The proposed bill, titled the "Boater Freedom Act," introduces several amendments to existing Florida statutes concerning vessels and boating regulations. Notably, it clarifies that "probable cause" does not include actions related to safety or marine sanitation equipment inspections. The bill also 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. Additionally, it establishes that violations of safety and marine sanitation equipment requirements will be treated as secondary offenses, and it restricts officers from boarding vessels without probable cause or the presence of the owner or operator.

Furthermore, the bill mandates the creation of a "Florida Freedom Boater" safety inspection decal, which signifies compliance with safety equipment requirements at the time of vessel registration or renewal. It prohibits state agencies and local governments from restricting the use or sale of watercraft based on their energy source, ensuring that all types of energy-powered vessels are treated equally. The act includes a severability clause, ensuring that if any part of the law is deemed invalid, the remaining provisions will still be enforceable. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1388 Filed: 253.0346, 327.47, 327.56, 327.70