The bill seeks to improve boating safety regulations in Florida by amending various statutes related to identification cards, driver licenses, and penalties for boating violations. It requires the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to issue identification cards and driver licenses featuring a lifetime boating safety identification card symbol at no extra cost, contingent upon applicants presenting their Florida boating safety identification card or a confirmation receipt from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Additionally, the bill mandates that driver license applications indicate whether the applicant possesses a boating safety identification card.

The legislation also revises penalties for boating offenses, particularly for boating under the influence (BUI), introducing graduated penalties based on the severity of the incident and establishing mandatory minimum sentences for certain violations. It requires ignition interlock devices for individuals convicted of BUI offenses and increases penalties for those refusing chemical tests. The bill expands the definition of vessel homicide to include the killing of an unborn child due to reckless boating and mandates liability insurance for individuals convicted of specific boating violations. Overall, the bill aims to enhance accountability and safety measures for boating activities in Florida, with an effective date set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 58 Filed: 322.051, 322.14, 327.30, 327.352, 327.731, 782.072, 119.0712, 327.70, 327.73