House Bill 2149 mandates that, starting January 1, 2025, individuals born after January 1, 2007, must complete an approved boating safety education course to operate watercraft propelled by more than 50 horsepower. The Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) is responsible for administering the course, which must be approved by a national association of boating safety, and may approve additional courses. A list of approved courses will be provided on the AZGFD website.

The bill also stipulates that individuals who complete the required boating safety education course will be issued a certificate of completion, which they must carry when operating such watercraft. Additionally, the Director of AZGFD is authorized to enter into reciprocity agreements or certify boating safety education programs from other states that are substantially similar. Those who have completed such programs will be issued a certificate of completion by the Director. The bill does not apply to individuals who are at least 18 years old on the effective date of the act.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-342
House Engrossed Version: 5-342