The bill amends Section 46-22-4 of the General Laws regarding the registration of motorboats, introducing new provisions for an additional fee structure. Specifically, it inserts a requirement for motorboat owners to pay an additional biennial fee of five dollars ($5.00), or two dollars and fifty cents ($2.50) if they opt for annual registration. These fees will be deposited into a restricted account dedicated to freshwater preservation, as outlined in the newly added Section 46-33-3. The bill also maintains the existing registration fee schedule based on the overall length of the motorboat, with specific provisions for nonprofit organizations and vessels over thirty feet.
Furthermore, the bill establishes a new restricted receipt account known as the "Rhode Island lake management program fund," which will be used to support the implementation of the freshwater lake management program. The act is designed to enhance funding for environmental management efforts related to freshwater resources. The changes will take effect upon passage of the bill.
Statutes affected: 5341: 46-22-4