CT HB06387

Establishes a tiered vessel registration fee schedule based on overall length, ranging from $7.50 for vessels under 12 feet to $525.00 for vessels 65 feet and over, effective July 1, 2011.

Provides fee reductions for commercial fishing vessels (capped at $25 if owner derives at least 50% of income from fishing) and wooden vessels 15+ years old (50% reduction) or 25+ years old (25% reduction).

Exempts certain vessels from fees including those owned by Coast Guard Auxiliary flotillas (maximum 2 per flotilla), student-built educational vessels, pontoon boats ($40 flat fee), nonprofit-owned vessels ($7.50), and motors under 15 horsepower on vessels under 15 feet ($7.50).

Allows Coast Guard Auxiliary vessels with applicable fees exceeding $180 to pay only the amount over $180, provided the vessel was used in at least three operational activities in the preceding year.

Requires all vessel registration fee revenue collected from November 1 to October 31 annually to be deposited into the General Fund, beginning October 1, 2011, and repeals prior vessel-related fee provisions.