Texas House Bill HB1466

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to Parks and Wildlife Department procedures for the transfer of ownership of boats or outboard motors; providing penalties; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The impact of HB 1466 is significant as it amends the Parks and Wildlife Code to include explicit procedures and timelines for owners to report changes concerning their vessels. By enforcing a clearer system for ownership transfers and requiring timely notifications, the bill enhances the department's ability to maintain accurate records. This could result in improved safety measures and accountability in boating activities within state waters. However, it also places additional responsibilities on vessel owners, potentially increasing their need to stay informed about compliance requirements.

Summary

House Bill 1466 updates the procedures of the Parks and Wildlife Department related to the transfer of ownership of boats and outboard motors. This legislation mandates that vessel owners notify the department within 20 days of any change in ownership, destruction, or permanent relocation of the vessel outside of Texas. Furthermore, it introduces penalties for failing to comply with these notification requirements. The bill aims to streamline the management of vessel registrations, ensuring better tracking and compliance in the state of Texas.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment around HB 1466 appears to be supportive, especially among those advocating for regulatory efficiency in boating practices. Proponents argue that a standardized process will help reduce instances of unregistered and abandoned vessels, thus promoting responsible ownership. However, there might be concerns among some boat owners regarding the feasibility of meeting the 20-day reporting requirement, which could be seen as an additional burden.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1466 include the potential challenges it imposes on vessel owners, particularly those who may not have immediate access to the necessary documentation or may forget to report changes promptly. Critics might argue that the bill could lead to penalties that disproportionately affect casual or infrequent boaters. Furthermore, the requirement for timely notifications could raise awareness of potential oversight in maintenance, thus prompting a debate about the balance between enforcement and the usability of such regulations for the average user.