The proposed bill, titled "Lucy's Law," aims to enhance boating safety regulations in Florida by amending several sections of the Florida Statutes. Key changes include a revised definition of "livery vessel" and "livery," as well as updated penalties for vessel collisions, accidents, and reckless operation. The bill introduces stricter consequences for leaving the scene of an accident, with penalties escalating based on the severity of the incident, including property damage, injury, or death. Additionally, it mandates the suspension of driver licenses for individuals convicted of boating under the influence or reckless operation, and requires vessel operators to submit to blood tests in cases of death or serious injury, regardless of probable cause.
Other significant amendments include the requirement for all vessel operators to carry specific documents, not just those born after a certain date, and a revised definition of "vessel homicide" that includes the death of an unborn child due to reckless vessel operation. The bill also establishes that a person who operates a vessel must do so in a reasonable and prudent manner, with penalties for violations increasing based on the resulting harm. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: H 289 Filed: 327.02, 327.30, 327.33, 327.353, 327.395, 327.54, 782.072