The bill amends existing laws regarding nonresident vessel permits in Washington State, specifically addressing the length requirements for vessels. It stipulates that nonresident vessel owners must obtain a permit if their vessel is at least 30 feet but no more than 300 feet in length, increasing the previous maximum length from 200 feet. Additionally, until May 1, 2026, applications for permits for vessels exceeding 200 feet will be processed as if they were 200 feet long. The bill also outlines the conditions under which a nonresident vessel permit is required and the necessary approvals from the Department of Revenue.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the fee structure for nonresident vessel permits, maintaining a base fee of $25 for vessels owned by nonresident natural persons. For nonresident entities, the fee is tiered based on vessel length, with specific rates for vessels between 30 and 300 feet. Notably, all revenues generated from fees for vessels between 201 and 300 feet will be allocated to a grant program supporting youth swim lessons in underserved communities. The bill establishes an expiration date of January 1, 2029, for the new provisions and sets an effective date of September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 88.02.620, 88.02.640
Substitute Bill: 88.02.620, 88.02.640