Relative to possession and presentation of safe boater education certificates.
Impact
The enactment of HB1542 is expected to reduce the number of individuals seeking replacement certificates, as possessing an electronic copy could lessen the reliance on physical documents. Given that there are about 3,000 replacement certificate requests annually, the state could see a decrease in revenue estimated at around $30,000 per year due to fewer replacements being requested. This dynamic may change how resources are allocated within the Navigation Safety Fund, which will see reduced expenditures related to the issuance of replacement cards.
Summary
House Bill 1542 (HB1542) seeks to modernize the possession and presentation requirements for safe boater education certificates in the state. With the bill, individuals operating motorized vessels with more than 25 horsepower will be allowed to present electronic copies of their safety certificates to marine patrol officers, in addition to physical copies. This amendment to RSA 270-D:11 aims to make it easier for boater education certificate holders to comply with enforcement without the need for a hard copy certificate at all times.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB1542 may include concerns about the effectiveness and security of electronic documentation during interactions with marine patrol. Opponents might argue that the transition to digital forms could lead to difficulties in verification or misuse of certification. However, proponents of the bill would counter that allowing for electronic copies represents a modern approach to regulatory compliance, especially as digital technologies continue to integrate into everyday practices.
Additional_notes
Overall, HB1542 marks a significant shift towards digital solutions in boater safety education. If passed, the implications of allowing electronic certificates will likely influence both public behavior and enforcement methods utilized by marine safety officers, encouraging a streamlined approach to boating regulations.