CT SB00193

Requires motor boat owners to provide proof of current general liability insurance from a state-licensed company when applying for or renewing vessel registration with the Commissioner of Motor Vehicles, effective October 1, 2010.

Prohibits the Commissioner from issuing temporary or permanent registration decals and certificates for motor boats unless general liability insurance coverage has been verified.

Maintains existing vessel registration fee schedules based on overall length, ranging from $7.50 for vessels under 12 feet to $525.00 for vessels 65 feet and over.

Preserves existing fee exemptions and reductions for commercial fishing vessels, nonprofit organizations, Coast Guard Auxiliary vessels, and historically significant wooden vessels.

Establishes penalties for operating unregistered vessels or misusing registration numbers, with fines of $25-$200 for first offense and $200-$500 for subsequent offenses.