This bill allows individuals aged 14 to 18 to operate small commercial vessels, specifically those 16 feet in length or less, for the purpose of selling pre-packaged food and non-alcoholic beverages on public waters. The bill specifies that these vessels cannot be used for safety support, incidental transportation of passengers, towing other vessels, refueling, servicing, or towing water skiers or similar devices. It also introduces a definition for "Commercial Passenger Vessel" as any commercial vessel used to carry passengers for hire, including those used by schools, camps, or as restaurants that take the public aboard, and defines "Tidal Waters" as waters affected by the gravitational pulls of the moon and sun.

The bill sets penalties for operating commercial vessels without certification and outlines the requirements for examinations for commercial vessel operators. It mandates that operators must pass a written examination administered by the department and, if operating a commercial passenger vessel 34 feet or greater in length, a practical exam demonstrating proficiency. It also states that licenses to operate a commercial vessel expire after five years and that those with a valid federal license are exempt from the written examination requirements. The written examination must cover the knowledge required for the New Hampshire boating safety certificate and state commercial vessel laws and rules. Operators must score at least 80 percent to receive certification. The provisions do not apply to vessels on tidal waters under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Coast Guard. Section 4 of the act will take effect on January 1, 2025, while the remainder will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 270-E:4
As Amended by the House: 270:30
As Amended by the Senate: 270:30, 270-E:2, 270-E:22
Version adopted by both bodies: 270:30, 270-E:2, 270-E:22
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 270:30, 270-E:2, 270-E:22