The proposed bill would update current statutes in Arizona by introducing new insurance requirements for watercraft owners who rent or charter their vessels at least four times a year, as well as for boat livery owners and peer-to-peer watercraft sharing programs. Specifically, it mandates that these entities maintain a specified liability insurance policy with minimum coverage amounts of $25,000 for bodily injury to one person, $50,000 for bodily injury to two or more persons, and $20,000 for property damage. Non-compliance would result in penalties classified as a class 3 misdemeanor, escalating to a class 1 misdemeanor if an accident occurs involving the uninsured watercraft.

Additionally, the bill would create definitions and requirements for peer-to-peer watercraft sharing programs, necessitating that they maintain a primary commercial boat liability insurance policy and provide proof of insurance to operators prior to the sharing period. The Arizona Game and Fish Commission would be empowered to require certification of insurance from watercraft and boat livery owners and verify this information with insurers. Overall, these updates aim to enhance safety and accountability in watercraft rentals and sharing practices in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-342, 5-371
House Engrossed Version: 5-342, 5-371
Senate Engrossed Version: 5-301, 5-342, 5-342.01, 5-350, 5-371, 20-255