Assembly Bill 1033 aims to regulate wakesurfing in Wisconsin by explicitly defining the activity and applying existing safety regulations for water skiing and aquaplaning to wakesurfing. The bill defines wakesurfing as surfing a motorboat's wake, whether being towed or not, and includes specific requirements for engaging in the activity. These requirements mandate that the motorboat must operate at least 200 feet away from shorelines, docks, and other structures, as well as from any person in the water or occupied vessels. Additionally, individuals wakesurfing must wear a personal flotation device as prescribed by federal regulations. The bill also clarifies that these regulations do not apply to authorized wakesurfing tournaments or competitions.

To enhance boating safety education, the bill amends current law to require that comprehensive boating safety courses include specific instruction on wakesurfing and the operation of motorboats used for this purpose. The penalties for violations of wakesurfing regulations will align with those currently in place for water skiing violations. Notably, the bill renumbers and amends existing statutes to incorporate these changes, ensuring that wakesurfing is recognized and regulated similarly to other water sports.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 30.69(1)(a)(intro.), 30.69, 30.69(3)(d), 30.74(1)(a), 30.74