This bill proposes significant updates to the statutes governing the operation of watercraft in Arizona, specifically focusing on the insurance requirements for watercraft owners who rent their vessels. Under the new provisions, all owners of watercraft for rent must maintain a commercial boat liability policy with specified minimum coverage amounts: $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person, $50,000 for two or more persons, and $20,000 for property damage. Additionally, the bill mandates that these insurance requirements must be met at all times when the watercraft is rented or operated, and it allows the commission to verify compliance through certification.

The bill also introduces penalties for non-compliance, categorizing violations as a class 3 misdemeanor, escalating to a class 1 misdemeanor if the watercraft is involved in an accident. Furthermore, the bill amends existing language regarding record-keeping and operational permissions for boat livery owners, ensuring that they are responsible for maintaining adequate insurance coverage and allowing for the commission to oversee and enforce these requirements. Overall, the proposed changes aim to enhance safety and accountability in the rental of watercraft in Arizona.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-342, 5-371