The proposed bill, titled the "Boater Freedom Act," aims to amend various sections of Florida Statutes related to vessels and boating regulations. Key changes include redefining "probable cause" to exclude actions related to safety or marine sanitation equipment inspections, thereby limiting the circumstances under which law enforcement officers can board vessels. The bill also introduces the "Florida Freedom Boater" safety inspection decal, which signifies compliance with safety equipment requirements and is issued at the time of vessel registration or renewal. Additionally, it expands the Clean Marine Program to include Clean Marine Manufacturers and authorizes grants for the construction and maintenance of publicly owned parking for boat-hauling vehicles and trailers.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits state agencies and local governments from restricting the use or sale of watercraft based on the energy source used to power them, ensuring that all types of energy sources, including gasoline, diesel, electricity, hydrogen, and solar power, are treated equally. The legislation also establishes that violations of safety and marine sanitation equipment requirements will be considered secondary offenses rather than primary offenses. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes a severability clause to maintain the validity of the remaining provisions if any part of the act is deemed invalid.

Statutes affected:
H 1001 Filed: 253.0346, 327.47, 327.56, 327.70