This bill amends existing law to require boat owners, who are not the operators, to notify law enforcement and file an accident report under certain circumstances. Specifically, if the operator is physically or mentally incapable of making a report, or fails or refuses to make the report or provide required information after an accident involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $2,000, the boat owner or their representative must notify a marine patrol officer or other police officer with jurisdiction and make the necessary report. The amendment also requires the operator or owner to furnish any relevant information as required by the department of safety.

The bill further amends the penalties associated with failing to comply with these reporting requirements. Failure to file the required reports or comply with the requirements relating to injury to property, or immediate notification of the incident, will result in a class A misdemeanor for natural persons or a felony for other persons. Non-compliance in situations involving death or personal injury, providing false information, or failing to meet other requirements will be classified as a class B felony. The act is set to take effect on January 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 270:1-a, 270:1-b
As Amended by the House: 270:1-a, 270:1-b
Version adopted by both bodies: 270:1-a, 270:1-b
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 270:1-a, 270:1-b