The bill CS/HB 1149 amends Florida Statutes to improve vessel accountability and management, particularly concerning derelict vessels and abandoned property. It redefines the term "owner" to "vessel owner," establishing specific criteria for ownership identification. The legislation introduces penalties for anchoring or mooring vessels at risk of becoming derelict, as determined by law enforcement or Fish and Wildlife officers, and revises the timeframe for vessel owners to demonstrate effective means of propulsion. It also creates a new section for long-term anchoring permits, which must be obtained at no cost and renewed annually, while outlining conditions for compliance and penalties for violations.

Additionally, the bill enhances enforcement mechanisms for boating regulations, allowing the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to adopt rules for implementation and expanding the list of noncriminal violations enforceable through uniform boating citations. It establishes a tiered penalty system for derelict vessels, where first offenses are misdemeanors and subsequent offenses escalate to felonies. The bill clarifies the responsibilities of vessel owners regarding derelict vessels, including the authority of law enforcement to remove and dispose of such vessels, and introduces penalties for owners who fail to cover removal costs. Overall, CS/HB 1149 aims to address issues related to derelict vessels and improve the management of Florida's waters.

Statutes affected:
H 1149 Filed: 327.70, 327.73
H 1149 c1: 327.70, 327.73