House Bill 1447 seeks to enhance boating safety and accountability in Florida by amending various sections of the Florida Statutes. Key provisions include the requirement for the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to issue identification cards and driver licenses that display a symbol for a lifetime boater safety identification card, contingent upon the applicant providing relevant documentation. The bill also mandates that applications for these licenses must indicate whether the applicant has obtained a Florida boating safety identification card, and if so, a copy must be submitted. Additionally, it introduces a fee waiver for replacement identification cards when the sole purpose is to include the boater safety designation.

The bill further revises penalties for boating under the influence (BUI) offenses, establishing mandatory ignition interlock devices for certain offenders and increasing fines and prison terms for repeat violations. It requires individuals convicted of specific boating violations to maintain liability insurance and mandates consent for chemical testing if arrested for operating under the influence. The legislation emphasizes boating safety education by requiring individuals born after January 1, 1988, to possess a valid boating safety identification card when operating motorized vessels and expands the curriculum of boating safety courses. Overall, HB 1447 aims to improve public safety on Florida's waterways through enhanced regulations and accountability measures for boat operators.

Statutes affected:
H 1447 Filed: 322.051, 322.14, 327.352, 119.0712, 921.0022