The bill seeks to improve boating safety regulations in Florida by implementing several key amendments to existing laws. It requires the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to issue identification cards and driver licenses that display a lifetime boating safety identification card symbol for eligible applicants, at no additional cost. The bill also mandates that applications for these cards indicate whether the applicant possesses a boating safety identification card. Additionally, it revises penalties for boating-related offenses, introducing graduated penalties for incidents such as leaving the scene of an accident and boating under the influence (BUI), along with mandatory minimum sentences for BUI offenses resulting in death.

Moreover, the legislation emphasizes the importance of accountability and rehabilitation for offenders by mandating ignition interlock devices for certain BUI convictions, requiring community service, and ensuring participation in substance abuse education and treatment programs. It also expands the definition of vessel homicide to include the killing of an unborn child due to reckless vessel operation and establishes stricter regulations for vessel operators, including mandatory liability insurance and consent to chemical testing for alcohol and drugs. The bill aims to enhance public safety on Florida's waterways by promoting compliance with boating laws and reducing incidents of boating under the influence. The changes are set to take effect on 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