Connecticut House Bill HB05517

Connecticut 2011 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Refer: 1/20/11

Caption

An Act Concerning The Speed Of Vessels That Travel On The Rivers Of The State.

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 05517 are expected to harmonize the laws governing river travel with those already in place for sailing on lakes. By creating consistent guidelines for vessel speeds across different bodies of water, the bill aims to improve boating safety, support local boating activities, and encourage recreational use of the state's waterways. In regions like Hartford, where boating activity may be more concentrated, the adjustments could enhance the local economy by promoting river use while ensuring that navigational safety and the environment are not compromised.

Summary

House Bill 05517 aims to amend existing regulations concerning the speed of vessels traveling on the rivers of Connecticut. Specifically, the bill proposes that vessels smaller than twenty-two feet in hull length, which are propelled by power, be allowed to travel at speeds exceeding the currently mandated slow, no-wake speeds. The new speed limits would permit these vessels to operate at up to twenty miles per hour on weekdays and thirty miles per hour on weekends when maneuvering within seventy-five feet of any wharf, pier, or dock in the Hartford area, particularly between the railroad bridge and the southern limits of the city. This effort seeks to facilitate more consistent speed regulations for vessels on both rivers and lakes in the state.

Contention

Although the bill promotes increased recreational access to the rivers, there may be concerns regarding environmental impacts and safety. Some stakeholders could argue that allowing higher speeds near wharves and docks increases the risk of accidents or may disrupt marine life in critical habitats. The redefinition of the term 'pier' to exclude bridge abutments in waterways could also lead to discussions about how such changes affect navigational safety and protections for infrastructure. The balance between promoting recreational boating and maintaining safety and environmental integrity will likely be a point of contention among legislators and advocacy groups.