Permits towns and cities to regulate all houseboats within their jurisdiction.
If enacted, H7892 will have a significant impact on local governance concerning watercraft regulation. By granting municipalities the authority to establish and enforce their regulations, the bill allows local councils to address specific community needs and environmental concerns related to houseboats. This legislative change is particularly relevant in areas where houseboats may be moored in public waters, and local governance can vary based on regional waterway usage and ecological considerations.
House Bill H7892 seeks to empower towns and cities within Rhode Island to regulate houseboats within their jurisdiction. The bill aims to clarify the authority of municipal councils to enforce local ordinances concerning houseboats, which are defined as any structure built on a floating platform used for personal habitation. Importantly, the legislation includes stipulations that houseboats cannot be operated as floating businesses, ensuring that commercial uses are excluded from this regulatory framework.
Notably, the bill includes specified penalty measures for violations of these new municipal regulations, which could reach up to $750 per day for the first week and increase to $1,000 for subsequent violations. This punitive framework has raised discussion about the appropriateness of the penalties and the broader implications for residents who might face significant fines. While supporters of the bill argue that it is essential for maintaining oversight on the growing number of houseboats, opponents may express concerns regarding the potential for over-regulation and the economic impacts on residents who own them.