Colorado Senate Bill SB221

Colorado 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/21/22
• Refer: 4/21/22
• Report Pass: 4/26/22
• Refer: 4/26/22

Caption

Minimum Age Of Motorboat Operators

Impact

If enacted, SB221 would result in significant changes to boating regulations in Colorado, particularly affecting youth under the age of 18. It aims to enhance safety on the waters by ensuring that all boat operators are at least 18 years old unless they meet the educational prerequisites. Proponents argue that the age increase will help prevent accidents and enhance overall boating safety, particularly for inexperienced young operators. This change may also influence how boating education programs are structured and promoted in the state.

Summary

Senate Bill 221 pertains to the minimum age for operating a motorboat in Colorado. Currently, the law prohibits individuals under the age of 16 from operating a motorboat unless they are at least 14 years old and have completed an approved boating safety course. SB221 seeks to raise this minimum age requirement to 18 years, requiring individuals to be at least 18 to operate a motorboat independently without prior education or certification. The bill retains the existing provisions for those aged 14 to 16 who have completed the necessary boating safety course and hold a boating safety certificate.

Contention

The bill has generated debate among legislators regarding its necessity and implications for youth engagement in boating activities. Critics of SB221 express concerns that this new regulation could hinder opportunities for responsible youth to experience boating under guided circumstances, which can be an important educational experience. On the other hand, supporters uphold the view that increasing the minimum age is essential for improving safety standards on Colorado's lakes and rivers, reflecting a broader concern for public safety over recreational access.