Last week, the National Marine Manufacturers Association held its second Florida advocacy fly-in where 18 stakeholders from the recreational boating industry met with legislators and decision-makers on policy issues.
The November event came on the heels of what the NMMA called a “highly successful” 2019 legislative session. Most notable was the passage of the Uniform Certificate of Title Ac (HB 475/SB 676), which was championed by Senator Ed Hooper and Representative Jayer Williamson. Similar to Carfax, the legislation strengthens Florida’s vessel titling process to add consumer protections, helping boaters avoid unknowingly buying a stolen or previously damaged vessel.
With the 2020 legislative session pending, last week’s fly-in focused on issues that are expected to be addressed when Florida lawmakers convene early next year, including clean-water initiatives, infrastructure upgrades, fishing access and establishing an office of outdoor recreation. Participants met with nearly three dozen lawmakers to discuss the issues.
Prior to the meetings, industry members head from representative Holly Raschein, who received the Boating Advocate of the Year award. Chief among her accomplishments are passing derelict vessel laws during the 2016 and 2019 legislative sessions and directing the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to assume the dredge and fill permitting program from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
