SB423 Summary

• Requires proof of liability insurance before registering or licensing any motor-powered vessel in Alabama, with minimum coverage of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident for bodily injury and $25,000 for property damage.

• Exempts non-motorized vessels, government-owned vessels, self-insured vessels, and licensed dealers holding vessels for sale with blanket liability coverage.

• Establishes Department of Conservation and Natural Resources enforcement authority including random verification of insurance compliance, vessel registration suspension for violations, and reinstatement fees of $100 for first violations and $200 for subsequent violations.

• Creates criminal penalties including Class C misdemeanor for operating uninsured vessels (up to $500 fine for first offense, $1,000 or six months suspension for subsequent offenses) and Class C felony for fraudulent insurance cards ($500-$5,000 fine and/or 1-10 years imprisonment).

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.