The proposed bill, HB2149, mandates that individuals born after January 1, 2007, must complete an approved boating safety education course before operating a watercraft powered by more than 50 horsepower, effective January 1, 2025. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) will administer these courses, which must be approved by a national boating safety association, and will also have the authority to approve additional courses. A list of these approved courses will be made available on the AZGFD's website.

Additionally, individuals who complete the course will receive a certificate of completion, which they must carry while operating the watercraft. The bill allows the AZGFD director to enter into reciprocity agreements with other states for similar boating safety programs and to issue certificates to those who have completed such programs elsewhere. This new legislation replaces the existing provisions regarding age restrictions for operating watercraft and introduces a structured educational requirement for younger boat operators.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-342
House Engrossed Version: 5-342