HB 7025 Summary: At-Risk Vessels

• Prohibits vessels at risk of becoming derelict from anchoring, mooring, or occupying Florida state waters, with enforcement by Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission or specified law enforcement agencies.

• Establishes four conditions for determining a vessel is at-risk: taking on water without effective dewatering capability, enclosed spaces incapable of being sealed or remaining open to elements, broken loose or in danger of breaking loose from anchor, or left aground/listed/sunk in a state preventing operation.

• Creates noncriminal infraction violations for persons who anchor, moor, or allow at-risk vessels to occupy state waters, with civil penalties of $50 for first offense, $100 for second offense (occurring 30+ days later), and $250 for third or subsequent offense (occurring 30+ days later).

• Allows enforcement through uniform boating citations mailed to registered vessel owners of unattended vessels.

• Exempts vessels moored to private docks or wet slips with owner consent for repair purposes; effective July 1, 2016.