This bill addresses the issue of abandoned boats in Minnesota by establishing a framework for their removal and disposal. It introduces new provisions under Minnesota Statutes, specifically in chapter 86B, which allow peace officers or designated employees to tag boats that are unlawfully located, inoperative, or unattended. The bill mandates that the tagged boat's registered owner be notified, and if the owner fails to remedy the situation within 14 days, they may face criminal charges and civil penalties. The bill also outlines the process for seizing and forfeiting boats deemed abandoned after the notification period.

Additionally, the bill amends existing statutes, including section 97A.223, to include abandoned boats as property subject to seizure and forfeiture. It establishes penalties for owners who do not comply with the tagging notice and introduces restrictions on licenses and registrations for individuals convicted of failing to remedy the condition of their abandoned boats. These restrictions remain in effect until the individual reimburses the Department of Natural Resources for the costs incurred in enforcing the provisions of this bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 97A.223, 97A.421